What does the QBCC do?

First, what the QBCC is not

We’re not a trade body or membership organisation and we are not involved in council matters such as local planning schemes, zoning or development approvals.  

We’re Queensland’s building and construction regulator—appointed by the Queensland Government to operate independently with a clear intent: to ensure Queensland’s building and construction industry operates by the book.

What the QBCC does do

We take our responsibilities seriously because we have a big role to play in safeguarding lives and livelihoods.

At our core, we are responsible for regulation, and when it comes to licensees, we’re here for you. Our remit for our QBCC licensees focuses on:

1. Licensing—Let’s start with the basics. Before anyone can legally carry out building work in Queensland valued more than $3,300, they must be licensed. This means assessing whether individuals and companies meet the qualifications, experience, and financial standards required to operate in this complex and high-risk sector.
2. Education—We believe prevention is better than cure. That’s why the QBCC places a strong emphasis on sharing and engaging on a range of compliance-related information to help build understanding. We want to help licensees understand their rights and obligations so they are well prepared and can prevent issues before they arise.
3. Dispute resolution—If it gets to a point where you as a licence holder need support, we offer services to help resolve disagreements about progress payments and money owed. It’s a cost-effective alternative to court, and is available for all licensees.
4. Monitoring building products—We constantly regulate building products to safeguard everyone involved in their production, supply, and installation, ensuring that responsibility for product safety rests squarely with those who are accountable.
5. Audits and inspections—Last but not least, we ensure building work meets legal and professional standards, safeguarding both lives and livelihoods. Where issues arise, our first step is to work with you—providing guidance, support and education to help get things on track. In some cases, where serious or repeated non-compliance occurs, enforcement action such as penalties may be necessary. 

And while we’re firm on enforcing the rules, our approach is always guided by fairness. The overwhelming majority of professionals in this industry – you – do the right thing, and we believe in recognising your good work.

The numbers tell a clear story. In the 2024–25 financial year, there were more than 122,700 licensees across Queensland. Of these, around 9% faced suspension, and 5% of those progressed to cancellation. This means more than 90% of licensees continue to operate responsibly and uphold the standards that safeguard property owners and the reputation of the industry.

But we also know that 9% is still a significant number—especially in an industry facing a skills shortage. Every licence matters. That’s why our remit goes beyond enforcement. Through education, licensing, and audits, we’re working to reduce that number by helping licensees stay informed, compliant, and supported.

By stepping in early and holding non-compliant operators to account, we’re safeguarding the integrity of the profession—so that those doing the right thing aren’t undermined.

It’s a point worth repeating: prevention really is better than a cure.

So, while we’re not here to offer membership perks, we are here for something just as important: a thriving building and construction industry. This is achieved when the people within it feel informed, enabled and protected. 

Our role as a regulator means we hold a responsibility to minimise harm and safeguard those involved in building and construction in Queensland. 

Learn more about our roles and services.