GPO (General Purpose Outlet)

A GPO, or General Purpose Outlet, is a standard electrical socket found in residential and commercial buildings throughout Australia. It is used to connect various electrical appliances to the power supply. In Australia, GPOs are governed by strict standards, primarily AS/NZS 3112, which specifies the design, construction, and safety requirements for plugs and sockets.

The most common type of GPO in Australia is the dual 3-pin socket, rated at 10A and 240V AC. The 3-pin configuration includes an active (live) pin, a neutral pin, and an earth (ground) pin, providing both safety and functionality. The earth pin is slightly longer to ensure it connects first, which helps reduce the risk of electric shock.

GPOs are often mounted on walls, skirting boards, or in floor boxes, and they can be controlled by a switch located on the outlet itself. In recent years, some GPOs have been designed with additional features such as USB charging ports.