How to obtain Your Builder's License in Queensland

How to obtain Your Builder's License in Queensland - Australian Special skills and Services

Securing a builder's licence is a crucial aspect of establishing a successful career in Queensland's construction industry. While the application process is straightforward for both individuals and companies, it does vary across different states in Australia. It's essential to acquaint yourself with the specific procedures in the state or territory where you intend to operate before initiating the application.

The guide below details the process of obtaining a builder's licence in Queensland. If you're considering launching your own business, this article will walk you through the initial steps to bring your entrepreneurial aspirations to fruition.

Builders Licence QLD

In Queensland, a building licence is mandatory for any construction work where the total value exceeds $3,300. The value of work encompasses the reasonable cost of the undertaken activities, incorporating materials, labour, and GST.

If your intended work involves the following, obtaining a builder's licence is a prerequisite.

• Drainage
• Plumbing and drainage
• Gas fitting
• Termite Management - Chemical
• Low rise, medium rise and open building design
• Site classification
• Mechanical services
• Fire protection
• For building work incorporating hydraulic services design and surpassing a total value of $1,100, obtaining a builder's licence is essential.

In Queensland, licences are classified into three main categories, each with its respective subcategories:

Low Rise Builder Licence: The Builder Low Rise category in Queensland encompasses contractor and nominee supervisor licences, along with the site supervisor licence.

Medium Rise Builder Licence: The Builder Medium Rise category in Queensland comprises contractor and nominee supervisor licences, as well as a site supervisor licence.

Open Builder Licence: Builder—open contractor and nominee supervisor licences, Builder—project management services contractor and nominee supervisor licences and Builder—open site supervisor licence

What are the requirements?

To be eligible for a builder's licence in Queensland, you are required to furnish evidence of both practical experience and formal qualifications. This may involve demonstrating hands-on experience in the construction industry and obtaining relevant educational qualifications related to building and construction.

Experience

To meet the eligibility criteria for a licence, you must have a minimum of 2 years of experience within the scope of work defined by the licence class, accumulated over the last 10 years. This experience, whether gained as an employee or sub-contractor, should be paid. The nature of the work should demonstrate your involvement in building activities and/or your coordination and on-site supervision of contractors. Providing evidence of such experience is crucial for the qualification process.

Qualifications

In addition to the mandatory 2 years of experience, obtaining a Certificate IV in Building and Construction - CPC40120 is a minimum requirement for certain licences, depending on the specific licence class you are seeking in Queensland. This formal qualification ensures that individuals seeking a builder's licence have acquired a comprehensive understanding of building and construction principles, regulations, and practices. Meeting both the experience and educational criteria is essential for eligibility and demonstrates a well-rounded competence in the field.

Attaining your certification or qualification

If you've fulfilled the work experience but are yet to acquire the necessary formal qualification for your licence application, you might be eligible for a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) assessment. This process evaluates your practical skills and experience in alignment with the essential units of the qualification you aim to attain. Opting for an RPL assessment can be a time and cost-effective solution, allowing you to bypass redundant studies and expedite your qualification process.

Submitting your licence application

Your application for a builder's licence in Queensland must encompass the following:

• Submission of the appropriate application form, either the Builders Licence Application Form or Building and Designer Experience Form, is a crucial component of your Queensland builder's licence application.
• Submission of a completed Referee Report 
• Comprehensive details of your experience, accompanied by any relevant supporting documents.
• Technical qualification documents.
• Include written references confirming your supervised experience in your builder's licence application in Queensland.
• Provide evidence that demonstrates you meet the financial requirements as part of your builder's licence application.
• A copy of your driver’s licence or passport
• A copy of your Record of Registration from ASIC (if contracting under a trading name)
• Proof of business partnership (if contracting under a partnership)

To submit your application, send all completed forms, supporting documents, and the required application fee to the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC). Alternatively, you can personally submit your application at a local QBCC office.

The application fee will be determined based on your revenue. You can refer to the licence application form to review the applicable fees.

After the completion of the application process, you will receive a letter containing your builder's licence number and specifying the scope of work applicable to your licence class.

Embarking on a career as a business owner in the building and construction industry is a path that can lead to a fulfilling and prosperous journey. While obtaining a builder's licence is a pivotal step in this process, transitioning from an apprentice to a business owner involves additional crucial steps.

Our team is ready to assist you with your application. If you have any inquiries or would like more information about the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process, feel free to reach out to us. You can call us at 1800 773 732 or send an email with your questions to info@australianspecialskillservices.com.au. Begin your journey towards becoming a licensed builder and business owner today.