Electrical Safety Checks in Melbourne

In Victoria, all homes must have a smoke alarm on every level. If built before August 1, 1997 they may be battery powered. If built or majorly renovated after then, they must be connected to mains supply. Homes constructed or major renovation after 1st May 2014 are required to have interconnected alarms fitted.

1. In domestic/residential installations:
   a. The number of circuits protected by one RCD shall not exceed three
   b. Where there is more than one final sub-circuit, a minimum of two RCDs shall be installed
   c. All final sub-circuits shall be RCD protected
   d. The RCD shall be installed at the switchboard from where the final sub-circuit originates
   e. RCD protection is not required where only repairs are undertaken
2. Non-domestic (commercial) installations:
   a. Socket outlet and lighting circuits ≤ 32 amps require RCD protection
   b. Unless the wiring has additional mechanical protection, the RCDs are to be installed at the switchboard from where the final sub-circuit originates
   c. RCD protection is not required where:
   i. Only repairs are undertaken
   ii. Disconnection of the circuit would create a greater danger (traffic lights)
   iii. The final sub-circuit is used for specific equipment where tripping is unacceptable, provided that the outlet is in a position not likely to be accessed and is clearly marked
3. Alterations and switchboard replacements (all installations):
   a. If an alteration to an existing circuit or a switchboard replacement is undertaken, RCD protection is required
   b. Where socket outlets are added to an existing circuit, the RCD need only be installed at the commencement of the new additional wiring
   c. Additions to existing lighting circuits without RCD protection do not require RCDs to be fitted
   d. Where all of the circuit protection on a switchboard is replaced, RCD protection is required
   e. Repairs only to a circuit do not require RCD protection to be installed. This includes the changing of a GPO from a single to a multi-point

No, You don’t not require and earth cable to be connected or present at every light fittings, you only require an earth at a light fitting if the fitting is not double insulated or if it has an metallic conductive outer casing.

The Residential Tenancies Regulations 2021 states that rental providers must ensure that an electrical safety check of all electrical installations and fittings in the premises (in accordance with Section 4 of AS/NZS 3019 (“Electrical installations — Periodic assessment”) is conducted every two years.

Section 4 of AS/NZS 3019 also states the inspection of electrical equipment shall include the visual inspections listed in Section 3 of the standard.

Therefore the electrical safety checks shall include:

Section 3 Verification by basic visual inspection
Section 4 Verification by visual inspection and limited testing.

Smoke alarm Inspections must be done every 12 Months.