New Year’s Eve celebrations: How letting off fireworks can result in hefty fines, serious injuries and jail time

Australia is known worldwide for its spectacular fireworks displays on New Year's Eve.

But did you know that setting off your own explosives could land you in jail, be rushed to the hospital, or result in a fine of up to $52,000?

Millions will flock to parks and waterfront venues across the country this Sunday evening to watch the sky explode in a beautiful light show to welcome 2024.

Authorities have warned revelers to leave the fireworks to the professionals this New Year's Eve to avoid stiff penalties, serious injuries or even jail time.

Setting off fireworks this Sunday evening will likely have serious consequences

In NSW, using illegal fireworks on the spot can get you a fine of up to $1000, with a maximum fine of $27,500 and 12 months in prison.

“Fireworks in the hands of unlicensed users are a safe way to endanger people and property,” said Natasha Mann of SafeWork NSW.

Unauthorized fireworks have been illegal in Queensland since 1972, with those caught using or handling explosives facing fines of up to $52,220 and six months in prison.

In Victoria it is a crime for anyone other than a licensed pyrotechnician to use or carry fireworks.

Anyone caught using fireworks could face criminal charges, including prison sentences of up to fifteen years and thousands of dollars in fines.

WorkSafe director of health and safety Narelle Beer said fireworks in the wrong hands were potentially fatal.

“It is very worrying to see that the number of people seeking emergency treatment for fireworks-related injuries has risen again for the first time in recent years,” Dr Beer said.

Australia is known worldwide for its spectacular fireworks displays on New Year's Eve. The photo shows Sydney

New Year's Eve revelers are urged to leave the fireworks (pictured) to the professionals

Last summer, CFA firefighters were called to 27 fires and explosions across the state caused by illegal fireworks.

“Enjoy your celebrations, but don't let illegal fireworks ruin the fun – there is a very real risk that you or someone nearby could be seriously injured,” she said.

In the Northern Territory, anyone over the age of 18 can legally purchase and light fireworks on one day of the year, July 1, Territory Day, also known as 'Cracker Night'.

There are strict rules that apply to everyone who takes part in the explosive festivities. Anyone who doesn't follow these rules could face a fine of more than $1,200.

If you are caught using illegal fireworks in South Australia, you could be fined up to $5000.

Fortunato Foti was busy on Friday preparing for Sunday night's spectacular NYE fireworks in Sydney

In Western Australia, the public is prohibited from using fireworks, with the exception of throwdowns and sparklers.

Using illegal fireworks in WA can result in fines of thousands of dollars.

According to a study by Monash University's Victorian Injury Surveillance Unit, 191 people have been treated for fireworks-related injuries since July 2015.

Four out of five injured people are men, and almost a quarter are between 20 and 24 years old.

The most common type of injury was burns (87), followed by eye injuries (30) and open wounds (20).

Summer is the most dangerous season for fireworks; 71 percent of injuries occur between December and February.