So, you’re a tradie in NSW working on commercial projects (or hoping to). Well, it’s time to start planning ahead.

Proposed changes to NSW’s building industry are about to make it much harder to step into commercial construction without the right qualifications and licences. The NSW Building Reforms, set to introduce far stricter licensing requirements and penalties, mean now is the time for tradies to focus on getting compliant and qualified to stay competitive and avoid costly fines.

Key Licensing Changes and Why They Matter for Tradies

The Building Commission NSW, alongside industry experts, has developed a series of reforms that will reshape licensing in both residential and commercial construction. The main changes every commercial tradie needs to consider include:

1. New Licensing Categories for Commercial Construction
   Under the proposed reforms, new licence categories will target trades working on large-scale commercial properties. Tradies moving into the commercial property sector must meet these new requirements to operate legally. Ensuring compliance isn’t just about avoiding fines—it’s crucial to maintain credibility and a smooth workflow.
2. Specialist Trade Licences
   The reforms add “Specialist Trade Work” categories like Waterproofing. Under these changes, any waterproofing work on commercial property will require a specialist licence, regardless of the project’s value. Only NSW licensed waterproofers will be allowed to handle these tasks, making it essential for tradies to either obtain these licences or partner with qualified professionals.
3. Strict Penalties for Unlicensed Work
   The proposed fines are steep: companies could face penalties of up to $330,000, plus $33,000 for each additional day of unlicensed work, while individual tradies face fines starting at $60,000, with additional daily penalties. Both principal contractors and subcontractors will be affected, underscoring the need to secure the right licences in advance.

The Timeline: Why Preparing Now is Essential

Although these changes will phase in gradually from late 2025 to 2028, commercial tradies need to be proactive. Leaving licensing updates until the last minute can result in rushed, costly delays that impact project timelines. Early preparation is key to ensuring a smooth transition and uninterrupted work.

How Licensing Advice Can Help You Prepare for the Transition

At Licensing Advice, we provide expert support to help tradies get ready for these significant licensing changes. Here’s how we can assist:

• Navigating New Licensing Categories
  We specialise in guiding tradies through licensing requirements specific to commercial work. Our team can help you understand the qualifications and certifications you’ll need to comply with the new regulations confidently.
• Qualification Preparation
  In the case where you may be experienced in however not meet the qualification requirement for the proposed changes, we can always recommend a trusted RPL provider such as CertifyMe. Offering fast and affordable RPL services that can get you back on track for your licence. This way, you can get accredited efficiently, ready to meet the new requirements.
• Assistance with Specialist Trade Licences
  As new Specialist Trade licences come into effect, our licensing team will assist you in meeting specific requirements, like those for waterproofing. We ensure that you’re well-prepared to tackle any unique licensing demands in the commercial construction sector.
• Ongoing Compliance Pathways
  Licensing Advice will continue offering compliance pathways to help tradies stay licensed correctly as the NSW and Australia-wide licensing landscape evolves.

Stay Ahead in Commercial Construction with Licensing Advice

For tradies working in or aiming to enter commercial construction, understanding and adapting to these proposed NSW licensing requirements is a must. Start now to secure your licences and qualifications, ensuring you’re prepared for the future of commercial work.



Contact Licensing Advice today to ensure you’re ready for the NSW Building Reforms and positioned for long-term success in commercial construction.