Cleaning Services Contract (Australia)
This Cleaning Services Contract (the "Agreement") is entered into on [Sign Date] by and between [Client Name] (ABN: [Client ABN]) of [Client Address] (the "Client") and [Cleaner Name] (ABN: [Cleaner ABN]) of [Cleaner Address] (the "Cleaner"). The Client and the Cleaner are each referred to individually as a "Party" and collectively as the "Parties".
1. SERVICES
1.1 The Cleaner agrees to provide the following [Service Type] services at [Property Address] (the "Premises"):
[Service Description]
1.2 Services will be provided [Service Frequency] in accordance with the schedule set out in clause 2 below.
1.3 The Cleaner shall provide all cleaning equipment, products, and materials necessary to perform the services unless otherwise agreed in writing. All cleaning products used shall be safe, fit for purpose, and compliant with applicable safety data sheet requirements under Australian Work Health and Safety legislation.
1.4 The Cleaner warrants that all services will be performed with due care and skill, and that any materials supplied in connection with the services will be of acceptable quality, consistent with the consumer guarantees applicable under Schedule 2 of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth) (Australian Consumer Law).
2. SCHEDULE
2.1 Services will commence on [Start Date] and will continue until [End Date], unless terminated earlier in accordance with clause 7 of this Agreement.
2.2 Services will be performed on the following schedule: [Service Schedule].
2.3 The Client shall provide the Cleaner with lawful access to the Premises at the scheduled times. If access is denied and the Cleaner cannot perform the services through no fault of the Cleaner, the Client may be liable for the full service fee for that visit.
3. FEES AND PAYMENT
3.1 The Client agrees to pay the Cleaner [Service Rate] for each service visit. GST included in rate: [GST Included]. All invoices shall be issued [Invoice Frequency] and payment shall be made within [Payment Due Days] of the invoice date by [Payment Method].
3.2 If the Cleaner is registered for GST under the A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax) Act 1999 (Cth), all invoices will be tax invoices and will separately identify the GST component.
3.3 If payment is not made by the due date, the Cleaner reserves the right to charge interest at the rate prescribed under the Penalty Interest Rates Act or applicable state legislation, and to suspend services until all outstanding amounts are paid.
3.4 The Cleaner may review and adjust the service rate annually by providing not less than 30 days' written notice to the Client.
4. CLIENT OBLIGATIONS
4.1 The Client shall: (a) ensure safe access to the Premises at the agreed service times; (b) secure all valuables, cash, and fragile items before each service; (c) ensure the Premises are safe for the Cleaner to work in, including disclosing any known hazards; (d) notify the Cleaner of any special instructions or areas to be avoided; and (e) ensure pets are secured during cleaning sessions.
5. INSURANCE AND LIABILITY
5.1 The Cleaner shall maintain public liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $10,000,000 (AUD) per occurrence throughout the term of this Agreement. If the Cleaner employs workers, the Cleaner shall also maintain valid workers' compensation insurance in accordance with the applicable state or territory legislation.
5.2 The Cleaner's liability for any loss or damage to the Client's property arising from the Cleaner's negligence shall be subject to any applicable statutory limitations. The Cleaner is not liable for pre-existing damage, ordinary wear and tear, or damage caused by faulty products supplied by the Client.
5.3 To the maximum extent permitted by the Australian Consumer Law (Schedule 2 of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth)), the Cleaner's liability for failure to comply with a consumer guarantee is limited to: (a) resupplying the services; or (b) paying the cost of having the services supplied again.
6. PRIVACY AND CONFIDENTIALITY
6.1 The Cleaner acknowledges that access to the Premises provides access to the Client's private and confidential environment. The Cleaner and any employees or contractors engaged by the Cleaner shall maintain strict confidentiality with respect to the layout, contents, and activities observed at the Premises and shall not disclose any such information to third parties.
6.2 Any personal information collected by the Cleaner in connection with this Agreement will be handled in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the applicable Australian Privacy Principles.
