Payment Due Date NSW: 20 Business Days?

Waiting for payment after finishing construction work can be stressful, especially when the due date has passed. In NSW, the Security of Payment Act sets out rules that can help eligible construction businesses claim payment and respond when money is not paid on time.

What does the payment due date mean?

The payment due date is the date by which the claimed amount should be paid. Under NSW security of payment laws, the due date can depend on the contract and the type of construction arrangement. In some cases, if the contract does not set a shorter period, payment may become due within a set number of business days after a payment claim is made.

What if they do not pay in 20 business days?

If a valid payment claim has been served and the amount is not paid by the due date, you may have options. The next step can depend on whether the other party issued a payment schedule, whether they disputed the amount, and whether the claim was served correctly.

Check whether a payment schedule was provided

A payment schedule usually states how much the respondent proposes to pay and why. If no payment schedule was provided on time, that may affect your rights and the steps available to recover the amount claimed. If a payment schedule was provided but you disagree with it, adjudication may be an option.

Steps to consider after the due date passes

1. Confirm the payment claim was served correctly and keep proof of service.

2. Check the contract and SOPA rules to confirm the payment due date.

3. Review whether a payment schedule was received and what amount, if any, was scheduled.

4. Consider whether adjudication, debt recovery, or legal advice is the right next step.

Can you go to adjudication?

Adjudication is a fast payment dispute process under the Security of Payment Act. It may be available when a claim is disputed, unpaid, or not properly answered. Timing matters, so do not wait too long after the due date passes before checking your options.

How SopaServe helps track the process

SopaServe helps NSW construction businesses organise invoices, create SOPA-ready payment claims, and keep track of the claim workflow. When deadlines matter, having the claim details and dates in one place can make the next step clearer.

Important note

This article is general information only and is not legal advice. The correct payment due date and available options depend on your contract, the type of work, and how the claim was served. Get legal advice if you are unsure.