Thinking About Becoming a Builder in Victoria? 8 Questions to Ask Yourself First

But registration under the Building and Plumbing Commission (BPC), formerly the VBA, requires careful preparation. Not everyone is ready immediately, and that’s normal.

If you’re exploring becoming a registered builder in Victoria, the best place to start is a clear, honest self-assessment. The questions below will help you understand where you stand today, what may be required, and whether you’re ready for the next stage of your career.

Question 1: Do I understand what registration in Victoria actually means?

Before you take any practical steps, it’s important to understand what a builder’s registration allows you to do, and what it requires of you.

In Victoria, registration through the BPC enables you to:

• take on domestic building work over $10,000

• enter into domestic building contracts

• supervise and manage construction work

• be named as the builder on a building permit

• take responsibility for compliance, safety, and workmanship

With registration comes accountability. You’ll be responsible for ensuring work meets the National Construction Code, Australian Standards, and all Victorian building regulations.

If that opportunity and responsibility align with where you want your career to go, registration is a logical next step.

Question 2: Am I ready for the level of responsibility that comes with registration?

Being a registered builder is about leadership, decision-making, and compliance. You need to be comfortable taking ownership of:

• client communication

• project planning and sequencing

• contract management

• site safety

• mandatory notifications and inspections

• supervising other trades

A simple self-check is to ask: Would I be confident explaining my decisions to the BPC or an inspector?

If the answer is “yes,” you may already be operating at a builder’s level.

If “not yet,” that’s perfectly fine. It simply means you may need more supervision experience before applying.

Question 3: Which category of building registration am I aiming for?

Question 4: Do I meet the experience or qualification requirements?

Victoria offers two pathways toward registration:

1. Qualification Pathway

Ideal for those who hold formal building qualifications like a Certificate IV or Diploma in building and construction.

2. Experience Pathway

Designed for tradespeople and supervisors who don’t hold a formal qualification but can demonstrate the equivalent level of skill and knowledge through detailed work history.

Not sure which pathway to go down? This comparison may help:

If you’re unsure, your experience level, role on past projects, and scope of work completed will guide the best fit.

Question 5: Can I demonstrate my skills through evidence?

For both pathways, the BPC expects documentation that shows you can perform and manage domestic building work. This evidence typically includes:

• plans you have interpreted or worked from

• contracts or job scopes you delivered

• photos of completed work

• site diaries or job records

• WHS processes you’ve followed

• examples of supervising trades

• details of complex problem-solving on jobs

A good question to ask yourself: If I had to prove my skills to an assessor tomorrow, what evidence could I provide?

If you can already produce a detailed list, you’re in a strong position. If not, you may simply need more time on-site or guidance on how to document your work.

Question 6: Do I understand the steps to become a registered builder in VIC?

The journey to becoming a registered builder has several stages. Understanding them early helps you prepare strategically.

The general sequence looks like this:

1. Choose your registration category  

2. Determine your pathway — qualification or experience

3. Prepare your work evidence

4. Complete any required training or knowledge preparation

5. Submit your application to the BPC

6. Complete your interview if required

7. Receive the BPC’s decision

Knowing this structure upfront reduces surprises and helps you plan your timeline.

Question 7: Am I confident in the business and compliance side of building?

As a registered builder, you’re not just doing the work, you’re running the job. That involves:

• understanding domestic building contracts

• quoting and estimating

• managing subcontractors

• cash flow

• insurance obligations (including DBI where relevant)

• dispute management

• keeping jobs compliant and documentation organised

If you feel confident with most of these responsibilities, you’re already thinking like a builder. If not, these are skills you can develop as you prepare your application.

Question 8: Do I want support through the registration process?

Becoming a registered builder in Victoria can be complex, especially when gathering evidence, preparing documentation, or understanding what the BPC expects.

Having support ensures you:

• prepare the right evidence

• avoid common mistakes

• feel confident before your technical and interview assessments

• understand exactly where you stand and what’s required next

If you prefer a structured, guided approach that reduces uncertainty, support like what we provide can make the entire process smoother and far less stressful.

Your Future as a Registered Builder Starts Here

Registration in Victoria opens the door to bigger opportunities and a more secure future in the industry. Asking the right questions early helps you understand your readiness, identify any gaps, and take clear, confident steps forward.

If you’re considering becoming a builder in Victoria, start by checking where you stand. Use our 60-second eligibility check to get a quick snapshot of your readiness and the pathway that suits your experience.