28 December 2023
As the New Year approaches, SafeWork NSW is urging the public to leave firework displays to the experts. Those found to be in possession of fireworks without a licence or security clearance can face a fine of up to $38,500, 12 months imprisonment, or both.
Licensed pyrotechnicians or firework single use licence (FSUL) holders are reminded they must submit a notification to SafeWork at least seven days before they wish to hold their display.
Licensed pyrotechnicians and FSUL holders must also notify the following:
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The local council at least seven working days prior to the display
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The local area commander of police (and/or local police) at least two working days before the display
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The local Fire and Rescue NSW (and/or Rural Fire Service, where applicable) at least two working days before the display
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NSW Water Police, Roads and Maritime Services (RMS), Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and Airservices Australia at least two working days before the display.
If any of the above agencies object to the display and the pyrotechnician cannot address those objections the display cannot go ahead.
SafeWork also emphasises the importance of managing nearby risks posed by environmental conditions such as bushfire dangers as well as providing easy access to emergency services should they be needed.
Operators must also establish exclusion zones at every display in accordance with the Operational Conditions for Pyrotechnicians and Fireworks single use licenses.
SafeWork is continuing to investigate a December 2022 incident where several people were injured during a public fireworks display in Allambie Heights.
Quotes to be attributed to Head of SafeWork NSW Trent Curtin:
“Fireworks are not to be treated as a toy. Last year we saw nine people, including several children, in need of treatment from emergency services following an incident involving fireworks.
“The message is simple, SafeWork will be taking a zero-tolerance approach to those found in possession of illegal fireworks these holidays, and if you are caught you run the risk of a fine as well as jail time.
“With 120 notifications already received by SafeWork for firework displays across the state, we are encouraging people to get out and enjoy these planned events with members of their local community instead of putting on your own illegal fireworks shows at home.”
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