Smoke Alarms

Dwellings Being Sold, Leased, or an Existing Lease Renewed

From 1 January 2027 When replacing smoke alarms, they must be of a photoelectric type which complies with Australian Standard (AS) 3786-2014. Existing smoke alarms manufactured more than ten years ago must be replaced. (Note: Smoke alarms should have the date of manufacture stamped on them.) Smoke alarms that do not operate when tested must be replaced immediately. Existing hardwired smoke alarms that need replacement must be replaced with a hardwired smoke alarm. Smoke alarms in all dwellings must:

1. Be photoelectric (AS 3786-2014); and
2. Not also contain an ionisation sensor; and
3. Be less than 10 years old; and
4. Operate when tested; and
5. Be interconnected with every other smoke alarm in the dwelling so all activate together.

Smoke alarms must be installed on each storey:

1. In each bedroom; and
2. In hallways which connect bedrooms and the rest of the dwelling; or
3. If there is no hallway, between the bedrooms and other parts of the storey; and
4. If there are no bedrooms on a storey at least one smoke alarm must be installed in the most likely path of travel to exit the dwelling.

Smoke alarms must be either hardwired or powered by a non-removable 10 year battery, or a combination of both may be allowed.