March is here, and there’s plenty happening in the world of Test & Tag - especially with some of the largest construction projects in years kicking off.
With rising costs and labour shortages putting the squeeze on businesses, some are feeling the pressure to stretch equipment longer and push maintenance down the list. This month, we’re breaking down what these massive builds mean for Test & Tag, how tighter budgets could impact safety on-site, and the simple steps to keep your PAT Tester in top shape - because no one wants a breakdown in the middle of a job.
Construction Boom, Compliance Pressures & What It Means for Test & Tag
March 2025, and Australia’s construction industry is running at full steam. Some of the biggest infrastructure projects in decades are well underway - from Brisbane’s Olympic upgrades to Adelaide’s North-South Corridor, there’s more work, more tools in use, and more compliance requirements than ever before.
Brisbane 2032 Olympics & Major Projects Driving Demand
The Brisbane 2032 Olympics is pumping billions into new venues, transport upgrades and urban development. Some of the biggest projects include:
- Brisbane Arena ($2.5 billion investment) – a major new indoor venue for Olympic events and large-scale entertainment.
- $7.1 billion Venue Infrastructure Program – expanding and upgrading key venues around Queensland.
- Transport & City Upgrades - Infrastructure improvements to support increased traffic, tourism, public transport demand.
With more sites, more workers and more equipment, electrical safety isn't negotiable. Dodgy leads or missed test dates? That's how you end up with shutdowns, costly delays and failed inspections.
Adelaide’s North-South Corridor & Compliance Pressures
In South Australia, the North-South Corridor’s Torrens to Darlington (T2D) Project is now in motion. This final 10.5km section will complete a 78km non-stop motorway from Gawler to Old Noarlunga, featuring twin three-lane tunnels.
- Major tunneling works begin in late 2026
- Full completion expected by 2031
- Increased demand for compliance and site safety
With high-risk tunneling and roadworks, construction firms must ensure all portable tools, generators, and site equipment comply with AS/NZS 3012 standards, including mandatory Test & Tag intervals every three months.
More Projects, More Demand for Test & Tag Services
The increase in these major projects means Test & Tag services are in higher demand than ever. More sites, more tools, more compliance headaches - it all adds up.
More Worksites = More Equipment That Must Be Tested
- Every big built means thousands of tools, leads, and electrical equipment that must be tested and tagged.
- Government projects generally enforce stricter safety regulations, making compliance non-negotiable.
- If it's not tagged and compliant, it's not going on site - simple as that.
Labour Shortages and High Turnover = More Onboarding & Safety Checks
- With tradies in short supply, site crews are changing constantly.
- That means there are more new workers unfamiliar with the site safety procedures.
- Subcontractors need to prove their gear is compliant before stepping onto site.
Rising Costs = Some Might Try to Cut Corners
- Most construction firms do the right thing and follow regulations to keep their team safe. But when costs rise, some may delay or reduce safety checks to save money - a risky move that could backfire.
- WorkSafe and regulators are cracking down - businesses have been hit with six-figure fines in recent years for failing to meet electrical safety compliance.
Full Breakdown: Read our Test & Tag Guide for Construction
With big projects in full swing and safety checks tightening up, staying on top of Test & Tag is more important than ever. Whether you’re a site manager, contractor, or tradie, keeping your tools compliant isn’t just ticking a box, it’s what keeps the job moving and avoids costly shutdowns.
Check out our full guide on Test & Tag for Construction which has everything you need to know to stay compliant, stay working, and stay out of trouble.
How to Avoid Costly PAT Tester Mistakes
With all these major builds firing up across Australia, there's more testing, tagging, and gear in rotation than ever before. And when you're relying on your PAT Tester day in, day out - the last thing you need is downtime.
Based on thousands of calibrations and real-world feedback, we've put together the most common mistakes we see.
The good news? Most of these issues are preventable. A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your tester accurate, reliable, and in top condition.
Here are the main things we found:
- Using the wrong batteries is the #1 mistake
- Calibration isn’t optional like some think - even if your tester seems fine
- People aren’t utilising surge protected power boards
- Dust and debris ruins your tester – but you can mitigate it
If you rely on your tester for work, this is must-know info. Don’t learn these lessons the hard way!
Read our full guide How to Keep your PAT Tester Running Like New
Choosing a PAT Tester in 2025: The No-Nonsense Guide
PAT Testers have changed a lot over the years - cheaper models now come packed with features, while high-end testers are offering automation that actually saves time. But picking the right one isn’t as simple as just looking at the price tag.
That’s why we’ve put together a new, in-depth guide breaking down what actually matters when choosing a PAT Tester.
- Are you testing only your workplace appliances?
- Do you need to conduct 100’s of tests per week for clients?
- Will you be testing in one location, or taking your tester between sites?
- Do you require automation, or will manual entry be sufficient?
Your answers will shape what kind of PAT Tester you need - and our PAT Tester Guide explains exactly which models suit each type of tester.
New Training Venues Now Open in SA & VIC
We're expanding, again! We've trained tens of thousands of students across Australia and due to growing demand, we're making it easier to get certified. You can now complete your face-to-face training at:
- Morphett Vale, South Australia - perfect for students in Adelaide's souther suburbs
- Reservoir, Victoria - a convenient option for any students in the northern suburbs
Prefer to train online? Our Online Test & Tag Course lets you get certified from the comfort of your home. Or if face-to-face is a must, we have 13 venues around Australia to choose from, and we can bring our instructor to you with onsite training.
