Updated 5 November 2026. The requirements introduced from January 2017 have been phased in over ten years.
Current smoke alarm requirements for Queensland dwellings
Dwellings being sold, leased or re-leased must already meet the interconnected photoelectric smoke alarm requirements. All remaining existing Queensland dwellings must comply by 1 January 2027.
Required alarm features and locations
- Alarms must be photoelectric, comply with AS 3786-2014, and contain no ionisation sensor.
- Each required alarm must operate when tested, be less than ten years past its manufacture date, and be interconnected with the other required alarms so they sound together.
- Alarms must be hardwired or powered by a non-removable ten-year battery. An existing hardwired alarm must be replaced with a hardwired photoelectric alarm.
- Install alarms on each storey, in every bedroom and in hallways connecting bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling. Where there is no hallway, they are required between bedrooms and other parts of the storey. On a storey without bedrooms, an alarm is required in the most likely exit route.
Installation and replacement
Faulty or expired alarms need replacement. A licensed electrician must install hardwired alarms. Check the Queensland Fire Department’s current smoke alarm guidance for your property’s requirements and the installation and placement advice. This domestic alarm guidance does not replace a building’s separate common-area fire safety requirements.
Sunstate Strata provides Body Corporate administrative support. Technical assessment and installation should be arranged with appropriately qualified professionals.