Security of Payment in the ACT (And the Border Trap That Catches Crews)
The ACT Act gives builders 10 business days to answer a payment claim, and silence makes the full amount payable. But the trap for Canberra region crews: jurisdiction follows the contract, not the border - your job can sit under the ACT Act or the NSW Act, and the deadlines differ. Know which one governs before you count a single day.
Transcript
Not being paid on a Canberra job? There is a law built for exactly this. And one trap that catches cross border crews.
The A C T Security of Payment Act. Built to get subbies paid in weeks, not years.
Step one. A valid payment claim. The work identified. The amount claimed. Served on time.
The builder then has ten business days to respond with a payment schedule.
Silence makes the full amount payable. And restricts the builder at adjudication.
Now the trap. Jurisdiction follows the contract, not the border. Canberra region work can sit under the A C T Act, or the New South Wales Act. Know which one governs before you count a single deadline.
Adjudication runs through authorised nominating authorities. Determinations typically within ten business days of acceptance.
Standard suspension rights follow. A lawful path to stop work if payment does not come.
The windows are strict, and public holidays move real dates. Verify every deadline against the Act before you act.
Know your position before you pick the fight. Free tools below. And know what you're signing.
General information about Australian subcontracts, not legal advice. Get advice on your own contract and facts.