Every state and territory has its own builder's licence requirements, regulators, and application processes. This guide covers all eight jurisdictions so you know exactly what you need — wherever you are in Australia.
Getting a builder's licence in Australia starts with understanding that licensing is managed at the state and territory level — there is no single national licence. Each jurisdiction has its own regulator, licence classes, fees, and application process. What remains consistent across the country is the qualification requirement.
The Certificate IV in Building and Construction (CPC40120) is the minimum qualification accepted in every state for entry-level builder's licences. For higher licence classes that allow unlimited domestic or commercial building work, the Diploma of Building and Construction (CPC50220) is typically required. Both are nationally recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework.
Beyond qualifications, most states require between 2 and 4 years of documented industry experience, and some require additional exams or interviews. In Queensland, there is also a dedicated Open Class Site Supervisor (QLD) pathway for those seeking site supervision roles. Use the state guides below to find the specific requirements for your jurisdiction.
Each state and territory has different licence classes, regulators, fees, and application processes. Select your state for the complete guide.
QBCC licence classes, financial requirements, and step-by-step application process.
Regulator: QBCCRead the full guide →NSWContractor licence types, fees from $830, and current 13-week processing times.
Regulator: NSW Fair TradingRead the full guide →VICDomestic and commercial registration pathways, BPC exams, and 2025 reforms.
Regulator: VBARead the full guide →SABuilding work contractor licence categories, CBS interview, and insurance requirements.
Regulator: CBSRead the full guide →WAFive registration pathways, trade experience fast-track, and costs from $2,900.
Regulator: Building CommissionRead the full guide →TASFour sub-classes, no exam required, qualification pathways, and CPD obligations.
Regulator: CBOSRead the full guide →NTFour registration categories, no exam, same Cert IV for all categories.
Regulator: Building AdvisoryRead the full guide →ACTFive licence classes, mandatory 80% written exam, and demerit points regime.
Regulator: Access CanberraRead the full guide →These nationally recognised qualifications are accepted by every state and territory regulator as the educational requirement for a builder's licence.
The minimum qualification for most builder's licence classes across Australia. Covers structural principles, building codes, legal requirements, and project management.
Required for higher licence classes in most states — unrestricted domestic building and commercial construction supervision. Opens doors to larger-scale projects. For unlimited/open builder licensing, the Advanced Diploma (CPC60220) takes you further. NSW and WA applicants can also explore our Diploma designed for NSW and WA licensing requirements.
Not sure which qualification is right for you? Compare Certificate IV vs Diploma to find the best fit for your state and career goals. Both courses can be completed while you continue working — learn more about how to study while you work.
Already experienced? If you've been working in the building industry for several years, you may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). This pathway acknowledges your existing skills and experience, significantly reducing study time. Learn more about RPL →
Answers to the most common questions about getting a builder's licence in Australia.
No. Each state and territory has its own licensing system, regulator, and requirements. However, the nationally recognised qualifications — Certificate IV in Building and Construction (CPC40120) and Diploma of Building and Construction (CPC50220) — are accepted across all jurisdictions as the educational requirement for a builder's licence.
Start with the right qualification. Our Certificate IV and Diploma in Building and Construction are delivered 100% online — study from anywhere in Australia while you work.