If you’re planning to build in Queensland as an owner builder, there are specific requirements you must meet before you can legally commence construction.
This guide explains:
Whether you need an Owner Builder Permit in QLD
When an owner builder course is required
How to complete the course with a trusted provider
An Owner Builder Permit in QLD allows you to personally manage and carry out building work on your own property.
It is separate from a Building Permit, which is issued by your local Council or private certifier.
In Queensland, if the value of the building work exceeds $11,000, you must obtain an Owner Builder Permit from the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC).
If your project exceeds the $11,000 threshold, you're required to complete an approved owner builder course before applying for your permit.
This course ensures you understand:
Completing the course is a mandatory step before your permit application can proceed.
After reviewing multiple approved training providers across Australia, we confidently recommend Absolute Education. They are:
They understand the building industry and what owner builders actually need.
Simply click Get Started, complete a few basic details and either Gemma or Peter will guide you through the process.
Cost: The Owner Builder Course is $185.00, payable upon passing (and yes, most people do).
Let them know we sent you by adding the code OBC at Step 4 in the registration process 😉
In Queensland, Owner Builders are not automatically required to hold a White Card purely to obtain their permit.
However, if you plan to personally carry out construction work on site, you are considered a worker under Work Health and Safety laws and you will require a General Construction Induction Card (White Card).
This regulation was updated in June 2022.
To find more state government info – click here.
If you're at the start of the process, we highly recommend you contact your local Council planning office (see link below).
To find your local Council – click here.
If you’re still in the early research stage, your first call should be your local Council planning department. They can clarify zoning, planning requirements and whether a Development Application will be required.
Once you’ve decided to proceed and have:
Completed your Owner Builder course
Obtained your White Card (if required)
Finalised your design plans
Prepared accurate cost estimates
Here’s what happens next:
Apply for your Owner Builder Permit through the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC).
You’ll need to declare your estimated material and labour costs as part of this application.
Once your permit is approved and receipted, you can apply for your Building Approval (Development Approval) before any work begins.
Building approval can be obtained through your local Council or a private certifier.
Your approval documentation will outline the mandatory inspection stages throughout the build.
No approvals = no building.
Follow this link to the QBCC – click here.
Find your local Council – click here.
Once your Owner Builder Permit is approved, it’s important to make sure you’re properly protected before construction begins. While Queensland does not require a specific “Owner Builder Insurance” policy to obtain building approval, most owner builders take out:
Public Liability Insurance
Construction (Contract Works) Insurance
Workers’ Compensation (if employing paid workers)
As the owner builder, you’re legally responsible for the site so having the right cover in place can protect you from major financial risk.
Run your build with clarity and confidence using our stage-by-stage system. Know what to do, when to do it and how to avoid expensive mistakes. Built with registered builders for serious owner builders who want control not chaos.
Before you commit time and money, make sure it’s the right decision for your finances, risk tolerance and lifestyle. A short, practical course to help you decide with confidence.
