2025 Update: What Security of Payment Lawyers Want You to Know

"Delayed payments are one of the top three causes of construction project failures in Australia." That’s not just frustrating—it’s financially devastating. Whether you're a contractor, subcontractor, or supplier, chances are you've felt the sting of waiting weeks (or months) for payment you’ve rightfully earned.

This is where security of payment laws come in. But here's the kicker—many businesses still don’t use them to their full advantage.

Let’s break it down.

What’s Changed in 2025?

A few key things, and they matter more than ever.

This year, we’ve seen tighter enforcement across several states. Deadlines are sharper. Adjudicators? Less tolerant of sloppy claims. And digital lodgement is becoming the norm, not the exception. If you’re still relying on outdated processes or vague invoices, you’re walking into a storm.

And it’s not just compliance. It's about getting paid—fast.

Here's What You Need to Do Right Now

Know Your Cut-off Dates Like Your Life Depends on It
Because financially, it just might. In most states, you now have 10 business days to respond to a payment claim. Miss it, and you may lose your right to dispute or withhold payment.
Standardised Forms Are Your Friend
Make sure your invoices clearly state that they are a “Payment Claim under the Security of Payment Act.” If you’re not using that exact language? Fix it. Now. Adjudicators are tossing out vague or non-compliant claims at record speed this year.
Use a Payment Schedule Every Time
You’re not just protecting yourself—you’re protecting your entire cashflow system. No more handshake agreements or casual promises. A well-timed, properly worded payment schedule can mean the difference between paying what’s fair and paying for someone else’s mistake.
Don’t Wait—Act Early
If there’s a dispute brewing, hit the ground running. The earlier you prepare your claim (or your defence), the better your chances. We've seen dozens of businesses win cases simply because they acted before the other side even got their papers together.

Don’t Let Legal Myths Cost You

A big misconception we still hear? “Security of payment only applies to large contractors.”

Wrong.

These laws apply to most contracts in construction—big or small. Whether you're supplying concrete, building scaffolds, or managing site safety, you’ve got rights. The problem is, too many businesses assume they don’t.

Let’s change that.

One More Thing—Go Digital

Platforms like ilawconnect.com are making it easier than ever to manage your claims, track timelines, and collaborate with your legal team in real time. We’ve seen clients slash claim processing time by half just by switching to a digital-first workflow. If you're still emailing PDFs back and forth or chasing signatures manually, you're burning time you could be using to win work—or win disputes.

Final Word

Security of payment laws are designed to protect you. But they only work if you know how to use them. In 2025, it’s not just about having the right paperwork—it’s about timing, clarity, and confidence.

The good news? You don’t have to navigate it alone.

Talk to your security of payment lawyer. Review your systems. And most importantly, start treating your payment claims like what they are: your legal right to get paid for the work you’ve done.

Don't let your cashflow suffer because you missed a deadline or misunderstood the rules. This year, the advantage goes to those who are prepared.

Let that be you.