Victoria • Builder

Builder Licence Requirements in Victoria

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

Licensing Body

Builder licences in Victoria are issued and regulated by:

Victorian Building Authority (VBA)

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Do You Need a Licence?

Yes — a licence is required

You must hold a valid licence to carry out builder work in Victoria. This is regulated by Victorian Building Authority (VBA). Working without a licence is illegal and may result in significant fines.

Licence Types Available

Registered Domestic Builder — Unlimited

All domestic building work with no value limit

Registered Domestic Builder — Limited

Domestic building work up to a specified value

Registered Commercial Builder

Commercial building work

Requirements

To obtain a builder licence in Victoria, you need:

  • Diploma of Building and Construction (CPC50220) or equivalent
  • Minimum 5 years industry experience
  • Domestic building insurance for work over $16,000
  • Public liability insurance
  • Construction induction card (White Card)

Costs

Fee Type Amount
Application Fee $632 for domestic builder — unlimited registration
Renewal Fee $632 triennially
Renewal Period 3 years

Penalties for Unlicensed Work

Unregistered domestic building work in Victoria carries fines up to $46,294 for individuals. The VBA can also issue building notices, building orders, and pursue prosecution.

Exemptions

A licence is not required for the following work in Victoria:

  • Domestic building work valued under $10,000 (non-structural)
  • Owner-builder work on your own home (with Owner Builder Certificate of Consent for work over $16,000)
  • Minor maintenance, repairs, and painting
  • Garden landscaping not involving structures or retaining walls

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a licence to work as a builder in Victoria?
Yes, you need a licence to carry out builder work in Victoria. The licensing body is Victorian Building Authority (VBA). Working without a valid licence is illegal and can result in significant penalties.
How much does a builder licence cost in Victoria?
The application fee for a builder licence in Victoria is $632 for domestic builder — unlimited registration. Renewal costs $632 triennially and must be renewed every 3 years. Additional costs may include public liability insurance and any required assessments.
What qualifications do I need to become a licensed builder in Victoria?
To obtain a builder licence in Victoria, you typically need: Diploma of Building and Construction (CPC50220) or equivalent; Minimum 5 years industry experience; Domestic building insurance for work over $16,000. Check with Victorian Building Authority (VBA) for the complete list of requirements.
What are the penalties for unlicensed builder work in Victoria?
Unregistered domestic building work in Victoria carries fines up to $46,294 for individuals. The VBA can also issue building notices, building orders, and pursue prosecution.
Can I use my Victoria builder licence in other states?
Victoria builder 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 Builder Requirements in Other States

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

Queensland (QLD)
New South Wales (NSW)
Western Australia (WA)
South Australia (SA)
Tasmania (TAS)
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Northern Territory (NT)

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