Trade Tools & Builders 2026
1. Material calculators — estimate like a pro
Accurate material estimates save time and budget. Below are essential formulas and references for common building materials. For precise results, use our dedicated calculators (linked in each section).
- Concrete: (Length × Width × Thickness) in metres → cubic metres. Add 5% for wastage. Concrete calculator →
- Timber (framing): Linear metres for studs, plates, noggins. Standard stud spacing 450mm or 600mm. Timber calculator →
- Bricks/blocks: 50 bricks per m² for single brick wall (including mortar). Add 10% for cuts/breakage.
- Paint: 1 litre covers ~16m² (one coat). Two coats recommended.
- Roofing: Sheet length = rafter length + overhang. Use pitch factor.
All our trade calculators use Australian standards (AS/NZS) and metric units.
2. Licensing by state (who needs what)
Each state manages its own licensing. Operating without the correct licence can lead to fines or legal action. Below is a quick reference — always verify with the local authority.
| State | Builder licence | Electrician | Plumber | Authority website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NSW | Contractor licence (class 2,3 etc) | Electrical licence (Fair Trading) | Plumber licence (Fair Trading) | fairtrading.nsw.gov.au |
| VIC | Domestic builder (DB-U) or commercial | Registered electrical contractor (ESV) | Plumbing registration (VBA) | vba.vic.gov.au |
| QLD | Builder licence (QBCC) | Electrical licence (BSA) | Plumbing licence (QBCC) | qbcc.qld.gov.au |
| WA | Building practitioner (DMIRS) | Electrical contractor (Building and Energy) | Plumbing contractor (Plumbers Board) | dmirs.wa.gov.au |
| SA | Building work contractor (CBS) | Electrical worker (CBS) | Plumbing worker (CBS) | cbs.sa.gov.au |
| TAS | Builder licence (CBOS) | Electrical licence (CBOS) | Plumbing licence (CBOS) | cbos.tas.gov.au |
💡 Tip: most licences require proof of qualifications, insurance (public liability), and sometimes a business name registration.
3. Safety standards & WHS (2026 updates)
Work Health and Safety (WHS) is paramount. Recent 2026 updates include stricter silica dust control and high‑risk work licences. Key areas:
- Silica dust: Engineered stone banned? Actually, Australia introduced a ban on engineered stone from July 2024. Ensure respirable crystalline silica controls (wet cutting, RPE).
- Fall protection: Any height above 2 metres requires guardrails, safety nets, or harness systems (AS/NZS 1891).
- PPE: Hard hats, high‑vis, steel‑capped boots mandatory on most sites. Check site‑specific rules.
- First aid: At least one trained first aider per site, first aid kit AS 2675.
- Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS): Required for high‑risk construction work.
Refer to Safe Work Australia for model codes and your state regulator for enforcement.
4. Cost guides for tradies & builders
Typical costs (2026, national average ex‑GST). Use these as a starting point; regional variations apply.
| Item | Unit | Low range ($) | High range ($) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete (ready‑mix N25) | per m³ | 240 | 320 |
| Reinforcing mesh (SL72) | per sheet | 95 | 130 |
| Timber framing (MGP10) | per linear m | 4.50 | 8.00 |
| Bricks (standard clay) | per 1000 | 850 | 1200 |
| Gyprock (10mm standard) | per sheet | 45 | 65 |
| Plasterer labour | per hour | 60 | 90 |
| Electrician (call‑out + labour) | per hour | 85 | 130 |
| Plumber (labour) | per hour | 80 | 120 |
For detailed project estimates (e.g., cost to build a house, renovation per m²) check our Building Cost Calculator.
5. Essential tools & apps for tradies
- Measuring & layout: Laser distance measurer (Dewalt, Bosch), digital level.
- Project management: Buildxact, TradiePad, or even Airtable for quotes.
- Estimating software: Bluebeam, PlanSwift, or simple Excel templates.
- Safety apps: SiteHive (digital SWMS), “Safe Work Australia” app for quick WHS info.
- Australian standards references: SAI Global (purchase relevant AS/NZS).
Why tradies trust us
Field‑tested data
Material rates and licence rules sourced from state regulators and trade associations.
2026 compliance
Includes latest WHS silica bans, licence fee changes, and cost indexes.
On‑site ready
Mobile‑friendly tables and calculators — use them from the truck or the roof.