The Subbies' Toolbox Podcast

Michelle Cirson
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The Subbies Toolbox Podcast is for Australian commercial subcontractors who want to understand the real rules of construction and stop being worn down by outdated systems and one-sided contracts. Hosted by Michelle Cirson, a construction lawyer, adjudicator and former builder contracts administrator, this podcast calls out industry norms that no longer make sense and explains how subcontractors can navigate them with clarity and confidence. Michelle explores topics like contract risk, power imbalances, commercial leverage and smarter ways to work within the system while pushing for better outcomes across the industry. Season 2 marks the evolution of the podcast from Tricks of Your Trade into The Subbies Toolbox, with a sharper focus on education, systems, and advocacy that help subcontractors stay out of disputes and in control of their businesses. New episodes are released weekly. www.subbiestoolbox.com.au

  1. Oct 4

    Episode 21 - will there be a BAN on retentions?

    Could banning cash retentions actually create a bigger problem for subcontractors?  In this episode of The Subbies Toolbox Podcast, Michelle Cirson takes a look at the push to ban cash retentions in construction and what that conversation could mean for Australian subcontractors.  Retentions have been causing problems in the industry for years. They get caught up in payment disputes, left sitting upstream long after the work is finished and can become low-hanging fruit when a relationship with a builder goes sideways.  But removing cash retentions isn't necessarily as simple as it sounds. If builders still require security, subbies could find themselves being asked for bank guarantees, insurance bonds or Director's Guarantees instead.  In this episode, you'll learn:  How retentions become tangled up in payment disputes  What could replace cash retentions if they were banned  How bank guarantees can create a different risk for subcontractors  How Queensland's retention and trust account rules work in practice  How practical completion and defects liability periods affect retention release  Practical ways subbies can negotiate retention arrangements that better reflect the work they're actually doing  Australian Government working groups at both a State and Federal level are looking at ways to make construction businesses more solvent and reliable - and retentions are an obvious band-aid. But looking at banning retentions in isolation to the requirements of upstream parties to provide security to their financiers is short sighted, and could result in subcontractors signing up to more risky types of security, with harsher consequences if recourse is sought. Listen to Episode #21 of The Subbies Toolbox Podcast to understand the bigger picture before assuming a ban on cash retentions would automatically be a win for subbies.  The Subbies Toolbox Membership gives subbies practical tools and support to manage builders' contracts, protect cashflow and deal with these issues before they become expensive disputes.  Resources  Tired of builders pushing you around? Arm yourself with the Subbies' Toolbox Membership   Want to negotiate better contract terms? Explore Negotiation School  Get Free Checklists, Templates and guides here www.subbiestoolbox.com.au.  Get Your Fix on Social Media   Follow Michelle on Linked In - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellecirson/  Follow Michelle on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/subbiestoolbox/   Follow Michelle on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/tricksofyourtrade  Rate and Review the Podcast  If you like what you’re hearing on The Subbies’ Toolbox Podcast, support the show by taking a few seconds to leave a rating and/or comment on ApplePodcast, or Spotify Thanks!  About the Host    Michelle Cirson is construction lawyer, adjudicator and former commercial builder’s CA who now works exclusively with Australian subcontractors. She helps commercial subcontractors manage their builders’ contracts and get paid on time, without losing jobs and blowing up builder relationships. Michelle is the founder of The Subbies Toolbox Membership.    If you want to understand how this system actually works and where subcontractors tend to get caught out, you’ll find more resources at www.subbiestoolbox.com.au

    Episode 21 - will there be a BAN on retentions?

