Building Contractor (WA)

Education and Training:

To become a building contractor you usually have to complete a VET qualification in building and construction. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.

Additional Information:

In April 2009, the Commonwealth, state and territory governments agreed to introduce a National Occupational Licensing System for a number of specified occupations. This new national system will replace the existing state-based licensing requirements. Existing state and territory licences in these occupations will automatically be transferred to an equivalent national licence, entitling the holder to use the licence to work anywhere in the country.

National licensing for building contractors is due to be implemented in July 2012. For full details see the National Occupational Licensing Authority website (http://nola.gov.au).

All those who work in the construction industry must undergo safety induction training and be issued with a Construction Induction Card (CIC). In WA, training is conducted by Registered Training Organisations authorised by WorkSafe WA.

Those with appropriate building qualifications are eligible to become members of the Australian Institute of Building.

Building contractors must be registered with the WA Building Commission in order to contract for or perform building work over the value of $20,000. For more information regarding registration contact the Building Commission.

Related Courses:

While the following courses are related to this occupation, they may not necessarily lead directly to employment, nor provide the most direct pathway to the occupation. Courses which provide preliminary or informal training, as well as those which provide additional job skills following initial qualifications may also be listed.

*Course is offered by more than one institution. Click link for details.

Employment Opportunities:

Most building contractors are self-employed as sole proprietors, work as partners in small companies or work as company directors in larger firms. Building contractors may specialise in one area of construction (e.g. new homes, extensions and renovations of established homes or commercial building construction).

Most work is available in the metropolitan area, although there are some opportunities to work in country areas, particularly in centres of mining activity. Due to variations in industry demand, employment opportunities are subject to change. In periods of low activity, builders with a trade qualification may seek alternative employment in their original trade area.