Under the automatic mutual recognition (AMR) scheme, if you are registered in one state or territory, you can work in another without applying for a new registration in the ACT.
To be eligible under the AMR scheme, the interstate registration (other than Queensland) that you intend on using to work in the ACT must be issued in the same state or territory as either your principal place of residence or your principal place of business (this is known as your ‘home state’).
Professional engineers registered in Queensland cannot work in the ACT under AMR, as Queensland is not currently participating in the AMR scheme. Likewise, ACT registered engineers cannot work in Queensland under AMR.
There is no application process or registration fees for AMR. However, you will need to notify Access Canberra if you plan to provide professional engineering services in the ACT under AMR. Notifications can be made via the AMR notification form. To fill out the form, you will need an ACT Digital Account. The form will also ask you to attach a copy of your home state registration.
After you submit the AMR notification form, you will receive Automatic Deemed Registration (ADR) and can commence providing services in the ACT under your home state registration. Access Canberra will validate your information within 10 days of your notification. Your details will appear on the AMR public register once validated.
Note: a person providing professional engineering services under AMR, can only perform the activities in the ACT that they are registered to do in their home state or territory. This rule helps protect both workers and the public.
Engineering registration schemes in some states and territories within Australia only cover engineering services in the building and construction industry. If you intend on providing services outside of this industry, you will require an ACT registration to perform these services in the ACT.
If you choose to provide professional engineering services in the ACT under AMR, you are required to comply with ACT laws, including but not limited to the Professional Engineers Act 2023.
Note: Professional engineers in the ACT do not require a Working with Vulnerable People registration.