  2. Sep 9

    Episode 20 - Maximum Due Dates for Subbie Invoices

    In this episode of The Subbies Toolbox Podcast, Michelle Cirson looks at the maximum payment due dates that apply to subcontractors around Australia, and the rules many subbies don’t realise are sitting in special laws created to get Subcontractors paid. Those laws are called "Security of Payment" laws, and they override terms in your builder's contract that try to pay you later.  For Australian subcontractors who think 45 days EOM is "industry standard", - that's not actually true. Longer payment terms tie up your cashflow, and sometimes subbies keep accepting them simply because that’s how a long-term builder relationship has always worked.  Michelle walks through the different position across each state and territory, what happens when a contract tries to push payment beyond the statutory maximum, and the importance of understanding when the payment clock actually starts.  Resources Tired of builders pushing you around? Arm yourself with the Subbies' Toolbox Membership Want to negotiate better contract terms? Explore Negotiation School Get Free Checklists, Templates and guides here www.subbiestoolbox.com.au Listen to the full episode, then download the Maximum Due Dates summary here:  DOWNLOAD SUMMARY HERE Get Your Fix on Social Media Follow Michelle on Linked In - HERE  Follow Michelle on Instagram - HERE Follow Michelle on Facebook - HERE  Rate and Review the Podcast If you like what you’re hearing on The Subbies’ Toolbox Podcast, support the show by taking a few seconds to leave a rating and/or comment on ApplePodcast, or Spotify Thanks! About the Host Michelle Cirson is construction lawyer, adjudicator and former commercial builder’s CA who now works exclusively with Australian subcontractors. She helps commercial subcontractors manage their builders’ contracts and get paid on time, without losing jobs and blowing up builder relationships. Michelle is the founder of The Subbies Toolbox Membership. If you want to understand how this system actually works and where subcontractors tend to get caught out, you’ll find more resources at www.subbiestoolbox.com.au

    Episode 20 - Maximum Due Dates for Subbie Invoices

  3. Aug 25

    Episode 19 - Your Builder Is Being Paid to Pay You in Arrears

    What if paying a fee to get your progress claim sooner is actually helping your builder pay you later?  In this episode of The Subbies Toolbox Podcast, Michelle Cirson takes a closer look at early payment platforms being used in commercial construction and the questions Australian subcontractors should be asking before signing up.  Michelle explains what she has seen through contract reviews and what Subbies Toolbox members have experienced when using these payment arrangements. She unpacks the potential risks sitting behind what can look like a handy cashflow solution, including: guarantees, payment timeframes, and the possibility of builders benefiting financially from the arrangement.  In this episode, you'll learn:  How early payment platforms can work when you're waiting for a builder to pay   What can happen if the builder goes broke before the financier gets paid   The personal risk that can sit inside Director's Guarantees   How payment terms can interact with Security of Payment timeframes   What to consider before giving up part of your progress claim to get paid sooner   How better payment terms and accounts receivable systems could help protect your cashflow   There can be a genuine commercial reason to use early payment finance. The important bit is knowing what you've signed up to, what it's costing you and who else benefits from the arrangement.  If you're an Australian subcontractor working in Commercial Construction, this episode will give you plenty to think about before you automatically click the early payment option.  Listen to Episode 19 of The Subbies Toolbox Podcast, and for more practical support managing contracts, payments and commercial risk, check out The Subbies Toolbox Membership.  Resources  Tired of builders pushing you around? Arm yourself with the Subbies' Toolbox Membership   Want to negotiate better contract terms? Explore Negotiation School  Get Checklists, Templates and guides here www.subbiestoolbox.com.au.  Get Your Fix on Social Media   Follow Michelle on Linked In - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellecirson/  Follow Michelle on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/subbiestoolbox/   Follow Michelle on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/tricksofyourtrade  Rate and Review the Podcast  If you like what you’re hearing on The Subbies’ Toolbox Podcast, support the show by taking a few seconds to leave a rating and/or comment on ApplePodcast, or Spotify Thanks!  About the Host    Michelle Cirson is construction lawyer, adjudicator and former commercial builder’s CA who now works exclusively with Australian subcontractors. She helps commercial subcontractors manage their builders’ contracts and get paid on time, without losing jobs and blowing up builder relationships. Michelle is the founder of The Subbies Toolbox Membership.    If you want to understand how this system actually works and where subcontractors tend to get caught out, you’ll find more resources at www.subbiestoolbox.com.au

