WA moves to online trades licensing

The Western Australian government plans to move the licensing and registration procedure for more than 40 occupations online over the next two years, to streamline the process and cut costs for taxpayers.

The state’s department of commerce is transferring from a paper-based to an online licensing system for occupations including electricians, gasfitters, plumbers, builders, real estate agents, motor vehicle dealers and repairers.

As well as applications, the new system will support electronic payments and the ability for licensees to instantly update their information, according to Commerce Minister Michael Mischin.

“Electrical contractors and gasfitters will benefit from being able to submit their notices of completion online, saving the industry about $1 million annually and up to 25 minutes a job. More than 300,000 notices are lodged annually,” he said.

“Another red tape reduction initiative is AssociationsOnline, where more than 18,000 associations and clubs in WA can now interact online and submit annual information statements, update details, download forms and lodge applications any time of the day. Also planned is a change to the licensing framework around employment agents, which will save $409,000 in fees over three years.”

He said the government will introduce a Bill to introduce further licensing changes if the government is re-elected.

The government has also announced it has expanded the DoTDirect online service to allow the processing of boat registration payments, opening up online registration to nearly 100,000 recreational vehicles.

“Access to DoTDirect has provided registered boat owners with a fast, convenient and safe way to pay their registration and update all of their boat details online,” Transport Minister Bill Marmion said.

“Use of emerging technologies to reduce red tape provides more choice to West Australians and saves both the customer and the government time and money in administrative costs.”

Image courtesy Marko Mikkonen under CC