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.
Western Australia’s building registration system runs on five distinct pathways, each recognising a different mix of qualifications and experience. If you’re not sure which one fits your background, that’s exactly where we start — then help you close any gap through RPL.
The Building Services Board, supported by Building and Energy (part of the WA Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety), oversees building practitioner and contractor registration in Western Australia. Most builders need to hold two registrations to operate — Building Practitioner (BP00) and Building Contractor (BC00) — rather than a single licence.
Registration is required if you carry out or supervise building work valued over $20,000 within the Board’s designated jurisdiction, act as a nominated supervisor for a registered building contractor, take on permit contracting for clients, or manage construction of Class 1 (residential) or Class 10 (non-habitable) buildings.
Each pathway requires its own application form and supporting evidence, and all applicants are assessed on financial standing and fit and proper person grounds.
If your experience already lines up with Set 1, 4 or 5, but you’ve never completed the formal Diploma, RPL lets that experience be assessed directly against the qualification rather than requiring a return to study. We help gather your evidence; one of our partnered RTOs carries out the assessment. Many candidates complete this in a matter of weeks, not years.
To apply for a builder’s licence in WA, applicants must:
We help you work out which of the five sets actually applies to you, gather the right evidence for RPL, and connect you with a partnered RTO experienced in WA registration pathways.
For help with your WA builder’s registration, call RPL on 1300 588 967.
This page reflects Building Services Board requirements at the time of writing. Always confirm current thresholds, forms and fees directly with Building and Energy WA.
Not above the $20,000 threshold within the Board’s jurisdiction — unregistered work above this can lead to penalties.
Yes — each of the five registration pathways recognises a different combination of qualifications and experience, and RPL can help convert that experience into the required qualification.
Up to three months once your application and supporting documents are submitted.
Yes — we assess your experience and goals against all five sets and recommend the one that gives you the clearest path forward.
For more detailed assistance with your builder’s licence application in WA, contact RPL. Reach out to us at 1300 588 967 or via email at [email protected]. Our skilled team is ready to support you every step of the way.
Please remember to consult your state’s licensing body for the most current information, as requirements may change over time. RPL is not an RTO or licensing body.
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