If you are planning to apply for a QBCC licence, whether it is a Trade Contractor Licence or a Builder Licence, timing is going to be critical. The process can feel like navigating a complex maze, with different steps, requirements, and wait times depending on the type of licence you are pursuing. At Licensing Advice, we are here to simplify it for you, breaking down the timelines and helping you get started at the right moment.
Here is a key takeaway. Applications take some time, and the busiest period for applications nation wide is May to August, when submission volumes spike and processing times stretch. If you are aiming to kick off your trade career or launch a building business in the new financial year (starting July), now is the time to act and not leaving it weeks before you need it. Let us dive into the timelines for both Trade and Builder licences so you can plan ahead.
Trade Contractor Licence Timeline
A Trade Contractor Licence, for example for electricians, plumbers, or carpenters, is typically faster to process than a Builder Licence, but it still requires careful preparation. Here is how the timeline breaks down.
Step 1: Gathering Your Documents (Self Paced)
It all starts with you. We will need your qualifications, financial records, and other supporting documents. How quickly this step moves depends on how fast you can pull everything together. Do not worry. We will provide a clear checklist to keep you on track.
Step 2: We Prepare Your Application (1 Week)
Once we have your documents, our team at Licensing Advice swings into action. We will compile and polish your application to meet QBCC standards. For trade licences, this takes us about one week. It is fast, efficient, and thorough.
Step 3: Lodging the Application (5 Business Days)
Once your application is submitted, and it takes around 5 business days for the QBCC to receive it. This is a small but important window to factor in.
Step 4: QBCC Assessment (6 to 8 Weeks)
Here is where patience comes in. The QBCC assesses your application, checking your qualifications, experience, and financials. For trade licences, this typically takes 6 to 8 weeks. It can take longer if it is peak season (May to August).
Step 5: Checklist Response (Up to 3 Weeks)
It is common for the QBCC to provide a "Checklist" which is where they will request additional information, the QBCC can make mistakes in this request which we can step in and correct them on your behalf and prepare tailed responses for you. This checklist can be full of jargon and not clear steps of what to do next, we'll analyse the request and filter through this and provide you with advice on what exactly is being asked for and how it relates to your circumstance
Step 6: Internal Review (Up to 60 Days)
If the QBCC refuses your application, we can go through what's called Internal review or in other words the dispute process.The QBCC can refuse an application incorrectly which we can dispute on your behalf to ensure a successful outcome. A licensing officer with a higher seniority will review your case and provide another decision.
Total Estimated Time: 8 to 12 weeks (assuming no hiccups), but this can stretch to 14 or more weeks during peak periods.
Builder Licence Timeline
A Builder Licence, for example for low rise, medium rise, or open building work, involves more complexity and scrutiny, so the process naturally takes longer. Here is what to expect.
Step 1: Gathering Your Documents (Self Paced)
Just like with trade licences, we will need your documents. Think qualifications, financials, and project experience. This step is in your hands, but we will make it easy with a tailored checklist.
Step 2: We Prepare Your Application (3 to 4 Weeks)
Builder applications are more intricate, requiring detailed evidence of your experience and capacity. Our team at Licensing Advice takes 3 to 4 weeks to craft a rock solid application including contacting your references and preparing the referee report that showcases your skills and meets QBCC requirements. If your references takes time to get back to us, this can delay this stage of the process.
Step 3: Lodging the Application (5 Business Days)
Once submitted, expect 5 business days for the QBCC to receive it. It is a small step, but every day counts.
Step 4: QBCC Assessment (8 to 10 Weeks)
The QBCC digs deep into builder applications, reviewing your technical and financial eligibility. This takes 8 to 10 weeks, which is longer than trades, and can extend further during the May to August rush.
Step 5: Checklist Response (Up to 3 Weeks)
It is common for the QBCC to provide a "Checklist" which is where they will request additional information, the QBCC can make mistakes in this request which we can step in and correct them on your behalf and prepare tailed responses for you. This checklist can be full of jargon and not clear steps of what to do next, we'll analyse the request and filter through this and provide you with advice on what exactly is being asked for and how it relates to your circumstance
Step 6: Internal Review (Up to 60 Days)
If the QBCC refuses your application, we can go through what's called Internal review or in other words the dispute process.The QBCC can refuse an application incorrectly which we can dispute on your behalf to ensure a successful outcome. A licensing officer with a higher seniority will review your case and provide another decision.
Total Estimated Time: 12 to 16 weeks (without complications), potentially 18 or more weeks in peak season.
Why Timing Matters
The QBCC processes thousands of applications each year, and the May to August period is their busiest period typically. During these months, assessment times can blow out, leaving you waiting longer than expected. If you are planning to start work or launch your business in the new financial year (July onwards), submitting your application now, well before the rush, gives you a head start.
For trades, aim to get your documents to us by early April to hit a July start. For builders, with the longer timeline, mid March is ideal. The earlier, the better.
At Licensing Advice, we assist you trhoguh the entire application process including assessing all your documents to ensure they will be accepted, preparing your application in full, lodging the application, helping you deal with checklists and even preparing the dispute application through internal review.
Expert Preparation: We know what the QBCC looks for and tailor your application to avoid delays.
Time Savings: Our streamlined process cuts down your workload, letting you focus on your trade or business.
Support at Every Step: From document collection to responding to QBCC requests, we have got your back.
Whether you are chasing a Trade Contractor Licence or a Builder Licence, we are here to get you licenced and working, without the stress.
Opportunity Cost: Let us handle the application whilst you work on your business, don't take what little time you have to attempt this yourself, wait all this time only to receive an unsuccessful outcome and miss out on that project that you have right in front of you.
Ready to Start?
Don't wait until peak season. If you are aiming for a licence in the new financial year, or in the coming months now is the time to act. Contact us today, and let us get your QBCC application rolling and let us give you peace of mind.
Need assistance with your Application?
Book your FREE 15 Minute Consultation with our Licensing Experts to get your Trade or Builders Licence underway!
