OPEN BUILDER LICENcE AUSTRALIA | NSW, QLD, VIC, NT & WA
Learn how to obtain an Open Builders Licence in NSW, QLD, VIC, NT & WA. State-by-State requirements, recent changes & expert licensing support.
Open Builder Licence Pathways for Australian Builders
Fast, compliant builder licensing support for domestic and commercial construction across NSW, QLD, VIC, NT and WA.
If you’re a builder looking to operate legally and confidently across Australia, obtaining the correct open or unrestricted builder licence is essential. Licensing rules vary by state, and recent regulatory changes mean choosing the wrong pathway can lead to costly delays.
We specialise in building and construction licensing, helping builders secure the highest level of authority available in each state including Mutual Recognition pathways where applicable.
✔ Domestic & commercial builders
✔ Individuals and companies
✔ WA, QLD, NSW, VIC & NT pathways
State-by-State Builder Licensing Overview
New South Wales (NSW) – Builder Contractor Licensing
In NSW, builder licensing is managed by NSW Fair Trading. While there is no formal “open builder licence,” builders must hold the appropriate contractor licence for the type of building work they contract for. This applies to both residential and commercial construction and depends on work categories, business structure, and compliance history.
Best for: Builders contracting for general building work in NSW
Key focus: Correct licence class and compliance documentation
Queensland (QLD) – Builder Open Licence (QBCC)
Queensland offers a formal Builder – Open licence through the QBCC, making it one of the most sought-after jurisdictions for builders. This licence allows eligible builders to undertake a broad range of building work and is commonly used as a base for interstate Mutual Recognition.
Best for: Builders seeking broad construction authority
Key focus: Eligibility, structure, and financial requirements
Victoria (VIC) – Domestic Builder Unlimited
Victoria operates under a registration model through the Victorian Building Authority (VBA). Builders seeking an “open” outcome usually require Domestic Builder – Unlimited registration, allowing full responsibility for residential construction projects.
Recent reforms have strengthened oversight and suitability assessments, making correct application preparation more important than ever.
Best for: Residential builders in VIC
Key focus: Unlimited scope and compliance standards
Northern Territory (NT) – Building Practitioner Registration
The NT requires builders to be registered with the Building Practitioners Board. Licensing scope depends on the class of building work undertaken, including domestic and commercial projects.
Recent changes have expanded registration requirements, particularly for commercial construction, aligning the NT with national compliance trends.
Best for: Builders working in NT residential or commercial sectors
Key focus: Scope alignment and regulatory compliance
Western Australia (WA) – Registered Building Contractor
WA registration through the Building Services Board is a critical pathway for builders seeking Mutual Recognition. Registered building contractors can lawfully contract for regulated building work and transfer their licence interstate without repeating qualifications.
Best for: Builders using interstate licensing strategies
Key focus: Registration structure and supervisor requirements
