If you want to carry out building work in your own name, you will almost always be required to obtain a building work contractors license.
The process can be confusing as there are different types of licenses and different training pathways which can differ based on what license you would like to apply for. This guide explains how it works in a clear and simple way. To start the process, you can check your eligibility here.
In South Australia, building work is generally made up of two parts:
These are different, and depending on your situation, you may need one or both.
A contractor license allows you to run your own business under your own name or a company performing building work in line with your license conditions.
You will usually need this if you want to:
This applies even if you are a subcontractor. If you are contracting for work, you are generally required to hold a contractor licence.
A supervisor is responsible for overseeing how the work is carried out.
This includes:
A supervisor does not necessarily need to contract for the work themselves but can only work as an employee if they do not hold a contractors license as well.
When people talk about a “builder’s license”, they are usually referring to a contractor license that allows you to carry out residential (Class 1 & 10) or commercial (Class 2-9) building work .
This includes:
To do this type of work, you typically need:
These roles are often linked.
For example:
Your pathway depends on your experience, qualifications and how you plan to operate.
Completing a course does not mean you are licensed.
Training is only one part of the process. You must still apply for your license and be approved by Consumer and Business Services (CBS) ph: 131 882
Start by identifying the type of work you want to carry out.
You might be:
Your pathway will depend on this.
There is no single training pathway that applies to everyone.
Depending on your situation, you may need:
It is important to confirm this before enrolling so you do not complete unnecessary training.
If training is required, you will need to complete the courses or units relevant to your pathway.
This may include:
Training supports your application, but it does not result in a license on its own.
Once your training is complete, or if you already hold the required qualifications, you will need to prepare your application.
This may involve providing:
You will need to submit your application online to Consumer and Business Services.
This is a separate step from training.
Your license is only issued after your application has been assessed and approved.
Depending on your circumstances, you may be asked to:
Not all applicants will be required to do this, but it is part of the process for some.
Once your application has been assessed and approved, you will be issued your license by Consumer and Business Services.
Only at this point can you carry out building work in your own name.
It is very common to be unsure which pathway applies to you.
This is because:
Try checking your eligibility at the button here.
If you are still unsure, it is best to contact our team before enrolling. We can help you understand your likely pathway and avoid completing the wrong training.
You may also find answers to some frequently asked questions
Training is just one step in the process, not the final step.