    Episode 19 - Your Builder Is Being Paid to Pay You in Arrears

  4. Aug 12

    Episode 18 - What Is In An Accounts Receivable Escalation Procedure (AREP)

    Getting paid isn’t just about sending an invoice and chasing it when it’s overdue. In this episode of The Subbies Toolbox Podcast, Michelle Cirson breaks down what should actually go into an Accounts Receivable Escalation Procedure (AREP), and how it should work alongside the Security of Payment laws in your state or territory. From getting your payment claim right in the first place, through to payment schedules, second opportunity notices, adjudication and suspension, Michelle explains why the timing and order of each step matters. Michelle also shares what happened when a Subbies Toolbox Member relied on AI for advice about a Security of Payment deadline, and why these processes aren’t always as straightforward as they look. Thankfully it was picked up before the subbie got too far down the track. In this episode, you’ll learn: • What an Accounts Receivable Escalation Procedure should cover • Why your reference date and payment claim matter from day one • Why getting a payment schedule from your builder can work in your favour • How Security of Payment processes differ between states and territories • Why Michelle recommends claiming everything completed less what has actually been paid into your bank account • Why letters of demand and debt collectors usually aren’t Michelle’s first choice for construction debts The point of an AREP isn’t to become more contractual with your builders. It’s to have a calm, consistent process already sitting there when payment goes sideways, so you know what happens next and don’t lose valuable rights while trying to work it out under pressure. If your business doesn’t have an Accounts Receivable Escalation Procedure yet, this episode is a good place to start. Resources Tired of builders pushing you around? Arm yourself with the Subbies' Toolbox Membership Want to negotiate better contract terms? Explore Negotiation School Get Free Checklists, Templates and guides here www.subbiestoolbox.com.au Get Your Fix on Social Media Follow Michelle on Linked In - HERE  Follow Michelle on Instagram - HERE Follow Michelle on Facebook - HERE  Rate and Review the Podcast If you like what you’re hearing on The Subbies’ Toolbox Podcast, support the show by taking a few seconds to leave a rating and/or comment on ApplePodcast, or Spotify Thanks! About the Host Michelle Cirson is construction lawyer, adjudicator and former commercial builder’s CA who now works exclusively with Australian subcontractors. She helps commercial subcontractors manage their builders’ contracts and get paid on time, without losing jobs and blowing up builder relationships. Michelle is the founder of The Subbies Toolbox Membership. If you want to understand how this system actually works and where subcontractors tend to get caught out, you’ll find more resources at www.subbiestoolbox.com.au

    Episode 18 - What Is In An Accounts Receivable Escalation Procedure (AREP)

  5. Aug 5

    Episode 17 - The Cost of Fighting for Principles in Construction

    What happens when proving you're right ends up costing more than the dispute itself? In this episode of The Subbies Toolbox Podcast, Michelle Cirson explores the real cost of fighting "on principle" and why taking the emotion out of a dispute can often lead to better commercial outcomes. Using a high-profile legal case and a real construction dispute involving millions of dollars, Michelle explains how emotionally driven decisions can distract subcontractors from the processes that actually protect their cashflow and legal position. In this episode, you'll learn: Why fighting on principle isn't always the best commercial decision How emotion can cloud your judgement during payment disputes Why builders and subcontractors often make decisions from very different commercial positions The risks of letting frustration derail your Security of Payment strategy How an Accounts Receivable Escalation Procedure can help you make better decisions under pressure If you've ever found yourself saying, "It's the principle of it," this episode will help you take a step back, think strategically and focus on protecting your business. Resources Tired of builders pushing you around? Arm yourself with the Subbies' Toolbox Membership Want to negotiate better contract terms? Explore Negotiation School Get Free Checklists, Templates and guides here www.subbiestoolbox.com.au Get Your Fix on Social Media Follow Michelle on Linked In - HERE  Follow Michelle on Instagram - HERE Follow Michelle on Facebook - HERE  Rate and Review the Podcast If you like what you’re hearing on The Subbies’ Toolbox Podcast, support the show by taking a few seconds to leave a rating and/or comment on ApplePodcast, or Spotify Thanks! About the Host Michelle Cirson is construction lawyer, adjudicator and former commercial builder’s CA who now works exclusively with Australian subcontractors. She helps commercial subcontractors manage their builders’ contracts and get paid on time, without losing jobs and blowing up builder relationships. Michelle is the founder of The Subbies Toolbox Membership. If you want to understand how this system actually works and where subcontractors tend to get caught out, you’ll find more resources at www.subbiestoolbox.com.au

