If you are hiring workers through a labour hire agency in Australia, one of the first things you should check is whether they hold the correct labour hire licence for your state.
What Is a Labour Hire Licence?
A labour hire licence is a state-issued authorisation that allows a company to supply workers to host employers. It was introduced to protect workers from exploitation and ensure agencies meet minimum standards around pay, safety, and employment conditions.
Which States Require a Licence?
Labour hire licensing requirements vary by state:
- Queensland — Labour Hire Licensing Act 2017 (mandatory)
- Victoria — Labour Hire Licensing Act 2018 (mandatory)
- South Australia — Labour Hire Licensing Act 2017 (mandatory)
- ACT — Labour Hire Licensing Act 2020 (mandatory)
- Western Australia — Employment Agents Licence (mandatory)
- NSW — Currently no standalone labour hire licence (Building & Construction Industry Security of Payment Act applies)
What Does a Licence Guarantee?
A licensed labour hire provider has been verified for:
- Financial viability — they can pay workers what they are owed
- Workers compensation insurance — coverage is current and adequate
- Tax compliance — PAYG, super, and payroll tax obligations are met
- Workplace safety — WHS policies and procedures are in place
- Fit and proper person test — directors and key personnel are vetted
Red Flags: Unlicensed Operators
Using an unlicensed labour hire provider can expose you to:
- Fines — Host employers can be penalised for using unlicensed providers
- Workers compensation liability — If the provider does not have proper insurance
- Reputational damage — Association with non-compliant operators
- Supply chain risk — Principal contractor obligations under WHS law
HBG Licences
Harrison Barratt Group holds valid labour hire licences in every state we operate:
- ACT: ACTLHL00000654
- QLD: LHL-05861-F7S5Z
- VIC: VICLHL07487
- WA: EA3008
- NSW: SLJ 02939
You can verify each of these on the relevant state authority website.
Want to work with a fully licensed, compliant provider? Contact us at harrisonbarratt.com.au/contact.