Building and Construction is Australia’s third-largest industry, employing approximately 9% of the country’s total workforce in full-time and part-time capacities. The sector is forecasted to continue its growth for the foreseeable future. This article aims to guide you through the essential aspects of obtaining a builder’s licence.
Queensland’s builder licensing system runs on three main classes — Low Rise, Medium Rise and Open — each tied to a specific qualification and a genuine track record on site. If you’ve got the experience but not the paperwork, we can help you close that gap through RPL, with your evidence assessed by one of our partnered training organisations.
The Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) issues and regulates all builder licences in the state. Depending on the scope of work you want to do, you’ll apply for one of three main builder licence classes, or a Restricted licence covering a narrower scope such as structural landscaping, kitchen/bathroom/laundry renovations, shopfitting, special structures, or swimming pool construction.
A QBCC licence is required for building work valued at more than $3,300 (labour, materials and GST combined), or more than $1,100 where hydraulic services design is involved. Certain work requires a licence regardless of value, including plumbing and drainage, gas fitting, chemical termite management, fire protection, residential building inspections, and building design work. A handful of roles are exempt — subcontractors working under a licensed contractor, property owners on their own property, and licensed trades like electricians who fall under separate regulation.
Alongside the qualification, you’ll need to meet QBCC’s experience requirements (generally at least two years in the relevant scope of work, gained within the last decade), satisfy the Minimum Financial Requirements (MFR), and pass QBCC’s fit and proper person assessment.
Processing typically takes 6–8 weeks, though more complex applications can take longer.
If you’ve done the work but never completed the formal qualification, Recognition of Prior Learning assesses your practical experience against the units that make up your target qualification. We help you build the case; one of our partnered RTOs carries out the formal assessment and issues the qualification once your competency is confirmed.
We help you work out which licence class actually matches your goals, gather the right evidence, and connect with a partnered RTO suited to your trade background — so you’re not guessing your way through QBCC’s requirements alone.
For help with your QLD builder’s licence, call RPL on 1300 588 967.
This page reflects QBCC requirements at the time of writing. Requirements, fees and thresholds change, so confirm current details directly with the QBCC before relying on specific figures.
Only below the $3,300 threshold (or $1,100 for hydraulic services design), and only if the work doesn’t fall into an always-licensed category like plumbing, gas fitting or fire protection.
Yes — QBCC requires evidence of relevant experience (generally at least two years, gained within the last ten years) alongside your qualification.
Fees vary by licence class and your business’s expected turnover. Confirm the current fee schedule with QBCC before applying, as fees are periodically indexed.
Usually 6–8 weeks, though more complex applications can take up to 12 weeks.
Yes — QBCC licences require periodic renewal, which can be done online or by phone.
For more information and support with your QLD Builder’s Licence, contact RPL. Call us on 13 17 75 or email [email protected]. Our experts are ready to guide you through each step of the process, ensuring your journey towards obtaining your licence is smooth and successful.
Please note, licensing requirements can change, so it’s advisable to contact the QBCC for the most up-to-date information. RPL is not an RTO or licensing body.
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