Australian Capital Territory • Carpenter

Carpenter Licence Requirements in Australian Capital Territory

Everything you need to know about carpenter licensing in Australian Capital Territory — qualifications, costs, the licensing body, available licence types, and penalties for unlicensed work. Updated for the 2025–2026 financial year.

Licensing Body

Carpenter licences in Australian Capital Territory are issued and regulated by:

ACT Construction Occupations Registrar

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Do You Need a Licence?

Yes — a licence is required

You must hold a valid licence to carry out carpenter work in Australian Capital Territory. This is regulated by ACT Construction Occupations Registrar. Working without a licence is illegal and may result in significant fines.

Licence Types Available

Builder Licence — Carpentry (Class C)

Carpentry work as part of building construction in the ACT

Requirements

To obtain a carpenter licence in Australian Capital Territory, you need:

  • Certificate III in Carpentry (CPC30220 or equivalent)
  • Completed 4-year apprenticeship
  • ACT Construction Occupations licence
  • Public liability insurance
  • Construction induction card (White Card)

Costs

Fee Type Amount
Application Fee $355 for initial licence
Renewal Fee $295 annually
Renewal Period 1 year

Penalties for Unlicensed Work

Unlicensed carpentry work in the ACT can result in fines up to $48,000 for individuals. The Construction Occupations Registrar can issue demerit points and prohibition notices.

Exemptions

A licence is not required for the following work in Australian Capital Territory:

  • Minor repairs and maintenance
  • Non-structural timber work like shelving and minor fixtures
  • Owner-builder work on your own home

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a licence to work as a carpenter in Australian Capital Territory?
Yes, you need a licence to carry out carpenter work in Australian Capital Territory. The licensing body is ACT Construction Occupations Registrar. Working without a valid licence is illegal and can result in significant penalties.
How much does a carpenter licence cost in Australian Capital Territory?
The application fee for a carpenter licence in Australian Capital Territory is $355 for initial licence. Renewal costs $295 annually and must be renewed every 1 year. Additional costs may include public liability insurance and any required assessments.
What qualifications do I need to become a licensed carpenter in Australian Capital Territory?
To obtain a carpenter licence in Australian Capital Territory, you typically need: Certificate III in Carpentry (CPC30220 or equivalent); Completed 4-year apprenticeship; ACT Construction Occupations licence. Check with ACT Construction Occupations Registrar for the complete list of requirements.
What are the penalties for unlicensed carpenter work in Australian Capital Territory?
Unlicensed carpentry work in the ACT can result in fines up to $48,000 for individuals. The Construction Occupations Registrar can issue demerit points and prohibition notices.
Can I use my Australian Capital Territory carpenter licence in other states?
Australian Capital Territory carpenter licences are not automatically valid in other states. However, Australia's Mutual Recognition Act allows you to apply for an equivalent licence in another state through a streamlined process. You'll still need to lodge an application and may need to meet additional local requirements.

Compare Carpenter Requirements in Other States

Licence requirements vary between states. Compare carpenter requirements across Australia:

Queensland (QLD)
New South Wales (NSW)
Victoria (VIC)
Western Australia (WA)
South Australia (SA)
Tasmania (TAS)
Northern Territory (NT)

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