This site explains what three phase power is, when a home or small business might need an upgrade, and what the process usually involves. It is written for Australian households and small business owners who want to understand the basics before they ring a licensed electrician.
Most people arrive here trying to work out whether they actually need three phase power. Perhaps you are adding a large air conditioner, charging an electric vehicle at home, installing an induction cooktop, or looking at a solar and battery setup. Perhaps a tradesperson mentioned three phase in passing and you are not sure what it means for your house or your budget.
This guide is for home owners, renters who are planning ahead, small business owners and anyone else who wants a clearer picture before they start making calls. It covers the general ideas, the common reasons people look into an upgrade, and the questions worth asking an electrician.
It is general information only. Every property is different, and the only person who can assess yours is a licensed electrician who has seen it in person.
This is an information site. Nothing here is a service you can hire, and there is nothing to book or buy.
We do not carry out electrical work of any kind. We do not attend properties, install anything, or inspect switchboards. All electrical work must be done by a licensed electrician.
We do not provide quotes, estimates or pricing. Costs depend on your property, your network provider and the work required, and only a licensed electrician who has assessed your site can give you a figure.
What you read here is general in nature. It is not advice about your specific property and it is not a substitute for an on-site assessment by a licensed electrician.
The best way to use this guide is to read the pages that apply to you, write down your questions, and then take those questions to a licensed electrician.
Electrical work in Australia must be carried out by a licensed electrician. Ask for their licence details before any work begins and make sure the work is done to the standards that apply in your state or territory.
You can check an electrical contractor licence number with the electrical regulator in your state or territory. Every state and territory has its own regulator and its own way of verifying a licence, so look up the one where you live and confirm the details before you proceed.
A straightforward explanation of how three phase supply differs from single phase, and why the difference matters for larger electrical loads.
Common reasons people start asking about three phase, including large appliances, electric vehicle charging, and solar and battery systems.
The general steps that tend to come up, from the first conversation with an electrician through to the work being completed and certified.
A list of things to raise with your electrician and your network provider so you understand what is involved before anything goes ahead.
Rules, standards, approvals and processes for electrical work differ between states and territories, and can change over time. Always confirm the current requirements with your electrical regulator and a licensed electrician in your area.
Requirements vary by state and territory. Check with the regulator where you live.
Use a licensed electrician for all electrical work, including any upgrade.
Check the electrical contractor licence number with your state or territory regulator.
Confirm current rules and approval steps before any work is scheduled.
If you have read through this guide and still are not sure whether three phase power is relevant to your property, the next step is to speak with a licensed electrician who can look at your situation properly. Before you engage anyone, confirm their electrical contractor licence number with the electrical regulator in your state or territory.