What is a QBCC Licence?
A QBCC licence is a mandatory credential issued by the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) that authorises individuals and companies to carry out building and trade work in Queensland. Without a valid QBCC licence, it is illegal to perform regulated building work in the state.
Detailed Explanation
The QBCC administers the licensing framework under the Queensland Building and Construction Commission Act 1991 and the Building Industry Fairness (Security of Payment) Act 2017. Licences are categorised by trade type (e.g., builder, plumber, electrician, drainer) and class (e.g., open, restricted to certain project values).
Applicants must demonstrate relevant qualifications, technical experience, and financial requirements. The QBCC also conducts ongoing compliance checks and can suspend or cancel licences for non-compliance, defective work, or financial issues.
Key licence classes include:
- Builder — Open: Unlimited domestic and commercial building work
- Builder — Medium Rise: Buildings up to three storeys
- Builder — Low Rise: Buildings up to two storeys
- Trade Contractor: Specific trade categories (plumbing, electrical, carpentry, etc.)
- Fire Protection: Specialised fire safety installation and maintenance
State Variations
| State/Territory | Equivalent Body | Licence Name |
|---|---|---|
| QLD | QBCC | QBCC Licence |
| NSW | NSW Fair Trading | Home Building Licence |
| VIC | Victorian Building Authority (VBA) | Building Practitioner Registration |
| WA | Building Services Board | Building Services Registration |
| SA | Consumer and Business Services | Building Work Contractor Licence |
| TAS | Consumer, Building and Occupational Services | Building Licence |
| ACT | Access Canberra | Builder Licence |
| NT | NT Building Practitioners Board | Building Practitioner Registration |
How It Relates to Licence Verification
When hiring a tradesperson in Queensland, verifying their QBCC licence is the single most important step you can take to protect yourself. The QBCC provides a free online licence search tool where you can check a tradie’s licence status, class, and any disciplinary history.
TradieVerify aggregates QBCC licence data alongside other state registries, letting you verify a tradie’s credentials in one place regardless of which state they are licensed in. This is especially useful for projects near state borders or when hiring a company that operates across multiple jurisdictions.