Fire Evacuation Plans for Motels, Hostels & Small Hotels – Australia Compliance Guide
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Helping You Meet Fire Safety Requirements Across Every Australian State
When running a hotel, motel, or hostel in Australia, guest safety isn’t just about service—it’s a legal responsibility. Fire evacuation diagrams (also called fire evacuation plans) are one of the most overlooked yet essential parts of that responsibility.
At BlueprintBnB, we specialise in designing compliant fire evacuation diagrams for all accommodation types, and in this guide, we’ll break down what you need to stay compliant—state by state.
What makes us stand out?
Why Fire Evacuation Diagrams Matter for Traditional Accommodations.
If you own or manage a motel, hostel, or boutique hotel, you might not realise that:
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Fire evacuation plans and diagrams are required under Australian Standard AS 3745-2010.
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Many Class 1b and Class 3 buildings fall under legal mandates for evacuation information.
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Non-compliance can affect insurance, result in fines, or put guests at serious risk.
Whether you run a 4-room guesthouse in the Grampians or a 30-bed hostel in Brisbane, evacuation signage is part of your core duty of care.
What Needs to Be Included in Your Fire Evacuation Plan or Diagram?
Every state follows AS 3745, but local guidelines add extra layers. Your evacuation diagram should include:
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A floor plan showing the layout of the premises
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Clearly marked "You Are Here" indicators
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Exit routes and emergency egress paths
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Locations of fire equipment (extinguishers, fire blankets, hose reels)
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External assembly areas or muster points
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Contact information: 000 and Emergency+ app
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A clear legend and correct orientation for each installation point
Need help? We’ll design and deliver a compliant evacuation diagram in 48 hours. Order yours now
What makes us stand out?
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What Needs to Be Included in Your Fire Evacuation Plan or Diagram?
Compliance Checklist by State
New South Wales (NSW)
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If your property falls under STRA (Short-Term Rental Accommodation) guidelines, evacuation diagrams plans are mandatory.
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This applies to small hotels and motels listed on platforms like Airbnb, Stayz or used for STRA purposes.
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See our full NSW service page.
Queensland (QLD)
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Class 1b and Class 3 buildings (like hostels and small hotels) require evacuation diagrams by law.
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2022 smoke alarm laws also mandate interconnected photoelectric alarms.
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View our QLD compliance guide.
Victoria (VIC)
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Diagrams must follow AS 3745 and local council requirements.
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Many councils now ask for them as part of business permit renewals.
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Access the Victoria diagrams service.
Western Australia (WA)
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Evacuation plans are expected for short-stay properties under Class 1b and 3.
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WA Fire Services recommend proper signage in guest rooms and entryways.
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Get compliant in Western Australia.
South Australia, Tasmania, ACT & NT
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While less prescriptive, these jurisdictions follow AS 3745.
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If you operate any form of guest accommodation, diagrams are strongly advised.
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We'll provide compliant plans regardless of location.
What makes us stand out?
What Types of Properties Does This Apply To?
This guide is especially relevant for:
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Motels (including highway stops, budget inns, and serviced roadhouses)
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Small Hotels (family-run, boutique, rural hotels, etc.)
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Hostels & Backpacker Lodges
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Holiday Parks with Cabins
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Bed & Breakfasts with multiple guest rooms
If your accommodation has more than 1 guest room and is open to the public, you likely need a fire evacuation diagram.
Email:
info@blueprintbnb.com.au
Phone:
0439559210
ABN
97279706372
Accommodation evacuation diagrams
Tumbi Umbi
NSW