Western Australia • Builder

Builder Licence Requirements in Western Australia

Everything you need to know about builder licensing in Western Australia — 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 Western Australia are issued and regulated by:

Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS)

Visit official website

Do You Need a Licence?

Yes — a licence is required

You must hold a valid licence to carry out builder work in Western Australia. This is regulated by Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS). Working without a licence is illegal and may result in significant fines.

Licence Types Available

Building Contractor Registration — Unrestricted

All types of residential and commercial building work

Building Contractor Registration — Group 1 (Houses)

Residential building work up to 3 storeys

Building Contractor Registration — Group 2 (Alterations)

Alteration and renovation work on existing buildings

Requirements

To obtain a builder licence in Western Australia, you need:

  • Diploma of Building and Construction (CPC50220) or equivalent
  • Minimum 5 years industry experience (3 years supervisory)
  • Home indemnity insurance for residential work over $20,000
  • Public liability insurance
  • Construction induction card (White Card)

Costs

Fee Type Amount
Application Fee $785 for building contractor registration
Renewal Fee $496 triennially
Renewal Period 3 years

Penalties for Unlicensed Work

Unregistered building work in WA carries fines up to $50,000 for individuals. DMIRS can also issue building remediation orders, stop-work orders, and prosecute offenders.

Exemptions

A licence is not required for the following work in Western Australia:

  • Work valued under $7,500 (non-structural, non-specialist)
  • Owner-builder work with an Owner Builder Approval (for work over $20,000)
  • Minor maintenance, repairs, and painting
  • Garden landscaping not involving structures

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a licence to work as a builder in Western Australia?
Yes, you need a licence to carry out builder work in Western Australia. The licensing body is Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS). Working without a valid licence is illegal and can result in significant penalties.
How much does a builder licence cost in Western Australia?
The application fee for a builder licence in Western Australia is $785 for building contractor registration. Renewal costs $496 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 Western Australia?
To obtain a builder licence in Western Australia, you typically need: Diploma of Building and Construction (CPC50220) or equivalent; Minimum 5 years industry experience (3 years supervisory); Home indemnity insurance for residential work over $20,000. Check with Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS) for the complete list of requirements.
What are the penalties for unlicensed builder work in Western Australia?
Unregistered building work in WA carries fines up to $50,000 for individuals. DMIRS can also issue building remediation orders, stop-work orders, and prosecute offenders.
Can I use my Western Australia builder licence in other states?
Western Australia 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)
Victoria (VIC)
South Australia (SA)
Tasmania (TAS)
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Northern Territory (NT)

Ready to verify a builder?

Check any builder's licence status in Western Australia instantly. Free and sourced from official registers.

Check a Licence