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Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Successful Commercial Painting Career or Business.
Thinking about becoming a commercial painter in Australia? Whether you're starting from scratch or transitioning from residential painting, commercial painting can offer bigger contracts, better pay, and long-term growth. But how do you actually get started?
In this complete guide, you’ll learn:
- Who is a commercial painter?
- Who is eligible to become a commercial painter?
- How to get commercial painting jobs
- Steps to establish a commercial painting company
- How to run a successful commercial painting business
Who Is The Best Commercial Painter?
The best commercial painter in Australia is a trained professional who specialises in painting large-scale buildings like shopping centres, offices, warehouses, apartment complexes, schools, hospitals, and industrial sites.
Unlike residential painters who typically work in homes, best commercial painters handle more complex jobs requiring advanced tools, coatings, safety measures, and often strict timelines.
Commercial Painter Responsibilities:
Preparing surfaces using pressure washers, sandblasters, or chemical solutions
Applying various paints, varnishes, or coatings using rollers, brushes, or spray machines
Reading and interpreting project plans, specs, and colour codes
Using scaffolding, boom lifts, and other high-access tools safely
Working as part of a team to meet strict deadlines
Why Become The best Commercial Painter?
The Best Commercial painting is ideal for painters who want to take on larger projects, work in diverse environments, and increase their earning potential.
The work is steady, especially in urban centres and new developments, and the opportunity to grow into a business owner is high.
Who Is Eligible to Become The Best Commercial Painter?
To become the best commercial painter in Australia, you must meet certain qualifications and requirements. These ensure you're safe, skilled, and compliant with local regulations.
Key Eligibility Requirements for being the best commercial painter:
Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CPC30620)
This nationally accredited course teaches essential skills like surface preparation, colour matching, paint application, wallpapering, and safety. Most commercial painting companies require this certification.
White Card (General Construction Induction Card)
A White Card is mandatory to work on construction sites in Australia. You can complete the training online or in person through registered training organisations (RTOs).
Relevant Work Experience
You should have some hands-on experience, even if it’s from residential work or an apprenticeship. Many commercial companies prefer painters with proven reliability and site experience.
Public Liability Insurance
If you're working as an independent contractor, you need insurance to protect yourself and your clients in case of accidents or property damage.
ABN (Australian Business Number)
If you plan to subcontract or run your own business, registering for an ABN is a must. This allows you to invoice clients and manage your business legally.
State Licence (Varies by Location)
Some Australian states require painters to be licensed for jobs over a certain value (e.g., over $5,000 in NSW). Check with your state’s Fair Trading or consumer affairs department.
How to Get Commercial Painting Jobs
Getting your foot in the door with commercial painting jobs takes persistence, marketing, and strategic networking. Here’s how you can start:
Work Under Established Commercial Painting Companies
Begin by applying for subcontracting or entry-level roles with experienced commercial painting firms. You'll gain exposure to large projects, learn how to work with teams, and understand safety protocols. Build relationships and ask for referrals once you prove yourself reliable.
Join Trade Networks Like Painters Link
Becoming a member of Painters Link can help you:
Access exclusive job leads
Be listed in an industry-trusted directory
Earn rebates from suppliers like Dulux
Connect with builders, developers, and fellow painters
Joining a network instantly boosts your credibility and visibility.
Build a Strong Portfolio to get the commercial painting job
Start documenting your work with high-quality before-and-after photos. Highlight commercial properties you’ve painted, include testimonials, and outline your process. A strong visual portfolio helps clients and contractors trust your skills.
Create an Online Presence
Build a website and social media profiles to showcase your work. Write blog posts like this one using keywords such as:
"Commercial painter Sydney"
"How to become a commercial painter"
"Best painting company Australia"
This improves your SEO and attracts leads.
Network with Builders and Developers
Reach out to property developers, project managers, and commercial construction firms. Offer to quote on projects, even small ones. Show that you’re punctual, professional, and understand the commercial painting workflow.
Steps to Establish The Best Commercial Painting Company in Australia
Once you’ve built some experience and want to work for yourself, it’s time to create your own commercial painting company. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Register Your Business
Apply for an ABN and register a business name through the Australian Government's Business Registration Service.
Step 2: Get Your License (If Required)
Check your local regulations and apply for a painter's license if needed. In NSW, for example, it’s required for jobs over $5,000.
Step 3: Set Up Finances and Quoting Tools
Open a business bank account. Use invoicing and quoting software to create professional estimates. Accurate quoting is essential for winning commercial projects.
Step 4: Secure Insurance
Make sure your business is insured. Public liability, workers comp, and tools/equipment insurance are important.
Step 5: Build Supplier Relationships
Establish trade accounts with major paint suppliers. When you join Painters Link, you can access exclusive discounts and annual rebates from brands like Dulux and Wattyl.
Step 6: Launch a Website and Google Business Profile
Your online presence is your digital shopfront. Add service areas, commercial job photos, client reviews, and SEO-optimised content to help you appear in local searches.
How to Run a Successful Commercial Painting Business
Once you’ve launched your commercial painting company, running it efficiently will be the key to growth.
Hire Skilled Painters and Build a Team
You’ll need support for bigger jobs. Hire qualified painters or train apprentices. Build a reliable, safety-conscious crew that delivers quality on every site.
Quote Jobs Accurately
Use your experience and tools to offer fair, transparent quotes. Factor in materials, labour, timelines, and site-specific requirements.
Plan Projects and Meet Deadlines
Use project management tools or spreadsheets to stay organised. Being known for punctuality and consistency will bring repeat business.
Prioritise Safety and Compliance
Follow OH&S guidelines. Conduct toolbox talks, maintain PPE, and document all procedures. This protects your team and reassures clients.
Market Your Services Consistently
Use digital marketing (Google Ads, SEO blogs), social media (Facebook, LinkedIn), and word of mouth to keep leads coming. Keep your directory listing on Painters Link updated.
FAQ for Commercial Painter
Final Thoughts about The Best Commercial Painter
Now that you understand how to become the best commercial painter in Australia, you can take your career to the next level. Whether you're looking for subcontracting opportunities or ready to start your own business, following the right steps will set you up for long-term success.
Ready to grow your painting career?
Join PaintersLink.com.au today to:
Get listed in painters business directory
Access exclusive supplier deals
Receive commercial job leads in your area
Take the next step and become a leading commercial painter in your region.
