Let's start on your compliance items

You are now ready to start working on your owner builder compliance items. This is part of getting you ready for construction, and it will ensure you and your project are approved to owner build.


We will step you through the requirements for officially becoming an owner builder. The first one is ensuring you complete an owner builder course.

What is the Owner Builder Course?

The Owner Builder Course is a mandatory training program that teaches you the legal, safety, and project management responsibilities of managing your own residential build in NSW. It must be completed before applying for an Owner Builder Permit.

Why is this Needed?

This course ensures you understand your legal duties, safety obligations, and the requirements for supervising or managing a residential building project. It’s a key step in gaining approval to act as an Owner Builder and helps protect you and your trades throughout the project.

Our Recommendations

1. You can complete the course through any company that passes Fair Trading requirements. We recommend using Absolute Education. Go to the ABED course page: https://www.abed.com.au/CoursePrices.aspx

2. Select your state. Choose NSW from the course menu to access the correct version of the course and review notes.

2. Click the “Register for Free” button (top right).

  • Create your account
  • Select NSW Owner Builder Course
  • Price: $185

3. Complete the course modules online. The course is self-paced and typically takes 6–8 hours. Modules include:

  • Owner Builder responsibilities
  • Legal obligations under NSW law
  • Construction safety
  • Site management and insurances

4. Complete the WHS unit (CPCCWHS1001). This unit — Prepare to Work Safely in the Construction Industry — is a mandatory White Card qualification. If you already have a White Card, you may not need to retake this module.

5. Pass the final assessments: You must complete and pass multiple-choice quizzes and case study-based assessments for each section.

6. Receive your Statement of Attainment. Once complete, your PDF certificate will be emailed to you. This is your proof of course completion and is required when applying for your Owner Builder Permit with NSW Fair Trading.

Once Received

Once you've received your Owner Builder Course certificate, upload it to the Document Library and then click the orange “Mark Complete” button to move to the next step in your construction workflow.