Service
Industry-Specific Claims
Subcontractors, suppliers and head contractors all sit differently in the payment chain — and that changes what protection under the Security of Payment Act looks like for you.
Why your position in the chain matters
The Security of Payment Act applies across the construction industry, but where you sit in the payment chain shapes your risk and your options. Subcontractors and suppliers often carry the most exposure to late or non-payment, while head contractors and principals need to manage claims flowing up from multiple trades at once. We tailor our approach to your specific position.
Subcontractors & trades
If you're a subcontractor, you're often last in line when cash flow gets tight further up the chain. We help subbies serve valid payment claims, respond to disputes, and move quickly to adjudication or recovery when payments stall — without needing to carry the cost and delay of court proceedings.
Suppliers
Suppliers of materials and equipment to construction projects are covered by the Act in most cases, even without a direct contract with the head contractor in some circumstances. We help suppliers understand whether their claim is covered and how to enforce it.
Head contractors & principals
If you're managing claims from multiple subcontractors and suppliers, getting payment schedules right — and out on time — is critical to avoiding automatic liability for claimed amounts. We help head contractors and principals build a defensible, repeatable process for responding to claims.
Does the Act apply to residential building work?
In most cases, yes, though there are some specific exclusions for residential building work where the owner lives in the property. We can confirm quickly whether your contract is covered.
I'm a supplier without a direct contract — am I still covered?
It depends on your specific arrangement. Some supply-only arrangements are covered and some aren't — we can assess your situation quickly.
We manage claims from a lot of subcontractors — can you help set up a process?
Yes — we work with head contractors and principals to build a consistent, defensible approach to handling payment claims and schedules across a project or portfolio.
Why builders, subcontractors and suppliers choose Archer Lawyers
You deal with the lawyer running your matter, not a call centre.
We do not refer work out. Our team sees matters through.
Straightforward guidance tailored to your position in the contracting chain.
Your lawyer
Who handles your matter
Matthew Armota
Matthew Armota is the Principal of Archer Lawyers, bringing a depth of experience gained across boutique, national and international law firms to every matter he handles. He has acted for head contractors and subcontractors in multiple adjudication applications and responses under the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 1999, with a very high success rate.
“Known for pairing sharp technical skill with clear, commercially-minded advice clients can actually act on.”
What's included, and what we work toward
What's included
Outcomes we work toward
Get your free claim review
Free. No obligation. Tell us a little about your situation and we'll call you back — usually the same business day.
Call direct — fastest option
(02) 9127 6656 · Mon–Fri, 8am–6pm AEST
“I approached Matt to represent me in proceedings involving defects and payment claims. He achieved an excellent outcome on my behalf. I was very pleased with his strategic guidance throughout the matter.”