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Get a Builder’s Licence

TAKE THE NEXT STEP

Whether you’ve recently finished a Diploma or certificate-level course in building and construction, an experienced tradesperson ready to step up or a subcontractor looking to expand your services, getting a builder’s licence is the next crucial step in your career. Master Builders ACT can help guide you through every stage of the process.

LICENCE INFORMATION

Why is a builder’s licence required in the ACT?

In the ACT, a builder’s licence is a legal requirement for anyone who carries out, manages, or arranges building work valued over a specific threshold (currently $12,000 for incidental work or any structural work). This is mandated under the Building Act 2004.

The licence system ensures that all building work is performed by individuals or companies who are:

  • qualified
  • competent, and
  • financially responsible.

This protects consumers, maintains high industry standards, and ensures compliance with ACT building codes and safety regulations.

Working without a valid licence is a serious offence that can result in significant penalties.

A smiling builder holding a hard hat and a spirit level inside an unfinished building, with site scaffolding visible through the window behind him.

Types of builder’s licence in the ACT

The ACT regulates construction licensing through Access Canberra. Licences vary depending on the complexity and value of the projects you intend to undertake. The three main classes are:

Class A (Unlimited)

for building work of any value, including multi-storey residential, commercial, and industrial projects.

Class B (Medium-Scale)

for projects valued at up to $1 million or a single dwelling (including townhouses or dual occupancies) up to two storeys.

Class C (Small-Scale)

for projects valued at up to $200,000. This is often the entry point for owner-builders or small-scale contractors.

A construction worker in a high-visibility shirt and cap talking with colleagues on a building site.

LICENCE INFORMATION

Who can get a licence?

To be eligible, you generally need to meet the following criteria.

  • You must be at least 18 years old.
  • You must be a ‘fit and proper person.’
    This includes having no relevant criminal history or prior disqualifications from holding a licence.
  • You must have experience and qualifications.
    You will need to demonstrate specific technical qualifications and practical experience relevant to the licence class.
  • You must have good financial standing.
    For a Class A or B licence, you must demonstrate a minimum level of financial capacity (e.g., net assets or access to funds) to ensure you can meet your contractual obligations.

Requirements for an ACT builder’s licence

The requirements become more stringent as the licence class increases. Here is a summary of the key requirements drawn from industry and government sources:

1 Qualifications
  • Class C typically requires a Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building). MBA Training offers this qualification through the CPC40120 – Certificate IV in Building and Construction course.
  • Class B requires a Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) or an equivalent higher qualification.
  • Class A requires an Advanced Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) or a university degree in a relevant field (e.g., Engineering, Construction Management).

All classes require you to have completed specific units of competency in the qualification, particularly those related to ‘Apply project quality requirements’ and ‘Supervise the application of building codes and standards.

2 Practical experience

You must have verifiable experience working in the industry under a licensed builder.

  • Class C: minimum of 2 years of relevant, recent experience
  • Class B: minimum of 3-4 years of relevant experience, often with a higher level of responsibility
  • Class A: minimum of 4-5 years of relevant experience, including experience managing complex projects
3 Licensing exam

All applicants must pass the ACT Builders Licensing Exam. This test assesses your knowledge of:

  • the Building Act 2004 and Regulations
  • the National Construction Code (NCC)
  • occupational health and safety (WHS)
  • contract administration and disputes
  • insurance requirements
4 Financial requirements
  • You must provide a financial statement prepared by a qualified accountant.
  • A minimum of $50,000 in net assets is often a base requirement, but this can be higher for Class A and B licences.
5 Other documents

To obtain your licence you will need:

  • proof of identity
  • a current National Police Check
  • evidence of public liability insurance ($20 million is standard)
  • completion of a mandatory business management course (if required)

WE’RE HERE TO HELP

How do I get my licence?

Once you are sure you meet all of the requirements for an ACT builder’s licence, you must apply for your licence through Access Canberra.

Need help? You can reach out to our team for basic advice and direction on requirements and pathways to a licence.

Reach out to us now
Three people reviewing architectural plans together at a table, marking them up with pens.

Other resources

Access Canberra

The definitive government portal for application forms, fees, and the official licensing criteria.

Visit the Access Canberra website

ACT Legislation Register

To search for the Building Act 2004 and Building (General) Regulation 2008

Visit the ACT Legislation Register website