SCA Champions Faster Payments for Subcontractors in SA Government Projects

Wednesday 30 July 2025

The Specialist Contractors Association (SCA) has scored a major win for its members and the broader construction industry in South Australia.

The Specialist Contractors Association (SCA) has scored a major win for its members and the broader construction industry in South Australia. Following proactive advocacy, including a key meeting with Minister Koutsantonis, the SCA successfully pushed for clearer implementation of the government’s 15-day payment terms policy. This initiative addresses longstanding concerns over delayed payments, unfair contracts, and the review of the DIT Code of Practice, ensuring fairer cash flow for specialist contractors.

The resulting Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT) Fact Sheet, released on 30 July 2025, outlines the policy’s application to social infrastructure projects like schools and hospitals. Key highlights include:

  • Government departments must pay contractors within 15 calendar days of undisputed invoices, per Treasurer’s Instruction 11.
  • Lead contractors are required to extend the same 15-day terms to subcontractors, backed by statutory declarations and compliance monitoring.
  • DIT encourages subcontractors to report non-compliance confidentially for swift resolution.

This achievement underscores the SCA’s tireless efforts on behalf of subcontractors, improving financial stability amid economic pressures. By collaborating with government as a united group, the SCA continues to drive positive change.

For full details, click here to view the Fact Sheet.