7. TERMINATION
7.1 Either Party may terminate this Agreement by providing [Notice Period] written notice to the other Party.
7.2 Either Party may terminate this Agreement immediately upon written notice if the other Party commits a material breach of this Agreement that is not remedied within 7 days of written notice requiring remedy.
7.3 Upon termination, the Client shall pay all outstanding fees for services performed up to and including the termination date.
8. DISPUTE RESOLUTION
8.1 If a dispute arises in connection with this Agreement, the Parties shall first attempt to resolve the dispute through good-faith negotiation. If the dispute is not resolved within 14 days, either Party may refer the matter to the relevant state or territory consumer protection authority (such as NSW Fair Trading, Consumer Affairs Victoria, or equivalent) or initiate mediation.
8.2 Nothing in this clause prevents a Party from seeking urgent injunctive relief from a court of competent jurisdiction.
9. GOVERNING LAW
9.1 This Agreement is governed by the laws of [Governing State], Australia. Each Party submits to the non-exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of [Governing State] and the Federal Court of Australia.
9.2 Nothing in this Agreement is intended to exclude, restrict, or modify any right or remedy, or any guarantee, warranty, or other term or condition, implied or imposed by the Australian Consumer Law that cannot lawfully be excluded or limited.
10. GENERAL
10.1 This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the Parties with respect to the cleaning services and supersedes all prior discussions, representations, and agreements relating to the same subject matter.
10.2 This Agreement may only be amended by a written instrument signed by both Parties. A waiver of any right under this Agreement must be in writing and signed by the waiving Party.
10.3 If any provision of this Agreement is held invalid, unenforceable, or illegal, the remaining provisions continue in full force and effect.
10.4 The Cleaner is an independent contractor and not an employee of the Client. Nothing in this Agreement creates an employment relationship, partnership, or joint venture between the Parties.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have executed this Cleaning Services Contract as of the date first written above.
CLIENT:
Name: [Client Name]
ABN: [Client ABN]
Address: [Client Address]
Phone: [Client Phone]
Email: [Client Email]
CLEANER / CLEANING SERVICE PROVIDER:
Name: [Cleaner Name]
ABN: [Cleaner ABN]
Address: [Cleaner Address]
Phone: [Cleaner Phone]
Email: [Cleaner Email]
Client
________________
Signature
Date: ________________
Cleaner
________________
Signature
Date: ________________
What Is a Cleaning Services Contract (Australia)?
A Cleaning Services Contract in Australia records the cleaning work to be provided, the fees, the service standards, and each party's obligations between the provider and the client. The agreement is governed by the common law of contract and, where services are supplied to a consumer, the Australian Consumer Law (Schedule 2 of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth)).
The contract is governed by the Australian Consumer Law (ACL), which is Schedule 2 to the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth). The ACL applies to all states and territories and implies mandatory consumer guarantees into every contract for services supplied to consumers. These guarantees — which cannot be excluded — require that cleaning services be performed with due care and skill, be fit for their specified purpose, and be completed within a reasonable time.
A well-drafted Cleaning Services Contract sets out the agreed scope of work in detail, reducing the risk of disputes about what is and is not included in each service visit. It also protects the cleaner by recording the agreed rate and payment terms, reducing the risk of late or non-payment.
The Australia Cleaning Services Contract (Australia) template is suitable for residential cleaning, commercial and office cleaning, end-of-lease and bond cleaning, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and window cleaning across all Australian states and territories. It can be used for one-time services or ongoing regular arrangements.
The legal framework governing the Cleaning Services Contract (Australia) in Australia draws on several key statutes and regulatory bodies. Under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) regulates companies and financial services. Section 127 of the Corporations Act 2001 governs company execution of documents. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) enforces the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth). The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) administers the Goods and Services Tax under the A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax) Act 1999. The Federal Court of Australia and Supreme Courts of each state have jurisdiction over corporate disputes. Parties executing a Cleaning Services Contract (Australia) in Australia should confirm the document reflects current law, including any amendments enacted since the original drafting date. The Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) sets the foundational requirements.
