The ARCTick licence scheme is at record levels with significant increases in the number of permits issued to technicians and businesses.
In the 2023–24 financial year alone, the Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) recorded a net increase of over 12,618 permits, comprising 10,692 individual Refrigerant Handling Licences (RHLs) and 1,926 business related Refrigerant Trading Authorisations (RTAs).
The figures are a clear indicator of robust and sustained sector growth.
Recent data suggests that the industry is on track for another strong year in 2024–25, with projections exceeding 12,000 new licences and business registrations.
More than 65 per cent of new refrigerant handling licence holders this year are under the age of 35.
The data shows the average age across the licensed workforce is in decline, a promising indicator for the industry's future pipeline of skilled professionals.
ARC CEO Glenn Evans described the growth as a strong indicator of the industry’s promising future.
He said it was encouraging to see more professionals entering a field that plays such a vital role in sustainability, safety, and innovation.
“It’s great to see industry numbers growing every day, with the new generation joining the climate change sector,” he said. “The profile of our industry is growing at an accelerated rate.”
This consistent increase in qualified professionals and businesses not only reflects a healthy and expanding RAC industry, but also underscores the importance of preventing emissions of refrigerants while working on RAC equipment as part of Australia’s transition to a net-zero future.