Building

Building & Construction is Australia's third-largest industry, and employs approximately 9% of the country's total workforce in full time and part time capacity. It is forecast that this number will continue to grow for the foreseeable future. Individuals who wish to work as builders in Australia, must obtain trade licensing for the relevant state. Continue reading to find out how to obtain an Australian Builders Licence for your state in order to enhance your employment prospects.

Builders License Facts

States and Territories have different requirements regarding builder's licences and you must be licensed by the state in which you wish to work.

In order to become a licensed builder, you must have:

• a minimum of 2 years’ relevant industry experience
• a TAFE certificate (or equivalent diploma)

The process can be lengthy, especially for individuals who are already working within the industry, having amassed a wealth of experience and practical skills. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) offers a legitimate, cost-effective alternative to repeating units of competency and it can ultimately fast-track the process to obtaining a builder's license.
RPL uses already acquired skills as evidence to prove competency against units within the target qualification. RPL typically requires no classroom attendance or exams and gives you the opportunity to become eligible for the qualification you deserve.
Individuals who do not have the experience will still have to follow the standard procedure of obtaining their basic qualifications from an accredited institution, which will involve classroom study and practical experience in a workshop setting.

Do I Really Need a Builders Licence?

Anyone who wishes to work as a builder in the construction industry, needs a builder's licence. Without it, you may not:

• carry out any building work;
• submit any bids or quotes on any jobs;
• sign building contracts;
• perform any building work in your personal capacity.

Unlicensed individuals who are found to contravene the law will receive significant penalties or fines, and - depending on the state - will not be eligible to apply for a license in the future under any circumstances

How to Apply for a Builder's License

The State or Territory's Building Commission regulates builder's licensing. While the process differs by state, most require certain qualifications, or completion of certain units within the following qualifications:

• Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building) CPC40110
• Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) CPC50210

Additionally, evidence of practical experience will be required, and that will be based on the length of time the individual has worked in a relevant role, as well as the type of work performed.
Builders with practical experience may have their experience, knowledge, and skills assessed in order to receive a qualification through RPL instead of having to complete the qualifications again.
Example:
An individual with extensive experience in bricklaying or carpentry, but no formal qualification, could use the process of RPL to effectively complete his full qualification based on existing experience within a matter of weeks.
There is no difference in legitimacy between the two pathways (traditional or RPL), as both deliver the same qualification. RPL simply rewards deserving individuals who have amassed a great deal of experience over time at a fraction of the cost and in a more cost-effective way.

Builders License in South Australia (SA)

Consumer and Business Services (CBS) of South Australia regulates builder's licences in South Australia and only licence holders may carry out any building work. In order to qualify for a builder's licence in SA, you must be able to show acquired qualifications and practical experience.
Any one of the following qualifications will be acceptable:

• Contractors Management Program Certificate IV
• Business Management for Building 1 (AQF4) or Building Management 2 (AQF5)
• Certificate IV in Building and Construction (CPC40110)
• Certificate IV in Building and Construction (CPC40110)

How to Apply

To apply, use one of the following options:

• Complete, print, sign and date the online form and send it to the Adelaide customer service centre or to a regional CBS Service SA office along with supporting documents and relevant fees.
• Call 131-882 and request that a staff member complete the form for you. They will then send it to you for approval and signing.
• Visit the CBS Customer Service Centre at 91 Grenfell Street to apply in person.

New Zealand, Interstate & Overseas Recognition

Individuals who hold licences from another country, state, or territory may still obtain a South Australia licence by completing the Mutual Recognition Building Practitioner Application forms.