Free invoice template for carpenters (Australia)
Fill it in below, then print it or save it as a PDF. It's pre-filled with typical carpenter line items (example prices only: replace them with yours). It adds GST at 10% if you're registered and switches the heading to "Invoice" with a no-GST line if you're not. Nothing you type leaves your browser.
TAX INVOICE
| Description | Qty | Unit price (ex GST) | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subtotal | |||
| GST (10%) | |||
| Total (AUD) | |||
No GST has been charged.
What a carpenter invoice should show
On bigger carpentry jobs the invoice has to tie back to the quote or contract: which stage it covers, what's been billed already and what's left. That's what stops progress claims turning into arguments.
Line-item wording you can borrow
Specific descriptions get paid faster than "labour and materials". Examples for carpenters:
- Progress claim 1 of 3: deposit on acceptance of quote
- Progress claim 2 of 3: subfloor and deck frame complete
- Supply and fix merbau decking, 24 m²
- Hang 4 x internal doors including hardware
- Build and install custom built-in robe, bedroom 1
- Replace rotten weatherboards, east wall (6 lengths)
- Variation 1: extra step and handrail (approved by text on 12 Oct)
- Final claim: balance on practical completion
If you're registered for GST, a tax invoice for a sale under $1,000 must show: that it's a tax invoice, your identity and ABN, the issue date, a description with quantity and price, the GST (or "Total price includes GST" if GST is exactly 1/11 of the total) and how much of each sale is taxable. From $1,000, add the buyer's identity or ABN. The template covers all of these.
Tips for chippies
- Number progress claims clearly ("Progress claim 2 of 4: frame complete") and show the contract price, amounts already invoiced and the balance.
- Home building work can have state rules on deposits, written contracts and insurance above set amounts. Check with your state building or fair trading regulator before quoting.
- Keep the deposit, progress and final invoices in one numbering sequence.
- Give every invoice a unique number (generator) and send it the day the job finishes.
Questions
Do I charge GST on each progress claim?
If you're registered, yes: each progress claim is a taxable sale for that amount. Show the GST on each one.
The customer supplies the timber. What do I charge GST on?
Only on what you sell them: your labour and anything you supply. Materials the customer buys directly aren't part of your sale.
If the invoice isn't paid
Use a polite, consistent schedule: a heads-up 3 days before the due date, a reminder on the day, then +7, +14 and +30 days. The free reminder email generator writes them, and the late payment interest calculator works out interest if your terms allow it.
Sources (checked 17 Oct 2026): ATO Tax invoices (updated 18 Sep 2026); ATO Registering for GST; ATO When you can claim a GST credit.
General information, not tax advice. Check the ATO's tax invoice page or a registered tax or BAS agent if you're unsure.
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