Find out what changed with the transition from DMIRS/DEMIRS to LGIRS in Western Australia and whether you need a National Police Check to apply for or renew your WA license.
If you are looking to apply for a business, occupational, or driver’s license in Western Australia (WA), you have likely come across names such as DMIRS, DEMIRS, or the more recent LGIRS.
Government agencies frequently update their structures, and staying up to date is key to submitting the correct documentation and avoiding delays. We explain—in simple terms—what these acronyms mean and how they affect your applications and the request for your National Police Certificate.
To understand the current licensing and regulatory landscape in WA, here is the department’s journey. The evolution of the acronyms: DMIRS – DEMIRS – LGIRS:
DMIRS: (Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety): The name historically used by the agency responsible for licensing, workplace safety, and consumer protection in WA.
DEMIRS: (Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety): A change adopted in December 2023 to formally integrate the energy portfolio.
LGIRS: (Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety): The official name effective July 1, 2025. The department was restructured to consolidate local government functions with industry regulation, licensing, and consumer protection.
IMPORTANT: Even if you see the names DMIRS or DEMIRS in older guides, the active regulatory body for commercial licensing, industry regulation, and consumer protection is LGIRS; however, using any of the three terms is acceptable.
Do you need a police check for your license in WA?
For most occupational licenses or permits administered in Western Australia (such as those for building contractors, real estate agents, commercial vehicle operators, or security and transport personnel), the government requires a criminal background check.
The standard requirement is usually a National Police Certificate issued within the last 12 months.
Steps to request your police check with Backy:
Apply online: Complete the application form in minutes from any device.
Quick verification: Process your identity documents without extensive paperwork or lines.
Receive your certificate: Get your digital National Police Check, valid for use with licensing procedures in WA.
To ensure your application is processed correctly and avoid costly errors, please follow the specific, step-by-step instructions required during the checkout. Click here: https://backycheck.com.au/police-checks-for-dmirs-licensing-purposes/ to view the complete guide on selecting the correct check type and purpose details.