When Do You Need a Cleaning Services Contract (Australia)?
A Cleaning Services Contract should be used whenever a cleaning business or sole trader enters into a recurring or significant one-time arrangement with a client. Verbal agreements are legally binding in Australia but are difficult to enforce because the terms are disputed when problems arise.
A written contract is particularly important for: commercial cleaning of offices or retail premises; end-of-lease and bond cleaning where the standard of work may be scrutinised by a landlord or property manager; high-value residential properties where the risk of damage claims is elevated; ongoing regular service arrangements where payment disputes over time are more likely; and arrangements involving multiple cleaners or subcontractors.
Many body corporate managers, commercial property managers, and facility managers require cleaning contractors to provide a signed contract and evidence of public liability insurance before commencement. Having a professional contract demonstrates credibility and professionalism.
For clients, a written contract protects against unexpected price increases, poor-quality work, and unclear cancellation terms. For cleaners, it protects against non-payment, unreasonable access refusals, and disputes about scope.
Parties in Australia should prepare a Cleaning Services Contract (Australia) proactively rather than waiting for a dispute to arise. Courts interpret agreements based on the written terms rather than oral representations. Under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) regulates companies and financial services. Section 127 of the Corporations Act 2001 governs company execution of documents. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) enforces the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth). The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) administers the Goods and Services Tax under the A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax) Act 1999. The Federal Court of Australia and Supreme Courts of each state have jurisdiction over corporate disputes. Where the transaction involves regulated activities, prior approval from the relevant authority may be required before execution.
What to Include in Your Cleaning Services Contract (Australia)
A thorough Australian Cleaning Services Contract should include the following key elements:
Scope of services: A detailed description of all cleaning tasks included in each visit. Specificity prevents disputes — list individual rooms, surfaces, tasks (vacuuming, mopping, sanitising bathrooms), and any exclusions.
Service frequency and schedule: The days, times, and frequency of service visits — weekly, fortnightly, or one-time — and any public holiday arrangements.
Fees and GST: The agreed rate per visit or per hour, whether GST is included or added, and the invoicing and payment schedule. Compliance with the GST Act 1999 (Cth) requires tax invoices if the cleaner is GST-registered.
Access arrangements: How the cleaner will access the premises, the client's obligation to provide safe access, and the consequences of access being denied.
Insurance: The cleaner's obligation to maintain public liability insurance and, where applicable, workers' compensation insurance in accordance with state legislation.
Consumer guarantees: Acknowledgement that the ACL consumer guarantees apply and a compliant limitation of liability clause.
Privacy: How the cleaner will handle personal information about the client and the confidentiality obligations of cleaners working inside private premises.
Termination: The notice period required to end the agreement and the client's obligation to pay for work completed up to termination.
Dispute resolution: A mechanism for resolving disputes, referencing state consumer protection authorities such as NSW Fair Trading or Consumer Affairs Victoria.
Governing law: The state or territory whose laws apply — typically the state where the property is located.
Additional compliance elements for a Cleaning Services Contract (Australia) used in Australia include: Under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) regulates companies and financial services. Section 127 of the Corporations Act 2001 governs company execution of documents. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) enforces the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth). The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) administers the Goods and Services Tax under the A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax) Act 1999. The Federal Court of Australia and Supreme Courts of each state have jurisdiction over corporate disputes. Forms-legal.com provides this template as a starting point for Australia-compliant documentation.
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Reference this free template in an article, syllabus, or research note:
Forms Legal. (2026). Cleaning Services Contract (Australia) (Australia) [Legal document template]. Forms Legal. https://forms-legal.com/australia/business/services/cleaning-services-contract-australia
"Cleaning Services Contract (Australia) (Australia)." Forms Legal, 2026, https://forms-legal.com/australia/business/services/cleaning-services-contract-australia.
