Construction & Infrastructure Lawyers Australia
Summary
Astris Law advises Australian builders, contractors and infrastructure businesses on construction contracts, security of payment claims under BCIPA, QBCC licensing, WHS compliance, subcontractor agreements, defects claims and construction dispute resolution through adjudication and litigation.
Legal Services for Construction & Infrastructure in Australia
We have experience working with building and construction firm owners (as well as trade business owners) where the owner's daily operations are often dominated by a relentless volume of contract, regulatory, OHS, employment and compliance hurdles. While we are not specialists in construction or large-scale property development per se, our clients value our pragmatic approach over narrow technical specialisation to help them run their business smoothly. We view these matters as one part of a larger commercial picture, ensuring that legal advice serves the survival and stability of the business.
Astris Law provides tailored legal advice for construction & infrastructure businesses across Australia. We understand the unique regulatory challenges, commercial pressures and risk profile of your industry, and we deliver practical, commercially focused legal solutions.
How We Can Help
Key Challenges We Address
Key Legislation & Regulations
Frequently Asked Questions
What is security of payment and how do I make a claim in Queensland?
Security of payment under the Building and Construction Industry Payments Act 2004 (Qld) (BCIPA) gives contractors and subcontractors a statutory right to progress payments. To make a claim, you serve a payment claim on the respondent who must respond within the statutory timeframe. If disputed, the matter can proceed to adjudication for a binding determination.
What construction contract types are used in Australia?
Common construction contract types in Australia include AS2124 (general conditions), AS4000 (general conditions of contract), ABIC (Australian Building Industry Contracts), FIDIC (international projects) and bespoke contracts. Each has different risk allocation, payment mechanisms and dispute resolution procedures.
What are QBCC licensing requirements for builders in Queensland?
The Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) requires builders and trade contractors to hold a licence appropriate to the scope and value of work undertaken. Requirements include financial capacity, technical qualifications, insurance and compliance with the QBCC Act 1991 including trust account obligations for certain contract values.
What is BCIPA and how does adjudication work in Queensland?
The Building and Construction Industry Payments Act 2004 (Qld) (BCIPA) provides a rapid statutory adjudication process for resolving payment disputes in the construction industry. A claimant serves a payment claim, and if the respondent fails to pay or disputes the amount, the claimant may refer the matter to an adjudicator who must decide the dispute within tight statutory timeframes. Adjudication decisions are enforceable as a judgment debt, and failure to comply can result in suspension of works and direct payment rights against the principal.
What are the QBCC licensing requirements for builders in Queensland?
All individuals and companies performing building work in Queensland must hold the appropriate class of QBCC licence for the category and financial value of work undertaken. Applicants must demonstrate technical qualifications or experience, meet minimum financial requirements including a net tangible assets test, hold adequate insurance and satisfy the fit and proper person criteria under the QBCC Act 1991. Licensees performing residential construction work above certain contract thresholds must also comply with project trust account obligations.
Written by Jamie Nuich, Principal of Astris Law
Need a lawyer who understands construction & infrastructure? Talk to Astris Law.
We work directly with directors in construction & infrastructure across Australia. No layers, no committees. One lawyer who understands both the law and your industry.
Relevant Practice Areas for Construction & Infrastructure
Dispute Resolution & Litigation
Strategic commercial litigation, debt recovery and dispute resolution across Queensland and Australian courts.
Employment
Guidance on Fair Work Act compliance, unfair dismissal, modern awards and workplace relations.
Property
Commercial property transactions, development, leasing and property dispute resolution.