Short answer
Queensland law sets requirements covering the type of smoke alarm, where alarms must be located, and interconnection so that when one alarm detects smoke every alarm sounds. The obligations differ depending on whether a dwelling is owner-occupied, leased, being sold, or newly built, and they have been phased in on staged dates. Because the requirement that applies to you depends on your specific circumstances, confirm it with the Queensland Fire Department rather than relying on any summary, including this one.
The three core requirements
Queensland's domestic smoke alarm legislation is built around alarm type, placement and interconnection.
Photoelectric alarms are specified. Interconnection means one alarm detecting smoke triggers all of them. Placement rules cover bedrooms, the paths between bedrooms and exits, and each storey of the dwelling.
Why interconnection matters most
Interconnection is the requirement most existing homes lack, and it is arguably the one that does the most work.
A single alarm sounding at the far end of a house may not wake someone asleep behind a closed bedroom door. When every alarm sounds together, that problem disappears.
Different dwellings, different deadlines
The obligations have been introduced in stages, and which one applies depends on your situation: new builds and substantial renovations, dwellings being sold or leased, and all other domestic dwellings have each been treated differently.
This is exactly the kind of detail where a general article goes out of date. Check the current requirement for your circumstances directly with the Queensland Fire Department or the Queensland Government website.
Where alarms need to go
Placement is worked out from the layout of the dwelling. In general terms it involves:
- Alarms in each bedroom
- Alarms in hallways connecting bedrooms with the rest of the dwelling
- At least one alarm on every storey
- Positions that avoid known false-alarm sources such as immediately outside bathrooms or beside cooking areas
- All alarms interconnected so they sound together
Expiry and maintenance
Smoke alarms have a service life marked on the unit and should be replaced by that date regardless of whether they appear to work.
A regular short chirp usually means a low backup battery or an alarm at end of life. If a new battery does not resolve it, the unit itself is generally due for replacement.
Test alarms regularly using the test button, and keep them free of dust.
Sources
This page is general information and is not legal advice. Smoke alarm obligations depend on your specific dwelling and circumstances, and the rules change. Confirm the current requirement with the Queensland Fire Department.