Electrical Wire Colours & Colour Codes
When dealing with electrical wiring in Australia, understanding electrical wire colour codes is crucial for safety, compliance, and functionality. Whether you’re an electrician, a DIY enthusiast, or a homeowner looking to understand your electrical system, knowing the right electrical wiring colours can prevent dangerous mistakes.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of electrical wire colours in Australia, including live, neutral, and earth wire colours, wiring regulations, three-phase wiring, and the importance of colour-coded wiring in residential, commercial, and industrial applications.
Understanding Electrical Wire Colour Codes in Australia
Electrical wiring systems are colour-coded to indicate their function. This standardisation helps electricians, technicians, and homeowners correctly identify wires when installing, repairing, or modifying electrical circuits.
Current Australian Electrical Wire Colour Standards
In Australia, AS/NZS 3000:2018 (Electrical Installations – Wiring Rules) governs electrical cable colours and safety standards. The current Australian wiring colour code aligns with international standards (IEC 60446) to maintain consistency and safety.
Single-Phase Wiring Colours (230V / 240V Systems)
| Wire Function | Current Colour Code (Post-2000) | Old Colour Code (Pre-2000) |
|---|---|---|
| Active (Live) Wire | Brown | Red |
| Neutral Wire | Blue | Black |
| Earth (Ground) Wire | Green/Yellow | Green |
Three-Phase Wiring Colours (400V Systems)
| Wire Function | Current Colour Code (Post-2000) | Old Colour Code (Pre-2000) |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 (Active L1) | Brown | Red |
| Phase 2 (Active L2) | Black | White |
| Phase 3 (Active L3) | Grey | Blue |
| Neutral Wire | Blue | Black |
| Earth (Ground) Wire | Green/Yellow | Green |
🔴 Important: If you’re working with an older electrical system, you may encounter the old wiring colours. It’s essential to double-check before performing any electrical work.
Decoding Electrical Wire Colours: What Each Colour Means
Understanding wire colour meanings ensures that electrical connections are made correctly, reducing the risk of electrocution, short circuits, and fires.
1. Active (Live) Wire – Brown (Old: Red)
The live wire carries current from the power source to the electrical device. It should always be treated as dangerous, even when a circuit appears to be off.
2. Neutral Wire – Blue (Old: Black)
The neutral wire returns current to the power source after it has passed through an electrical device. While it doesn’t carry electricity under normal conditions, it can still be hazardous if wiring is incorrect.
3. Earth (Ground) Wire – Green/Yellow (Old: Green)
The earth wire acts as a safety mechanism by directing excess electricity into the ground during faults. This prevents electric shocks and fires.
4. Three-Phase Wiring – Brown, Black, Grey (Old: Red, White, Blue)
Three-phase electrical systems use three active wires to deliver a balanced three-phase supply. These systems are common in industrial settings, large appliances, and commercial buildings.
Common Electrical Wiring Applications in Australia
Different electrical installations require specific wiring configurations. Below are some common scenarios where electrical wire colour coding is crucial.
1. Residential Wiring (Single-Phase 240V)
Most Australian homes operate on a single-phase 240V supply, using:
- Brown (Live)
- Blue (Neutral)
- Green/Yellow (Earth)
2. Commercial and Industrial Wiring (Three-Phase 400V)
Larger buildings, factories, and commercial spaces use three-phase wiring for high-power applications, with:
- Brown (L1), Black (L2), Grey (L3)
- Blue (Neutral)
- Green/Yellow (Earth)
3. Light Switch Wiring (Active and Switched Active)
- Active (Live) – Brown
- Switched Active – Brown (with a tag or tape to indicate it’s switched)
4. Power Plug Wiring (Australian 3-Pin Plug)
The standard Australian power plug wiring follows:
- Active (Brown) – Right pin
- Neutral (Blue) – Left pin
- Earth (Green/Yellow) – Top pin
5. 3-Phase Motor Wiring (Industrial & Commercial)
- L1 (Brown), L2 (Black), L3 (Grey) for balanced power distribution
Electrical Wiring Regulations and Compliance in Australia
1. AS/NZS 3000:2018 Wiring Rules
- Ensures safe installation and maintenance
- Defines correct wiring colour codes
- Covers residential, commercial, and industrial electrical installations
2. Safety Standards and Compliance
- All electrical work must be performed by a licensed electrician
- DIY electrical work is illegal and can result in fines or prosecution
- Electrical systems must pass safety inspections and meet Australian wiring standards
3. Identifying and Updating Old Wiring
If you have an older home (built before 2000), check if the wiring follows outdated colour codes. Upgrading to modern wiring improves safety and compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the colour of the neutral wire in Australia?
The neutral wire is blue in modern wiring, but black in pre-2000 systems.
2. Which wire is live: blue or brown?
The live (active) wire is brown. The blue wire is neutral.
3. What colour is the earth wire in Australia?
The earth (ground) wire is green/yellow (or just green in older systems).
4. Can I do my own electrical wiring in Australia?
No. Only licensed electricians can perform electrical work legally. DIY electrical work is dangerous and illegal.
5. What is the colour code for three-phase wiring in Australia?
- L1 (Phase 1) – Brown
- L2 (Phase 2) – Black
- L3 (Phase 3) – Grey
- Neutral – Blue
- Earth – Green/Yellow
6. How do I identify old wiring colours in my home?
Check your electrical switchboard or hire an electrician for an inspection. Old wiring uses red (active), black (neutral), and green (earth).
7. What happens if wires are connected incorrectly?
Incorrect wiring can cause electrical faults, shocks, short circuits, or fires. Always consult an electrician.
8. How can I check if my wiring is compliant with Australian regulations?
A licensed electrician can inspect your wiring to ensure it meets AS/NZS 3000:2018 standards.
Conclusion
Understanding electrical wire colour codes in Australia is vital for safe installations and maintenance. Whether dealing with single-phase residential wiring or three-phase commercial setups, knowing the correct wire colours helps prevent hazards and ensures compliance with Australian regulations.
If you suspect old or faulty wiring, always seek a licensed electrician to inspect, repair, or upgrade your electrical system.
🔧 Need an electrician? Contact LCE Electrical Services for expert wiring solutions across Australia.
