Owner-Builder Course
Learn how to save thousands and take control of your project by managing your own home build or renovation.
An owner-builder constructs or renovates a home on their own land without being a registered builder. This pathway offers greater control, potential cost savings and the satisfaction of creating your own home — but it also comes with important legal and financial responsibilities.
This introductory course will guide you through the residential construction process, explain how to become an owner-builder and outline the key duties involved. You’ll explore the pros and cons of managing your build and gain practical insights into the challenges and rewards of this approach.
Have your questions answered by an experienced industry expert and learn what it takes to successfully navigate the owner-builder journey.
At the end of the course, you’ll receive a Certificate of Completion that satisfies the Building & Energy (Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety — LGIRS) owner-builder approval application requirement of “evidence provided of owner/applicant knowledge of the duties and responsibilities of an owner-builder”.
Includes: PDF presentation copy, course handouts, Certificate of Completion, notebook and pen, tea and coffee, free parking.
Important information:
1.) From 1 July 2026, owner-builder approval is no longer required for Class 10a buildings (non-habitable structures such as private garages, carports and sheds) valued at less than $50,000. If you are uncertain of your project’s classification, please contact your local government permit authority (council). For general enquiries regarding this change, contact the LGIRS Owner-Builder team on 1300 489 099 or via ownerbuilders@lgirs.wa.gov.au.
2.) Eligibility: To be approved as an owner-builder, you must meet the criteria outlined by Building & Energy (LGIRS). Before attending this course, we recommend reviewing “Form 75 Owner-Builder Approval”, available here. For assistance, contact the LGIRS Owner-Builder team on 1300 489 099 or via ownerbuilders@lgirs.wa.gov.au.
3.) Certificate of Completion: One certificate is issued per single or double enrolment. If you require two certificates (for individual projects), please complete two single enrolments.
Course Details
| Duration | 1 Day |
|---|---|
| Time | 8.45am - 5pm |
| Location | Home Base Design & Build Centre |
| Cost | $270 single | $350 double |
| Payment Options | Visa | Mastercard | Afterpay |
Course Structure
- Introduction to being an owner-builder
- The owner-builder approval process and application requirements
- Understanding regulation, compliance and your legal responsibilities
- Project planning and essential documentation
- Building permits — what’s required and how to apply
- Preparing for construction — timelines, trades and expert advice
- Managing the construction phase, quality control and safety
- How to succeed as an owner-builder
- Where to find resources, support and further guidance
Course feedback
"The information presented clarified a lot of things we were previously unsure of. Thank you."
"I found the presenter easy to listen to, informative and interesting — and the course was enjoyable."
"It was interesting to get an insight into how the process works and receive good tips on how to manage the project from start to finish."
"Having no idea or building background I found this course easy to understand, with great baseline information that has given us a more accurate plan of the direction we need to take."
"Impressed with the venue, parking, material and presenter. Highly recommend!"
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