Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) officers checked the licences of 105 individuals as part of an ongoing campaign around the State to stamp out unlicensed, illegal and defective work.
QBCC Commissioner, Anissa Levy, says another individual was suspected of hiring an unlicensed worker and officers detected a further 17 offences relating to non-compliant signage.
“The four people suspected of performing unlicensed work and the builder suspected of engaging an unlicensed worker are now subject to further investigations which could result in prosecution,” Commissioner Levy says.
“Those with non-compliant signage will receive warnings, however, if our investigations reveal any repeat offenders, our regulatory action will be more rigorous.”
While the QBCC’s ongoing audit campaign reveals most contractors are doing the right thing at building sites, Commissioner Levy says, it is important to catch those who think they can flout the law.
“Ultimately, it is about making sure building work is done appropriately to help protect property owners and workers from financial risks or defective building work,” Commissioner Levy says.
“These audits also ensure there is an equitable environment for our licensees by identifying and penalising unlawful operators.”
Commissioner Levy says the audits also provide an opportunity for officers to engage with licensees and property owners to raise awareness of topical issues, provide them with advice on their rights and responsibilities, and information about the role of the QBCC.
“These positive interactions with industry and our consumers help us build strong relationships, which in turn helps foster a culture of compliance and safer construction practices.”
In the 2023-2024 financial year, QBCC officers conducted 1,134 building site audits around the State which resulted in 4,681 licence audits. Of these, 29 were identified as unlicensed contractors.
Background
An individual or company caught working without a licence can be issued with fines of up to $3,226 or prosecuted in court. Repeat offending can lead to imprisonment for up to a year.
Public licence register
The QBCC website provides free information to help home and property owners find a qualified, licensed local contractor.