Queensland’s regulator is stepping up its game. In FY22–23, the QBCC issued 313 fines to individuals for unlicensed contracting and related offences. By FY23–24, the focus shifted heavily toward prosecutions, with compliance teams targeting those trying to operate outside the rules. The message is blunt: if you’re on site without the right licence, you’re a target.

Over the past year, QBCC officers have conducted 1,334 site visits and 4,681 licence audits, uncovering 29 unlicensed contractors. “Unlicensed contracting” now makes up almost a third of all QBCC investigations. Fewer on-the-spot fines are being issued because more cases are heading straight to court, where penalties can be far more damaging.

Those court penalties are nothing to shrug off. In early 2024, one contractor was fined $15,000 and warned they were on the cusp of jail time. Others have faced fines up to $25,000, with convictions that will follow them for years. These aren’t just costs — they’re reputational body blows.

If you’re working in Queensland, ask yourself: are you certain your licence covers every service you’re offering? Are your subcontractors licensed for the work they’re doing? A quick eligibility check and proper advice now can be the difference between running your business tomorrow — or losing it in a single site visit.

Don’t wait for the QBCC to knock on your door. If you’re unsure whether your current licence type is valid, need to apply for a new one, or have a renewal coming up, now is the time to act.

Our nationwide team of construction licence specialists can:

• Check if you have the right licence for the work you’re doing

• Guide you through renewals before you risk suspension or fines

• Handle new applications to get you licensed quickly and correctly

Book a consultation today with our licence specialists for only $200 and protect your livelihood. A simple conversation could save you thousands in fines – and keep your business running smoothly.