NSW Builders Licence Mutual Recognition

Those who wish to transfer their licence to NSW are in luck. A relatively straightforward process is in place to give mutual recognition across state borders. 


Mutual Recognition in NSW: An Overview


Mutual recognition is a process wherein individuals are permitted to perform work in another state, territory, or New Zealand. This is not applicable to partnerships or corporations. 

The NSW Department of Fair Trading serves as state regulator for mutual recognition NSW builders’ licence. The form and explanatory notes to perform residential building work under mutual recognition are posted on their website. 

Some information or documents requested are the following: 

  • Certified copy of the current licence card or certificate that shows existing registration in another state or territory
  • Financial and Criminal history
  • Proof of identity
  • For contractor licences applying for Building Work category: insurance under the Home Building Compensation Fund (HBCF) or at least a certificate of eligibility to get insurance under the HBCF

Automatic Mutual Recognition 


Recognised interstate licensees don’t need an NSW licence unless they change their primary residence to NSW. This is like having a driver’s licence from another state that can be used to drive legally on NSW roads. 

The recognised interstate licensee must comply with the same laws as NSW licence holders while working in NSW. Disciplinary and enforcement action can be taken against them if they fail to do so. 


Be a Nominated Supervisor through Automatic Mutual Recognition


A local licence holder covered under Automatic Mutual Recognition can be a qualified supervisor for a NSW contractor company. They can also be nominated as a supervisor for a partnership licence. Please visit NSW Fair Trading’s Nominated Qualified Supervisors Page for more information. 

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Timeline for Processing Applications


NSW Fair Trading will check the documents and release their decision within 28 days from submission. In the meantime, the applicant will have a “deemed registration” until the actual registration is granted or denied. 

Registration may be refused or postponed for the following reasons: 

  • Information given is misleading or materially false
  • Failure to give the required information
  • The applicant’s situation has materially changed since the time he filed his notice
  • The occupation being applied for is not an equivalent occupation 

In such cases, the application may be postponed for up to 6 months. During this time, the applicant is mutually recognised until regulators decide to act on the application again. 


Not All Can Benefit from Automatic Mutual Recognition Fair Trading


The provisions that don’t require an NSW licence are only applicable to specific occupations listed in the regulation. 

Licensees in other occupations must undergo an application process to have their licence recognised by NSW. 


Check if You’re Qualified for Mutual Recognition Fair Trading


It is essential to provide all relevant documentation to support your application for mutual recognition. This is critical, especially for those who have been insolvent, bankrupt, or subject to financial conditions. Failure to provide this information may lead to your application being rejected. 

Do you feel lost in navigating through the application process? Or do you think you’re not qualified to have a mutual recognition NSW builders licence? Careers and Licensing Australia can help you through the process with ease. Call us today on 1300 161 636 or email nward@cala.net.au for enquiries.

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