Support, Advice & Action for Tradies

The construction industry can be brutal when it comes to late payments, unfair deductions, and contract disputes—but you don’t have to fight it alone. Whether you need legal support, financial help, or mental health resources, this page is packed with information to help you take action and protect yourself.

If you’ve been short-paid, backcharged unfairly, or left chasing money, explore the links below to find out how to fight back and get what you’re owed.

Resources for Tradies & Subcontractors Facing Unfair Treatment

If you’ve experienced non-payment, unfair deductions, backcharges, or contract disputes, you’re not alone. The construction industry can be tough, but there are resources, legal protections, and support services available to help you fight back.

Security of Payment Act (SOPA) – Get Paid for Your Work

The Security of Payment Act (SOPA) exists to protect subcontractors and ensure they get paid for completed work. Under SOPA, you have legal rights to claim payments, recover outstanding debts, and challenge unfair setoffs or deductions.

Key Benefits of SOPA

  • Right to Progress Payments – You must be paid for completed work within strict timeframes.
  • Quick Dispute Resolution – You can lodge a payment claim and access a fast-track adjudication process.
  • Penalties for Non-Payment – Builders that ignore valid claims can face legal consequences.

How to Make a SOPA Claim in Your State

The process and timeframes vary depending on your state. Find your relevant SOPA information below:

NSW – NSW Fair Trading – Security of Payment
VIC – VBA – Security of Payment Act
QLD – QBCC – Building and Construction Industry Payments
WA – DMIRS – Building & Construction Payment Laws
SA – Consumer and Business Services SA
TAS – Consumer, Building and Occupational Services

If you need help lodging a SOPA claim, speak to a construction lawyer or contact your state’s regulatory body for guidance.

Legal Help for Subcontractors

If you’re being refused payment, hit with unfair deductions, or facing contract disputes, you may need legal support. These services can help:

Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) – Free advocacy for small businesses facing unfair treatment. Visit: www.asbfeo.gov.au

Fair Work Ombudsman – Help with workplace rights, pay disputes, and underpayment issues. Visit: www.fairwork.gov.au

Master Builders Association (MBA) – Industry body offering legal support to builders and subcontractors. Visit: www.masterbuilders.com.au

LawAccess NSW – Free legal information and support for contract disputes. Visit: www.lawaccess.nsw.gov.au

Your State’s Law Society – Find a qualified construction lawyer in your area. Visit: www.lawcouncil.asn.au

Mental Health & Financial Support for Tradies

Financial stress and job uncertainty can take a toll on mental health. If you or a mate is struggling, help is available.

MATES in Construction – Suicide prevention & mental health support for tradies.
📞 24/7 Helpline: 1300 642 111
🌐 www.mates.org.au

Beyond Blue – Mental health support for stress, anxiety & depression.
📞 Helpline: 1300 22 4636
💬 Online Chat Available
🌐 www.beyondblue.org.au

Lifeline Australia – Crisis support & immediate help.
📞 24/7 Crisis Line: 13 11 14
💬 SMS Support: 0477 13 11 14
🌐 www.lifeline.org.au

National Debt Helpline – Free financial counselling for tradies struggling with unpaid invoices & cash flow issues.
📞 Helpline: 1800 007 007
🌐 www.ndh.org.au

Construction Industry Advocacy & Support

If you want to take action against unfair builder practices, these organisations can offer advice or advocate on your behalf.

Subcontractors Alliance – Fighting for the rights of tradies & subcontractors. Visit: www.subcontractorsalliance.com.au

Australian Contractors Association (ACA) – Advocates for fair payment and industry reform. Visit: www.constructors.com.au

Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Guide (ASIC) – Protecting tradies from unfair payment practices. Visit: www.asic.gov.au

How You Can Take Action

If you’ve been short-paid, hit with unfair deductions, or denied payment, don’t stay silent. There are legal protections in place, and by taking action, you can help stop these unfair tactics.

Lodge a SOPA claim – Follow the steps in your state and get the money you’re owed.
Speak to a construction lawyer – Many offer free first consultations to discuss your options.
Contact advocacy groups – Organisations like MATES in Construction and Subcontractors Alliance can help.
Share your story – The more evidence we have, the stronger the push for change.

If you need support or want to share your experience, reach out to us confidentially at lipmanconst@proton.me.

Fair pay for fair work—it’s time to make the industry accountable.