AS1851

​Deferral of AS 1851 Implementation and APFS Accreditation Scheme: What You Need to Know

The Australian fire protection industry is currently navigating two significant regulatory shifts: the move towards mandatory compliance with AS 1851 – Routine Service of Fire Protection Systems and Equipment, and the introduction of the Accredited Practitioner (Fire Safety) [APFS] scheme. However, recent announcements have deferred both implementations, allowing more time for industry readiness and compliance planning.
In this blog post, we’ll break down what these changes mean, the new timelines, and how building owners, facility managers, and fire safety professionals should respond.

What Is AS 1851?AS 1851 sets out the procedures for the routine inspection, testing, preventative maintenance, and record-keeping for fire protection systems and equipment. Although not law by itself, it is widely referenced in state regulations and considered the benchmark for maintaining operational fire safety systems.
Compliance with AS 1851 supports the issuance of Annual Fire Safety Statements (AFSS) and contributes to building occupants' safety through proper maintenance of essential safety measures.

What Is the APFS Accreditation Scheme?The Accredited Practitioner (Fire Safety) or APFS scheme is a regulatory initiative designed to raise the competency and accountability of individuals who assess fire safety measures in buildings. Under this scheme, only practitioners who are officially accredited can endorse fire safety certificates and statements, especially those involving performance-based designs.
APFS accreditation ensures practitioners:

• Demonstrate technical competence and experience,
• Understand the legislative and standard-based context (including AS 1851),
• Meet continuing professional development (CPD) obligations, and
• Comply with ethical and professional conduct standards.

Key Deferral Dates and Revised Timelines🕓 AS 1851 – Mandatory Implementation

• Original Enforcement Date: 13 February 2025
• New Enforcement Date: 13 February 2026
• Reason for Deferral: The NSW Government deferred the implementation by 12 months to give building owners, service providers, and practitioners adequate time to adopt and standardize practices based on AS 1851.

🕓 APFS Requirement for Fire Safety Certificates

• Original Enforcement Date: 13 February 2025
• New Enforcement Date: 13 February 2027
• Reason for Deferral: A 24-month extension has been granted to allow for a broader rollout of the APFS accreditation scheme, ensuring that there are sufficient accredited professionals available to meet demand.

What This Means for the IndustryThese deferrals do not signal a step back from improved safety standards—they’re a strategic move to ensure the industry is equipped to meet the upcoming requirements effectively. Stakeholders should use this time to prepare for the transition.
🔧 For Building Owners and Facility Managers:

• Continue maintaining systems in accordance with AS 1851 as best practice.
• Begin transitioning to accredited APFS practitioners.
• Review existing maintenance contracts and service records for compliance alignment.

📚 For Fire Safety Practitioners:

• Seek APFS accreditation through the relevant professional bodies (e.g., FPA Australia).
• Stay informed about legislative changes.
• Support clients with educational resources and compliance planning.

Final ThoughtsThe deferral of AS 1851’s enforcement to February 2026 and the APFS scheme’s full implementation to February 2027 offers the fire protection industry a crucial buffer. It’s a chance to train, upskill, and align systems with best-practice standards—before compliance becomes mandatory.
Staying ahead of these timelines will not only ensure legal compliance but also reinforce your commitment to life safety and professional excellence.
Need support with AS 1851 implementation or APFS transition? Contact our team today to ensure you're on track.