The new regulations allow workers from certain industries to operate without a separate licence
The government of New South Wales (NSW) has passed new legislation expanding Automatic Mutual Recognition (AMR) to additional industries, making it easier for qualified workers from other Australian states to operate in NSW without obtaining a separate licence.
Effective July 1, conveyancers, real estate and property agents, and automotive industry workers from interstate will be able to work in NSW under AMR. The scheme, introduced in 2021, is designed to reduce administrative barriers for licensed professionals moving between states, cutting red tape and eliminating the need for duplicate licence applications and fees.
While simplifying workforce mobility, the government emphasised that consumer protections remain. Under the expanded AMR framework, interstate licensees must meet mandatory compensation fund obligations while working in NSW.
The legislation also grants NSW Fair Trading the authority to calculate and collect compensation fund contributions from conveyancers, property and stock agents, and motor dealers and repairers. These measures ensure that consumers have access to financial compensation as a last resort if they experience an economic loss due to an interstate operator’s actions.
From mid-2025, the newly added occupations will join electrical trades, tow truck operators, construction trades, and traffic control workers, already covered under AMR. The scheme extension broadens access to skilled labour across various industries, aiming to address workforce shortages while maintaining regulatory standards.
NSW Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong highlighted the benefits of the updated AMR laws for workers, businesses, and consumers alike. “This legislation recognises the licensed interstate workers we need and supports workers and businesses across Australia by removing red tape and reducing costs, allowing NSW businesses access to a larger employment market,” Chanthivong said in a statement.
He further emphasised that the expanded scheme allows for greater worker mobility across industries with similar national standards while continuing to protect consumer rights.
