Become an Owner Builder in the ACT
In the ACT, owner–builders must be licensed under the Construction Occupations (Licensing) Act 2004. As an owner–builder, you take on the same responsibilities as a licensed builder, supervising your project and ensuring all work complies with the Building Act 2004.
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The Owner Builder Institute provides guidance and training resources to help you manage your project successfully.
Licence Classes & Scope
There is one class of owner–builder licence in the ACT. This licence allows you to undertake work on Class 1, Class 2, or Class 10a buildings, as defined by the Building Code of Australia.
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Please note: Specialist building work, such as demolition or swimming pool construction, is not authorized under this licence.
Applying for an Owner Builder Licence
To apply for an ACT Owner Builder licence, you’ll need to gather some key documents:
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Course or Licence Evidence: A copy of your Owner Builder course completion certificate, or a Class A, B, or C builder licence.
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Building Approval: A copy of your approved building application (BA).
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Once your documents are ready, you can start your application online. You can save your progress and return later—the application is only submitted once all documents are lodged and the fee is paid.
Assessments usually take at least four weeks.
Eligibility & Qualifications
To apply for an ACT owner–builder licence, you must:
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Complete an accredited owner–builder course within the last five years
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Hold an active Class A, B, or C builder licence in the ACT
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You or your workers must hold a Construction Induction White Card
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Complete mandatory asbestos awareness training 10314NAT
Your Legal Responsibilities
As an owner builder in the ACT, you must meet specific legal requirements before starting residential building work, based mainly on the type and value of your project.
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Work requiring an owner-builder approval
If your project involves residential building work that needs building approval (for example, a new home, major extension or significant structural work), you may be required to obtain an owner‑builder approval from ACT Government and be listed on the building approval as the owner builder. This confirms you understand your responsibilities and are taking on the role that a licensed builder would usually perform.
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Training and licence conditions
Owner builders must comply with ACT licensing and competency requirements that apply to their project, which may include holding relevant construction induction (white card) training and meeting any conditions set by the ACT planning authority. These obligations are designed to ensure you are capable of managing safety, approvals and supervision of work on your site.
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Always check for updates
Requirements, thresholds and approval processes can change over time. Before you apply or start work, always confirm the current owner‑builder rules and application steps through the official ACT Government planning website or by contacting the relevant directorate.
Planning Approvals
& Compliance
As an owner builder in the ACT, you must ensure your project has the correct planning and building approvals and is independently inspected so it is safe, compliant and lawful.
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Planning and building approval
Before construction starts, you may need development approval and must obtain building approval from a licensed building certifier. These approvals confirm that your project is allowed on your site and that your plans meet ACT planning rules, zoning controls and the technical standards of the National Construction Code.
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Inspections and completion
Your appointed certifier must inspect the work at critical stages, such as foundations, framing and final completion, to confirm it is built in accordance with the approved plans and relevant standards. You cannot lawfully occupy or use the building until the certifier is satisfied and issues the required completion documentation, so it is essential to follow their directions and keep records of all approvals, inspections and certificates.
Insurance
As an owner builder in the ACT, you step into many of the same responsibilities as a licensed builder and are in control of the building site.Â
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Public liability insurance
Because you control the site, you are responsible for managing risks to anyone who enters or is affected by your project. Public liability insurance is strongly recommended, as it can help protect you if a third party – such as a neighbour, visitor, tradie or delivery driver – is injured or their property is damaged because of your building work, by contributing to legal defence costs and compensation within policy limits.
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Contract works / construction insurance
Many owner builder policies can also include construction (contract works) cover, which insures the building works and materials against events like fire, storm, impact, vandalism or theft while your project is underway. This type of insurance helps ensure one major incident does not wipe out the money you have invested in your build or renovation.
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Insurance when you use licensed builders
If you engage a licensed builder for residential work that needs building approval and is over the ACT insurance threshold (for example, 12,000 dollars and above), that builder must normally obtain residential building work insurance or a fidelity certificate before work starts and provide you with evidence. As an owner builder, you should always check that any licensed builder or contractor you engage has the required insurance in place, and keep copies of their certificates with your project records.