✅ Updated January 2026 — VIC-specific information verified

Victoria has its own licensing body, its own workers compensation scheme and its own grant programs. This guide covers what's unique to Victorian tradies in 2026.

📋 VIC Tradie Guide

  1. →VBA licences and registrations
  2. →Business Victoria grants
  3. →WorkCover obligations
  4. →VIC payroll tax
  5. →VIC-specific deductions

Victorian Building Authority (VBA) Licences

In Victoria, building and trade licences are issued by the Victorian Building Authority (VBA). Unlike NSW, Victoria has a tiered system:

Registration TypeWho Needs ItAnnual Fee (approx)Applies To
Registered Building PractitionerBuilders, designers, surveyors~$220–$460/yrVBA
Domestic Builder (Unlimited)All domestic building work~$460/yrVBA
Domestic Builder (Limited)Specific work types~$220/yrVBA
Trade ContractorLicensed tradespeopleVariesVBA / ESV
Note: Electricians in VIC are licensed through Energy Safe Victoria (ESV), not the VBA. Plumbers are licensed through the VBA Plumbing division.

Business Victoria Grants 2026

Business Victoria runs several programs relevant to trade businesses. Current and recent programs have included:

  • Small Business Digital Adaptation Program — subsidised access to digital tools
  • Apprenticeship incentives — wage subsidies for taking on apprentices in priority trades
  • Energy efficiency grants — for businesses investing in energy efficiency
  • Regional business grants — specific programs for regionally-based trade businesses

Check business.vic.gov.au/grants-and-programs for current offerings.

WorkCover Victoria

Victorian employers must register with WorkSafe Victoria for WorkCover insurance. Registration is required within 60 days of employing your first worker.

Premium rates in construction typically range from 2–10% of remuneration, depending on the specific classification of work. Roofing, scaffolding and demolition attract higher rates than less hazardous trades.

Self-employed tradies: WorkCover is not compulsory for sole traders with no employees, but many take out personal injury cover voluntarily — especially if they don't have income protection insurance.

VIC Payroll Tax Threshold

Victoria's payroll tax threshold is $700,000 per year (2025–26) — lower than NSW and some other states. The rate is 4.85% (regional employers may qualify for a reduced rate of 1.2125%).

If your total Australian wages are approaching $700k, speak to an accountant about payroll tax planning well in advance.

VIC-Specific Tax Deductions

  • Citylink and EastLink tolls — fully deductible for work-related travel
  • VBA registration fees — annual registration renewal is a tax-deductible business expense
  • ESV licence fees (electricians) — deductible
  • Master Builders Victoria, HIA Victoria — association membership fees
  • WorkSafe levy — the WorkCover premium itself is a deductible business expense
⚠️ State-specific disclaimer: Victorian regulations and grant programs change regularly. Verify current information with the VBA, WorkSafe Victoria, Business Victoria and the State Revenue Office. This is general information only.