Australia's mutual recognition system was introduced to improve labour mobility and productivity. In theory, it allows workers who are registered or licensed in one state or territory to obtain the same credentials in other jurisdictions without having to go through a full application process. In practice, however, the system has not achieved the expected results.

As part of the push to improve productivity and address current skills gaps and housing supply shortages, the Australian government, together with the states and territories, have tasked the National Competition Council with a review of the mutual recognition schemes.

As an approved assessment entity for professional engineers in Queensland, Victoria, the ACT and Western Australia, AIRAH has provided feedback on mutual recognition for professional engineers. We have also provided feedback on mutual recognition for HVAC&R technicians, based on input from our members.

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