From 1 July 2025, the units of competency required to become a demolition supervisor are changing. This follows consultation with industry and stakeholders in 2024 and 2025 on demolition supervisor training.
The changes will make sure training for demolition supervisors better reflects current industry needs while protecting workers and the community.
New training requirements
The required number of units has changed from 11 to 10. This includes 8 existing units and 2 new ones.
Units removed
Three units have been removed and will no longer be required because the subject matter is covered in other units or is no longer relevant. For more information on why these units were removed, refer to the Consultation Outcomes paper.
Current demolition supervisors
Current demolition supervisors will not be required to take any new or additional units of competency. Their training will remain valid.
Demolition supervisor applicants
Demolition supervisor applicants who complete the currently required 11 units of competency by 1 July 2025, have until 30 June 2026 to apply to become a demolition supervisor.
If they apply after 30 June 2026, they will be required to complete the two new units of competency.
More information
Visit the SafeWork NSW website to find more information on demolition training requirements.
Demolition licensing regulations in NSW - here’s what you need to know (the detail)
The Work Health and Safety Amendment (Demolition Licensing) Regulation 2022 has introduced important reforms to the regulation of demolition activities in New South Wales (NSW). Made under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, these changes aim to strengthen safety standards, ensure workers are appropriately licensed, and improve the quality of supervision on demolition sites.
What is considered licensed demolition work?
Under the amended regulation, demolition work requiring a license includes:
- The demolition of any structure (or part of a structure) that is loadbearing or otherwise impacts the structural integrity of a building and is at least six meters high.
- Demolition involving a chemical installation.
- Demolition using explosives.
Note: Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) are offering this training at accessible rates. This helps employers avoid selectively training only some workers — an approach that can leave others exposed to compliance risks.
Key changes to demolition regulations
- Licensing Requirements: All workers conducting licensed demolition work must now hold the appropriate demolition license.
- Mandatory Training: Workers must complete relevant training programs to ensure they meet competency and safety standards.
- Qualified Supervision: Demolition work must be supervised by an individual with the appropriate qualifications and experience.
Important: Supervisors who are officially named and authorised by SafeWork NSW, and operate under a valid demolition license number, are exempt from the mandatory training requirement.
Demolition license categories
The amended regulation defines two license types:
Unrestricted Demolition License: Permits all forms of demolition, including:
- Structures over 15 meters in height
- Chemical installations
- Demolition involving explosives
- Use of mobile cranes over 100 tons
Restricted Demolition License: Covers general demolition activities but excludes:
- Explosives
- Chemical installations
- Structures over 15 meters
Note: Under the Automatic Mutual Recognition (AMR) scheme, holders of certain interstate demolition licenses can work in NSW but must notify the regulator before commencing work.
Notification and compliance requirements
Businesses undertaking licensed demolition work must:
- Notify SafeWork NSW in writing at least five (5) business days before starting high-risk demolition, including:
- Structures above six meters
- Use of load-shifting equipment on suspended floors
- Demolition involving explosives
- Ensure that an authorised supervisor is present at all times during licensed demolition activities.
- Adhere to all Safety Management Plans (SMP) and maintain detailed Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) to remain compliant.
Members with questions are encouraged to contact the Master Builders Safety department on safety@mbansw.asn.au or 02 8586 3555.