Invoice template tips for builders and construction workers in Australia

4-minute read
We use cookies to secure and tailor your web use. Our notice explains how we use cookies and how you can manage them. By continuing to use this site we assume you're ok with our notice.
4-minute read
If you run a building company or are a self-employed construction worker, you’ll probably issue invoices for your work. But does your invoice template comply with Australian Tax Office (ATO) requirements? Here are some tips.
Any print shop should be able to quote you for a branded invoice design, but you’ll need to add the obligatory information when you write each invoice. Alternatively, search online for free Word or Excel invoice templates, making sure they are compatible with ATO regulations.
Another option is to use Westpac’s Biz Invoice online invoicing tool, which incorporates an easy-to-use invoice template. It’s complimentary with Business One Low and High Plan business bank account and is managed in online banking.
With Biz Invoice, the Australian invoice template features all the required fields – and you can customise it with a business logo if you have one.
In line with ATO guidelines, you should include the following on your invoice template:
You can include GST as a single amount using words such as ‘Total price includes GST’ if your invoice is for less than $1,000 in total and all items on it are subject to 10% GST. If the invoice is for more than $1,000, the GST amount must be featured beside each item.
Not sure about GST? Find out if you have to charge it in our Business basics for sole traders article.
The Biz Invoice online invoicing template features all the necessary fields detailed above. The tool can save you time too, by storing customer information and standard line items (such as your hourly rate and commonly used materials) to save typing the same details over and over, and to help avoid mistakes. Better still, you can send an invoice from your mobile or laptop as soon as you finish work or a specific job.
The online invoices for your building company or contract construction work could look as smart as this:
In addition to your invoices for building work ticking all the ATO compliance boxes, they could also include a few things that may help speed up payments. Things such as:
It’s worth noting that with Biz Invoice you can choose to offer BPAY® payments in addition to bank transfers, which means you can accept credit card payments without a card machine.
Invoicing is often the last thing on the mind of a busy builder, and the paperwork is often delayed. With the right invoicing solution, you can make invoicing quicker and easier – and the faster you get your invoices out the faster you may get paid.
Westpac’s products are subject to terms, conditions and fees; and eligibility criteria may apply. Before making a decision, read the disclosure documents for your selected product or service, including the Product Disclosure Statement and T&Cs for Westpac business bank accounts and online banking and consider if the product is right for you.
The information in this article is general in nature; does not take your objectives, financial situation or needs into account. Consider its appropriateness to these factors; and we recommend you seek independent professional legal and/or financial advice about your specific circumstances before making any decisions. Westpac does not endorse or guarantee the accuracy of any third-party templates. You should make your own enquiries and seek professional legal advice where required.