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author = {{Forms Legal}},
title = {Cleaning Services Contract (Australia) (Australia)},
year = {2026},
howpublished = {\url{https://forms-legal.com/australia/business/services/cleaning-services-contract-australia}},
note = {Free legal document template. Based on Common law of contract; Australian Consumer Law (Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth) Sch 2)}
}Also available for these jurisdictions:
Frequently Asked Questions
Under the Australian Consumer Law (Schedule 2 of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth)), mandatory consumer guarantees apply to all services supplied to consumers. These include guarantees under sections 60 to 62 that the services will be performed with due care and skill, will be fit for any specified purpose, and will be completed within a reasonable time. These guarantees cannot be excluded by contract. If a cleaning service provider fails to meet these guarantees, the consumer is entitled to a remedy — which may include resupply of the service or, in cases of a major failure, cancellation of the contract and a refund. Under Australia law, Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), parties should seek independent legal advice from a qualified lawyer to confirm compliance with all applicable requirements. Under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) regulates companies and financial services. Section 127 of the Corporations Act 2001 governs company execution of documents. Forms-legal.com provides this template as a starting point for Australia-compliant documentation.
If your cleaning business has a GST turnover of $75,000 or more per year ($150,000 for non-profits), you are required to register for GST under the A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax) Act 1999 (Cth) and charge 10% GST on taxable supplies, which includes cleaning services. You must issue valid tax invoices to clients showing the GST amount. If your turnover is below the threshold, registration is optional but voluntary registration may still be beneficial for claiming input tax credits on business expenses. Under Australia law, Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), parties should seek independent legal advice from a qualified lawyer to confirm compliance with all applicable requirements. Under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) regulates companies and financial services. Section 127 of the Corporations Act 2001 governs company execution of documents. Forms-legal.com provides this template as a starting point for Australia-compliant documentation.
Australian cleaning businesses should carry public liability insurance — commonly $10 million or $20 million in coverage — to protect against claims for property damage or personal injury caused during cleaning operations. If the business employs workers, workers' compensation insurance is mandatory in all states and territories under relevant state legislation (for example, the Workers Compensation Act 1987 (NSW) or the Accident Compensation Act 1985 (VIC)). Some commercial clients and body corporates may require evidence of current insurance certificates before granting site access. Under Australia law, Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), parties should seek independent legal advice from a qualified lawyer to confirm compliance with all applicable requirements. Under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) regulates companies and financial services. Section 127 of the Corporations Act 2001 governs company execution of documents. Forms-legal.com provides this template as a starting point for Australia-compliant documentation.
No. Under sections 64 and 64A of the Australian Consumer Law, terms that purport to exclude, restrict, or modify consumer guarantees are void to the extent of the inconsistency. However, where services are supplied to a business (not a consumer), a contract may limit the supplier's liability to resupplying the services or paying the cost of having them resupplied, provided the limitation is fair and reasonable having regard to all circumstances. This template includes a compliant limitation clause for business-to-business engagements. Under Australia law, Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), parties should seek independent legal advice from a qualified lawyer to confirm compliance with all applicable requirements. Under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) regulates companies and financial services. Section 127 of the Corporations Act 2001 governs company execution of documents. Forms-legal.com provides this template as a starting point for Australia-compliant documentation.
The Cleaning Services Award 2020 is a Modern Award under the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) that sets minimum pay rates, allowances, and working conditions for employees engaged in the cleaning industry. It applies to the employment relationship between a cleaning business and its employees — not to the commercial contract between the cleaning business and its clients. Your client-facing contract is governed by the Australian Consumer Law and general contract law. However, compliance with the Award affects your labour costs and therefore your pricing obligations to clients. Under Australia law, Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), parties should seek independent legal advice from a qualified lawyer to confirm compliance with all applicable requirements. Under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) regulates companies and financial services. Section 127 of the Corporations Act 2001 governs company execution of documents. Forms-legal.com provides this template as a starting point for Australia-compliant documentation.
This template is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. Consult a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation.Full disclaimer
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