How much deposit can a tradie ask for in Australia?
ONARA Ops · 4 min read · Updated 29 June 2026
Asking for a deposit is one of the simplest ways to protect your cash flow and weed out time-wasters. Still, plenty of tradies aren't sure how much they can reasonably ask for, or how to bring it up without scaring the customer off.
Here is a straightforward look at deposits for Australian trades: what is normal, what to watch for, and the easiest way to collect one.
Why take a deposit at all?
A deposit covers you for materials you have to buy up front, and it gets a real commitment from the customer before you block out a day for them. It also quietly filters out tyre-kickers, someone happy to pay a deposit is far more likely to be a genuine job.
For bigger or custom jobs, where you are ordering specific materials, a deposit is close to essential. You should not be out of pocket for someone else's order.
How much is reasonable?
For most jobs, somewhere between 10% and 20% of the quote is normal, or enough to cover the materials you need to buy. Keep it proportionate: a small call-out might need nothing up front, while a large supply-and-install job reasonably justifies more.
The key is that it feels fair. A deposit that clearly maps to your costs is easy for a customer to say yes to. An oversized one makes them nervous.
Know the rules in your state
Deposits are common and generally fine, but some states cap deposits on certain work, particularly domestic building work, where the maximum deposit can be limited by law depending on the contract value. The Australian Consumer Law also applies to refunds and cancellations.
This is general information, not legal advice. Check your state or territory's building and consumer rules, or your trade association, especially for larger residential contracts.
When and how to ask
Put it in your quote and terms up front, so it is expected rather than a surprise. Make clear what the deposit covers and that it comes off the final invoice.
The smoothest moment to collect is when the customer confirms the booking. If the deposit is paid before you commit time, you are protected and the job is locked in.
The easy way to collect it
Chasing a deposit by bank transfer is slow and awkward. The simplest approach is to let the customer pay it online by card at the moment they book, so it is done before you lift a finger.
ONARA Ops does exactly this: set a deposit on your booking page and customers pay it by card to confirm. The money goes straight to your account, with no cut taken.
Frequently asked questions
Is it legal for a tradie to ask for a deposit?
Generally yes, deposits are common and accepted. Some states cap deposits on certain work, especially domestic building contracts, so check your state's rules for larger residential jobs.
How much deposit should I ask for?
Often 10% to 20% of the job, or enough to cover the materials you need to buy up front. Keep it proportionate to the size of the job.
Do I have to refund a deposit if the customer cancels?
It depends on your terms and how far along you are. If you have already incurred costs, you may be able to keep those. Spell it out clearly in your terms, and remember the Australian Consumer Law applies.
What is the easiest way to take a deposit?
Take it online by card when the customer books, so it is paid before you start. That removes the awkward chase and locks in the job.
Take deposits without the awkward chase
ONARA Ops lets customers pay a deposit by card the moment they book. Money straight to your account, no cut taken. First month free.
Start your first month free