In QLD any painters undertaking painting work for $3,300 including GST (materials and labour) need to have a QBCC painters licence. The QBCC (The Queensland Building and Construction Commission) is the body in charge of issuing trade contractor licences including the painting and decorating class. 

Individuals or companies must be licenced and have a Trade Contractor grade licence. Painting Companies also need to have a nominee supervisor, that acts and supervises on behalf of the company. Licenced tradespeople need to maintain standards of workmanship to avoid penalties and license suspension. You can check on the QBCC website if the painting company has committed offences in the past.

What are the advantages of engaging licensed contractors?

It is highly recommended that you check the licence status of your painter or painting company before engaging in a new contract with them. Licenced contractors need to meet certain requirements to be licenced. These include:

• The completion of a Certificate III in painting and decorating through an apprenteship or RPL, that involves having previous experience as a painter.
• To complete a managerial course approved by QBCC
• Meeting the relevant financial requirements

When hiring a licenced contractor you’ll know that the painter has met the minimal requirements and has experience as a painter.