$Paid On Time

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How long can a business take to pay an invoice in Australia?

Short answer

There is no single legal deadline for most business invoices. The payment due date is whatever you agreed in your contract or terms of trade. Large businesses must report how fast they pay small suppliers under the Payment Times Reporting Scheme, and small business commissioners and the federal Small Business Ombudsman can help if you are stuck.

General information only, not legal or financial advice. Every business and every debt is different. For advice on your situation, talk to a lawyer, your accountant or your state small business commissioner.

Step by step

  1. 1

    Agree terms upfront

    Put a specific due date on every invoice.

  2. 2

    Check the payer's track record

    Search the Payment Times Reporting Scheme for large businesses.

  3. 3

    Chase on day 1 overdue

    Do not wait for it to become a habit.

  4. 4

    Escalate to a commissioner if needed

    Your state small business commissioner or ASBFEO can help with disputes.

What else to know

Common terms are 7, 14 or 30 days, but large customers sometimes impose longer terms. Read them before you sign.

Some industries, such as building and construction, have specific state security of payment laws with set timeframes. If you work in construction, check your state's rules.

Firmer follow-up template

Common questions

Is 30 days the law?

No. 30 days is common practice, not a general legal requirement. What you agreed is what counts.

What can I do about a big company paying slowly?

Check their Payment Times Report, raise it with them directly, and contact ASBFEO or your state commissioner for help.

Official sources

Sources checked 14 October 2026. Rules and limits change, so check the official site before acting.

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