Tradie Invoice Guide

Everything Australian tradies need to know about invoicing, ABN requirements, and GST compliance

Tradie Requirements Invoice Templates Try Free Now

Tradie Business Requirements

Essential Requirements for Australian Tradies

1. ABN (Australian Business Number)

All tradies operating as a business need an ABN. This is crucial for:

  • Avoiding 47% tax withholding from clients
  • Registering for GST
  • Claiming business expenses
  • Professional credibility

2. GST Registration

Most tradies need to register for GST when:

  • Annual turnover exceeds $75,000
  • You want to claim GST credits on purchases
  • You provide services to other businesses

3. Professional Indemnity Insurance

Essential protection for tradies:

  • Covers professional mistakes
  • Protects against legal claims
  • Often required by clients
Pro Tip: Many tradies start as sole traders and later incorporate as a company as their business grows.

Quick Checklist

  • Apply for ABN
  • Register for GST (if needed)
  • Get professional insurance
  • Set up business bank account
  • Create professional invoices
  • Keep detailed records

Tradie Invoice Templates

Electrician Invoice

Essential Items:
  • Electrical license number
  • Materials and parts used
  • Labor hours and rates
  • Safety compliance notes
  • Warranty information
Create Electrician Invoice

Plumber Invoice

Essential Items:
  • Plumbing license number
  • Pipe fittings and materials
  • Emergency call-out fees
  • After-hours rates
  • Warranty on workmanship
Create Plumber Invoice

Builder Invoice

Essential Items:
  • Builder's license number
  • Progress payment schedule
  • Materials and labor breakdown
  • Subcontractor costs
  • Completion milestones
Create Builder Invoice

General Trade Invoice

Essential Items:
  • Trade license details
  • Materials and supplies
  • Labor hours and rates
  • Travel and call-out fees
  • Warranty information
Create Trade Invoice

Tradie Invoice Best Practices

Professional Invoice Tips for Tradies

1. Include All Required Information

  • Your business name and ABN
  • Client's name and address
  • Invoice number and date
  • Detailed description of work
  • Materials and labor breakdown
  • GST amount (if applicable)

2. Clear Pricing Structure

  • Separate materials from labor
  • Include call-out fees clearly
  • Specify after-hours rates
  • Add travel costs if applicable

3. Professional Presentation

  • Use professional invoice template
  • Include your business logo
  • Clear payment terms
  • Multiple payment options
Important: Always keep copies of all invoices for tax purposes and warranty claims.

Payment Terms

Common Tradie Terms:
  • Small jobs: Payment on completion
  • Large projects: Progress payments
  • Emergency work: Payment within 7 days
  • Commercial: 14-30 day terms
Set clear expectations with clients about payment terms.

Common Tradie Invoice Scenarios

Emergency Call-Out

After-hours electrical or plumbing emergencies with call-out fees and emergency rates.

Create Emergency Invoice
Regular Maintenance

Scheduled maintenance work with standard rates and materials included.

Create Maintenance Invoice
Major Project

Large construction or renovation projects with progress payments and detailed breakdowns.

Create Project Invoice

Ready to Create Professional Tradie Invoices?

Join thousands of Australian tradies using InvoiceAustralia for professional, compliant invoicing.

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