Painter’s licence requirements by state in Australia

Australia’s housing boom has increased demand for painters and decorators in many states. Working as a painting contractor can be financially lucrative and personally rewarding. But before you buy new brushes, you should check the painter licensing requirements in your area.

Each state in Australia has different rules, and with the correct prerequisites, you could become a certified painter and start working on projects in no time! Keep reading to learn the painter licence requirements in each state.

New South Wales

The Department of Fair Trading issues painting licences in NSW. It is required to have one before doing any work on residential buildings valued at more than $5,000 (including GST) in materials and labour.

Painter registration in NSW requires one of the following certifications:

• Certificate III in Painting and Decorating
• Certificate III in General Construction

Queensland

The Queensland Building and Construction Commission regulates painting licences in the state. A license is typically required if you are completing work valued over $3,300. To hold a licence, you need to demonstrate that you have the technical skills to perform the scope of work, as well as provide evidence of your business structure.

Victoria

To become a qualified painter in Victoria, you may need to have completed an apprenticeship or TAFE course. The Victoria Building Association (VBA) is the issuing body for painting licences, a subclass of the Domestic Builder license. It is necessary to register to perform residential work with a value of more than $10,000.

South Australia

South Australia does not issue painter licences. However, it is recommended that you have a building work contractor’s licence given under the Government’s Consumer Builder Services (CBS).

Western Australia

Painters in Western Australia must register as a painting contractor to perform work valued at $1,000 or more. You must demonstrate your painting knowledge, qualifications, and experience in order to register.

Tasmania

Painters in Tasmania are not required to carry a specific painting or contractor licence. However, you may need a general business license and Australian Business Number (ABN) to start a painting company.

Insurance for painters

Whether you are new to the industry or an experienced painter, there are a number of risks involved with a painting business. Insurance for painters can help you manage these risks, so they don’t leave you out of pocket if the unexpected happens.

You may consider Public Liability Insurance to cover your painting business in the event that a customer, supplier or member of the public is injured or sustains property damage. Portable Equipment insurance (part of a Business Insurance Package) can help you replace tools that are damaged, stolen, or lost, and Personal Accident and Illness insurance could help you cover one of your most important assets—yourself!

With BizCover, you can compare multiple quotes online in just minutes, making your business insurance experience drama-free.