But that has just changed for the better thanks to new laws which passed in the NSW Parliament.
Minister for Better Regulation Matt Kean said the security of payment laws would help stop subbies being left out of pocket for work completed each month.
Under the changes:
• Head contractors will have 20 business days to pay sub-contractors, instead of 30 business days.
• A new payment structure will allow sub-contractors to make a claim at least once a month for completed work, and a final claim if a contract is terminated.
• There will be increased compliance and enforcement powers for NSW Fair Trading.
Mr Kean said the Government was also considering additional reforms to help sub-contractors get paid sooner.
“We want subbies and their families to see the benefits as soon as possible,” Mr Kean said.
For more information on the reforms, visit
