A complete CPD guide for engineers by state [Updated 2025]

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is a cornerstone of professional growth and recognition for engineers in Australia. As engineering disciplines diversified and specialised, it became clear that traditional education alone could not adequately equip professionals with the breadth and depth of knowledge needed to excel in their roles over a lifetime.

Today, CPD is a testament to the engineering community’s commitment to excellence and continuous improvement. Beyond maintaining professional licenses and certifications, it’s a strategic investment in career advancement and personal growth.

This article is designed to provide engineers and human resource professionals in the field with a comprehensive understanding of CPD requirements.

Why engineers need CPD

CPD activities are designed to extend or update an engineer’s knowledge, skills, and judgment in their area of practice. This ensures they remain technically proficient and can adapt to new technologies and methodologies. By enhancing their skills, engineers can better contribute to their workplaces, leading by example and influencing others positively.

Ultimately, CPD activities enable engineers to better serve the community by applying their skills to solve real-world problems and contribute to societal development.

National CPD requirement for engineers

Engineers Australia, a leading professional body for engineers, primarily sets the national mandate for CPD in Australia. This mandate requires engineers to complete a minimum of 150 hours of structured CPD activities over a three-year period to maintain their professional credentials, such as Chartered status and inclusion in the National Engineers Register.

Specific requirements include:

• At least 50 hours must relate directly to the engineer’s area of practice.
• At least 10 hours should focus on risk management.
• At least 15 hours must address business and management skills. 

The remaining hours can cover a range of activities relevant to the engineer’s career, such as private study, service to the profession, or preparing and presenting materials for courses and conferences.

Additionally, engineers must maintain accurate records of their CPD activities to demonstrate compliance during registration renewal.

CPD requirements for engineers per state

While Engineers Australia provides a national framework, some states may have additional or slightly different requirements. The national CPD requirements serve as a baseline, ensuring that engineers across Australia maintain consistent professional development. 

State-specific requirements may add layers of compliance or focus on local industry needs, but they typically do not contradict the national standards.

Engineers in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

• Hours required: 150 hours over a three-year period for full-time or part-time engineers; 90 hours for those who have taken a career break.
• Specific requirements:
  • At least 10 hours of training in sustainability principles and practices.

Engineers in Queensland

• Hours required: 150 hours over a three-year period.
• Specific requirements:
  • At least 75% (112.5 hours) must be technical CPD, with a maximum of 25% (37.5 hours) for non-technical CPD.
  • At least 1 hour of non-technical CPD on ethics and risk management.

Engineers in Victoria

• Hours required: 150 hours for full-time engineers, 90 hours for part-time or those who have taken a career break.
• Specific requirements:
  • At least 33% of CPD hours must relate to technical matters relevant to the professional’s area of engineering expertise.

Engineers in other Australian states

Other states, such as New South Wales, South Australia, Western Australia, Tasmania, and the Northern Territory, generally follow the national guidelines set by Engineers Australia.