Brick by brick, every construction project in QLD and NSW requires a solid foundation – and this includes the right paperwork. Before you strap on your tool belt or fire up that excavator, make sure you’re licensed up. The QBCC in Queensland and Fair Trading in New South Wales are your go-to for getting those licences nailed down.

Now, for all you tradies, here’s where things can get a bit tangled. Getting your head around the ins and outs of your business structure, especially when your legal mate or business advisor is throwing jargon your way. Simply put: if your company’s name is on that construction contract, you’ll need a Company Licence to stay above board.

Steel Beams and Licensing Schemes:

Think of a company as a standalone structure. Just like you wouldn’t build without the right materials, you shouldn’t contract without the right licence. Every company gets its own identifier from the ASIC, known as an ACN. This is like your site ID – it’s unique to you. And remember, keep those finances in order, like a well-organised toolbox. Some companies might also handle trust funds – think of them as the guardians of the site’s treasure chest.

When Do You Need the Builder’s Green Light?

Not every small reno job needs a licence. In Queensland, unless you’re looking at projects worth more than $3,300 or in New South Wales, over $5,500 (that’s tools, timber, and toil all-in), you might be exempt. But cross these numbers, and it’s like building a skyscraper – your company will need its own permit. Personal licences? They’re like your own safety gear. They protect you, but they won’t cover the whole crew or the entire site. Going rogue with an unlicensed company is like ignoring safety standards – fines can rain down, and future licensing can get trickier, like working on a sloped roof without scaffolding.

Blueprint for a Company Licence: Here’s your checklist, tradies.

• Registered with ASIC? Tick.
• Financials sorted and Home Warranty Insurance in your back pocket for those house builds? Double tick.
• Directors and decision-makers on the level? Check.
• Got a licensed site supervisor in the same trade category? They’re your foreman. 

Make sure they’re either on the company’s payroll or have a seat at the boardroom table. If they’re fresh to the game and need a licence, they’ll have to get that sorted.

Need a Hand with the Paperwork?