Updated July 2026 by Milcom Institute (RTO 6859).
What is ACMA open cabling registration?
Open cabling registration is the licence that legally allows you to install, maintain and modify customer premises telecommunications cabling in Australia. It is required under the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) cabling provider rules and is issued by accredited registrars — not by ACMA directly. “Open” registration covers all customer cabling work, unlike the narrower Restricted and Lift registrations.
Who needs a cabling licence?
Anyone connecting fixed cabling to the telecommunications network: telephone and data cablers, NBN technicians, security and alarm installers, fire panel technicians and electricians who touch phone or data cabling. Working unregistered attracts significant penalties.
How do I get my open cabling registration? (4 steps)
- Complete the Open Registration course. The nationally recognised ACMA Open Registration course covers four units of competency (ICTWHS204, ICTTEN208, ICTCBL246, ICTCBL247) in up to 4 days, from $775.
- Gather your work experience evidence. Registrars require evidence of 360 hours of cabling work experience. This can be supervised work logged before, during or after training.
- Apply through a registrar. Submit your statement of attainment and experience evidence to an ACMA-accredited registrar such as TITAB or ARCS, and meet WHS requirements.
- Add endorsements as needed. Structured, coaxial, optical fibre, aerial and underground endorsements extend what your licence lets you install.
How much does a cabling licence cost?
Training from $775 (blended) with Milcom Institute, plus the registrar’s application fee (varies by registrar, typically around $100–$200) and periodic renewal. Endorsements cost from $225 each, or save with the combined endorsement pack ($995) or the full ACMA Cablers Package.
What is the 360 hours experience requirement?
Registrars require 360 hours of practical cabling experience before full open registration is granted. If you’re new to the industry, you can work under the supervision of a registered cabler to accumulate hours — many students start work immediately after training on a provisional basis. The process is explained in detail during the Milcom course.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the course take?
Up to 3 days blended (theory online, practical in class) or 4 days face-to-face.
Do electricians need a separate cabling licence?
Yes. An electrical licence does not authorise telecommunications cabling — a separate ACMA registration is required.
Which endorsements should I get?
For NBN and modern data work: structured + coaxial + optical fibre. For civil/outside plant work add pit and pipe, cable hauling and aerial endorsements.
How long is registration valid?
Registration is renewed periodically with your registrar (typically 1–3 year terms depending on registrar options).
Start your cabling career: book the Open Registration course or call 1300 369 320 for advice on the right pathway.
