Insights · Construction ·
Getting paid in Queensland construction
Queensland’s security of payment laws give contractors a statutory process to get paid on time. Knowing the basics protects your cash flow.
The basics
- A payment claim sets out the work done and the amount claimed.
- The respondent must reply with a payment schedule within the required time if they intend to pay less.
- If they don’t pay, or disagree, you can apply for adjudication, a fast statutory process.
- Strict timeframes apply to every step.
Trust accounts
Some contracts require project trust accounts or retention trust accounts to protect money owed to subcontractors. Whether they apply depends on the contract type and value, and the rules have been phased in. Check QBCC’s current guidance.
Cash flow habits that help
- Claim on time, every time, in the format your contract requires.
- Diarise payment schedule deadlines.
- Chase early; know when to escalate.
This is legal territory; get legal advice on disputes. See 13-week cash flow forecast.
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General information only. This doesn’t take your circumstances into account and isn’t tax, financial or legal advice. Talk to your accountant or registered tax agent before acting. PRM is not a registered tax agent; tax agent services are provided by Australian Tax & Super Pty Ltd (TPB 25291395).