Worked example · Bricklayers
Bricklayer invoice example: what a correct one looks like
Below is a filled-in example for a typical subcontract job: a double-storey extension with face brick to the external walls, a run of 200 series blockwork to the retaining section, mortar supplied, scaffold on-charged and a clean down at the end. It shows how per-thousand and per-block rates sit on one Tax Invoice.
Every figure follows ATO tax invoice rules: GST is 10% on each ex-GST line, shown per item, with the "Tax Invoice" heading and ABN up top. The builder needs your ABN on the invoice to claim the GST credit and to avoid withholding.
The example
Example invoice for a bricklayer
TAX INVOICE
Ridgeline Brick & Block
| Description | Qty | Unit (ex GST) | GST | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Face brick laid, external walls (labour, per 1,000) | 3.4 | $2,150.00 | $731.00 | $8,041.00 |
| 200 series blockwork, retaining wall (labour, per block) | 160 | $7.20 | $115.20 | $1,267.20 |
| Mortar: sand, cement and additive supplied | 1 | $480.00 | $48.00 | $528.00 |
| Scaffold hire on-charged (2 weeks, invoice attached) | 1 | $620.00 | $62.00 | $682.00 |
| Clean down and acid wash (per m2) | 58 | $8.50 | $49.30 | $542.30 |
| Subtotal (ex GST) | $10,055.00 | |||
| GST | $1,005.50 | |||
| Total (inc GST) | $11,060.50 | |||
Progress claim 2 of 3. Retention 5% held by builder. Payment terms 14 days per subcontract.
Want this as a blank fill-in PDF? Grab the free bricklayer invoice template or skip the paperwork and generate one already filled in, free.
Trade-specific rules
GST notes for bricklayers
Bricklaying Services: priced per thousand bricks, per block or per square metre, usually as a subcontractor to a builder, with progress claims and retention on bigger jobs.
- Per-thousand and per-block rates are labour rates. Show the quantity laid and the rate on each line so the builder can check it against the count without a phone call.
- Materials you supply (mortar, ties, lintels) and hire you on-charge (scaffold, mixer) carry GST at the price you charge, not at your cost. Attach the hire invoice if the builder asks.
- On builder jobs, progress claims are still Tax Invoices: each claim must stand on its own with the ATO elements. Note the claim number and the retention held, and keep a running total.
- If you engage a labourer or another brickie, you are the one invoicing the builder. Their invoice to you is your cost; only your charge to the builder goes on this invoice.
Related
Before you send it
- Not registered for GST, or not sure? The sole trader invoice template has a no-GST version of this layout, and invoicing without GST in Australia explains what changes on the page.
- Invoicing a builder as a subbie? Read the subcontractor invoice guide for progress claims, variations and retention.
- Tired of retyping your details? The best invoice app for tradies and sole traders compares the apps Aussie bricklayers actually use, with current prices.
Fair questions
FAQ
Why is mortar a separate line?
Because it is a material you supplied, not labour. Separating it keeps your per-thousand rate honest and makes your BAS easier: the materials line is the one you bought inputs for.
Can I add a site allowance or travel?
Yes, as its own line with GST, if it was in the quote or the subcontract terms. Bury it in the brick rate and it becomes a dispute; show it and it is just a line item.
The builder wants my brick count. Do I have to itemise walls?
The ATO only needs a description sufficient to identify the supply. Builders often want more. A short breakdown by elevation or wall keeps the claim moving and costs you two minutes.
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