Amusement devices

What is an Amusement Device?

Under the definition of the Work Health and Safety Regulation (2011), an amusement device generally means equipment operated for hire that provides entertainment through the movement of the equipment, or equipment which passengers travel on, around or along i.e. carnival-type amusement rides.

Approval does NOT need to be sought for:

a small amusement device that is battery-operated cars or miniature railways
a coin-operated amusement device.

Download amusement device application forms

Amusement Device Application Form (Inflatable) (PDF)(79.16 KB)

Amusement Device Application Form (Mechanically Driven) (PDF)(78.61 KB)

What is amusement device approval?

It is an approval that allows for the operation of an amusement device/carnival ride for use by the public. Under the new amendments to the Sydney Olympic Park Regulation 2001, the Authority has the responsibility for ensuring approvals are issued prior to any amusement device, carnival ride or the like being used by the public.

An amusement device is regulated under the provisions of the Local Government Act 1993, Local Government (Approvals) Regulation 1999 and the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011.

Why is an approval required?

The main purpose of approving amusement devices prior to operation is to ensure the device has a current WorkCover Registration (or another State Agency equivalent), the owner/operator has the required level of $20 million public liability insurance and that an up-to-date log book exists for the device.

What is required with my application form?

An application must be made to the Authority before the amusement device can be operated for public use. The application form must be accompanied by:

copy of current WorkCover NSW Registration (or another State Agency equivalent) relating to the specific ride
copy of $20 million Public Liability Insurance relating to the specific ride
confirmation that the device will be erected on firm ground
the application fee of $50 (GST exempt) payable to the Sydney Olympic Park Authority
the signature of the applicant.

How much will an Amusement Device Approval cost?

Each individual amusement device approval will cost $50 (GST exempt). In certain situations, where the amusement device is associated with a specific charity, or other special circumstance, the fee may be waived at the discretion of the Authority.

Generally, payment is required with the application (and a receipt will be posted back to the applicant), however, if necessary, a Tax Invoice can be sent to the applicant after the application has been submitted.

Payment may be made by cheque or money order payable to the Authority; however, the Authority's preferred method of payment is by Credit Card Authorisation. This form is attached to the Amusement Device Application.

How long will it take before my application is approved?

Once all details as identified on the application form are satisfactorily submitted, the Building Services Unit of the Authority will work to assess and approve the application within 5 working days.

For more information

If you have any further enquiries relating to the approval process, please do not hesitate to contact the Building Services Unit of the Sydney Olympic Park Authority on 02 9714 7357.