State government lights fuse on relaxing Tasmanian fireworks laws

Tasmanians would be permitted to set off more fireworks over a longer Cracker Night, under a plan that would also expand the list of professional pyrotechnic events to birthdays and weddings.

Some of the fireworks and crackers offered by Brightstar Fireworks. Picture: supplied.

Tasmanians would be permitted to set off more fireworks over a longer Cracker Night firing timeslot, under a state government proposal that would also expand the list of professional pyrotechnic events to include birthdays and weddings.

Describing the annual event as an iconic Tasmanian family tradition, Minister for Housing, Planning and Consumer Affair Felix Ellis, said the changes would raise the current 200kg storage limit for retailers, and introduce a new category of “low noise” fireworks across the state.

As the 2025 edition got underway on Saturday, Mr Ellis said the government was determined to cut red tape surrounding the use of fireworks in the state.

Brightstar Fireworks owner Matthew Palmer and Police, Fire and Emergency Management Minister Felix Ellis with fireworks prepped for Cracker Night. Picture: supplied

“Cracker Night is a much-loved tradition for so many Tasmanian families, and we want to help them enjoy it without unnecessary restrictions,” Minister Ellis said.

“The proposed changes cut red tape for businesses by removing unnecessary paperwork and having consistent rules – while also providing certainty for Tasmanians and their pets.

“A longer firing window, access to more fireworks and new opportunities to celebrate other events with fireworks will help spark even more joy.

“There are 651 events registered across the state tonight, bringing together communities to celebrate, enjoy each other’s company and create special memories.”

The government’s proposed changes for next year’s Cracker Night include introducing a single, longer firing timeslot of 6pm to 9pm, increasing the amount of fireworks the public can purchase from 20kg to up to 80kg, and greater discretion to approve professional events which are “in the public interest”.

Cracker Night to celebrate Empire Day back in Tasmania Alexandra, 8, and Dominic, 11, Mole of Old Beach enjoy the fireworks at their bonfire

A consultation paper on the proposed changes to the state’s Explosives Regulations was currently being prepared, Mr Ellis said, with stakeholder and community consultation to follow its release.

Important safety information about fireworks is available on the WorkSafe Tasmania website.

The proposed changes for next year’s Cracker Night include:

Changing the firing window to a single, longer timeslot (6pm – 9pm);

Introducing a new category of “low noise” fireworks;

Raising the 200kg retail storage limit;

Increase the quantity of fireworks that can be bought by the public for ‘Cracker Night’ from 20kg to 40-80kg; and

Expanding the list of approved professionally display event purposes to include birthdays, conferences, award nights and weddings, as well as the discretion to approve an event if in the public interest.

Fireworks explode above a city. (Photo by STRINGER / AFP)