Knocking a structure down is licensed work in every state once it is structural — but the trigger, the licence and the fee differ, and asbestos and WHS notification add a separate layer. Here is the map.
When you need a demolition licence
A demolition licence is required for structural or load-bearing demolition. Non-structural strip-out (fittings, non-load-bearing partitions, services) generally is not "demolition work" — though it may still need building approval. The state picture:
- NSW (SafeWork NSW): two licences — DE2 (restricted) for load-bearing demolition 6–15m or load-shifting machinery on a suspended floor; DE1 (unrestricted) for over 15m, tower cranes, mobile cranes over 100t, pre/post-tensioned components, floor propping or explosives. (Under 6m without those triggers needs no licence.) The 2025-26 fee is around $2,788.
- VIC: register as a "Demolisher" building-practitioner class (now via the Building and Plumbing Commission) — needed for demolition requiring a building permit, regardless of cost.
- QLD (WHSQ): a demolition work licence for pre/post-tensioned components, load-shifting equipment or explosives — and "all other demolition" unless it is a domestic house and ancillary structures without those risks. Valid 2 years.
- WA (WorkSafe WA): Class 1 and Class 2 demolition licences (3-year), with notice of 5/10/15 working days depending on the method.
- SA (CBS), TAS (CBOS "Demolisher"), ACT (Access Canberra / WorkSafe ACT), NT (building licence over $12,000): each has its own demolition licence or registration.
The notification trigger (model WHS)
Separately from the licence, you must give the regulator written notice at least 5 days before demolition that involves a load-bearing structure (or part) 6 metres or more high, load-shifting machinery on a suspended floor, or explosives. (WA runs 5/10/15 working days; the ACT also catches loose-fill-asbestos structures.)
Demolition and asbestos are separate
Asbestos does not change the demolition licence class — it triggers a separate Class A/B asbestos removal licence and notification, and the asbestos must be removed and cleared before you demolish. Some regulators use a unified notification form (QLD's Form 65). See Asbestos and Asbestos Removalist Licensing.
You will need planning approval too
A demolition licence (WHS) is separate from the building or demolition permit (planning law) — you usually need both for a full house or commercial building. Heritage and character controls (such as Brisbane's pre-1946 character or NSW heritage conservation areas) can restrict or block demolition, and AS 2601 governs protecting adjoining property.
Common mistakes
- Demolishing structural work over 6m with no licence or notice.
- Demolishing before the asbestos is cleared.
- No building or demolition permit, or ignoring heritage controls.
Know someone who needs this?
Keep reading
Was this guide useful?
Didn't find what you were looking for?
Spotted something wrong or out of date? Email us at hello@kilnguides.co.uk.
In crisis? Lifeline 13 11 14 ·