Do Both Owner Builders Need a White Card?
Transcript
Deborah Coren: My husband and I, at this stage, we’re obviously looking to do it ourselves.
Charles Christodoulou: Yep.
Deborah Coren: So I looked up on ChatGPT, and the answer it gave me was that only one of us potentially has to actually do the Owner-Builder Course. But you also mentioned the White Card. I’m assuming that because I’d be helping on-site, I’d need to have that as well?
Charles Christodoulou: Yep.
Deborah Coren: So both of us would need the White Card, but only one needs to do the Owner-Builder Course?
Charles Christodoulou: Yes, that’s correct.
Deborah Coren: Is it the owner of the land who has to do the Owner-Builder Course?
Charles Christodoulou: Yes.
Deborah Coren: Okay, alright. Because I was hoping I own the land, as I’m the Australian citizen – but my husband doesn’t.
Charles Christodoulou: Yeah, normally it’s the owner of the land.
Charles Christodoulou: The land must be in your name to obtain an Owner-Builder Permit.
If you’re planning to build your own home with iBuild as an owner-builder, you must understand the training requirements involved. This is especially important if more than one person will help on-site.
Whether you’re working as a couple or managing your project solo, knowing who needs a White Card and who must complete the Owner-Builder Course can save time. It also ensures you meet all compliance requirements.
Do Both Partners Need a White Card?
Yes. Both partners need a White Card if they will work on the construction site. The white card for owner builder projects is a mandatory safety certification. Any person entering or assisting on a building site must complete it.
It covers the basic principles of workplace health and safety. Australian law requires it nationwide. If your partner plans to get involved in the build – even occasionally – they must also complete the White Card course.
Who Needs to Complete the Owner-Builder Course?
Only one person needs to complete the Owner-Builder Course.
That person must be the legal owner of the land. So, if the land title bears your name, you’re responsible for completing the course.
You must also apply for the Owner-Builder Permit. This permit gives you legal authorization to manage your own build.
For more on what happens after your kit home reaches lockup stage, check out this guide on taking over as an owner-builder.