    Episode 17 - The Cost of Fighting for Principles in Construction

  6. Jul 29

    Episode 16 - Trusting the Builder's Staffer with Your Money

    This week on The Subbies Toolbox Podcast, Michelle shares the story behind a social media post that sparked plenty of debate across the construction industry. Drawing on her years working inside builder organisations as a Contract Administrator, Michelle opens up about mistakes she made, decisions she witnessed, and the uncomfortable truth about relying on builder staff to protect your business. If you've ever believed that having a good relationship with the builder's CA, Project Manager or Commercial Manager will keep you safe, this episode challenges that thinking. Michelle explains why staff inside building companies have their own pressures, priorities and incentives, and why your business can't depend on someone else's decision-making. In this episode you'll learn: Why good relationships don't guarantee good commercial outcomes What really influences builder staff when they're making decisions The danger of underpricing work and expecting someone else to stop you How progress claims can hide serious cash flow problems What radical accountability actually looks like for subcontractors The biggest lesson is simple. No one inside a builder's office is more responsible for your profitability than you are. If you want a stronger subcontracting business, your systems, pricing and financial decisions need to stand on their own. Download our free guide: How to Claim Cost Increases Under Fixed Price Contracts https://www.subbiestoolbox.com.au/cost Resources Tired of builders pushing you around? Arm yourself with the Subbies' Toolbox Membership Want to negotiate better contract terms? Explore Negotiation School Get Free Checklists, Templates and guides here www.subbiestoolbox.com.au Get Your Fix on Social Media Follow Michelle on Linked In - HERE  Follow Michelle on Instagram - HERE Follow Michelle on Facebook - HERE  Rate and Review the Podcast If you like what you’re hearing on The Subbies’ Toolbox Podcast, support the show by taking a few seconds to leave a rating and/or comment on ApplePodcast, or Spotify Thanks! About the Host Michelle Cirson is construction lawyer, adjudicator and former commercial builder’s CA who now works exclusively with Australian subcontractors. She helps commercial subcontractors manage their builders’ contracts and get paid on time, without losing jobs and blowing up builder relationships. Michelle is the founder of The Subbies Toolbox Membership. If you want to understand how this system actually works and where subcontractors tend to get caught out, you’ll find more resources at www.subbiestoolbox.com.au

    Episode 16 - Trusting the Builder's Staffer with Your Money

  7. Jul 21

    Episode 15 - Don't Use a Debt Collector Until You've Listened to This

    This week on The Subbies Toolbox Podcast, I'm talking about a topic that catches a lot of Aussie Subbies out when cashflow gets tight: debt collectors. When a builder isn't paying, bringing in a debt collector can feel like the obvious next step. But before you hand over 18% to 25% of your debt, there are a few things you need to know. In this episode, I explain how debt collectors actually operate, why they often aren't the best option for Australian Subcontractors, and how they can accidentally interfere with your ability to use Security of Payment legislation. We also unpack the difference between a letter of demand and a compliant payment claim, why so many businesses are relying on outdated debt recovery systems, and how a proper accounts receivable escalation procedure can dramatically improve your chances of getting paid. In this episode: • How debt collectors make their money • The hidden risks of debt collection agreements • Why letters of demand often achieve very little • Common mistakes subcontractors make with payment claims • How Security of Payment laws can help you recover money faster • The importance of a compliant accounts receivable escalation procedure • What Aussie Subbies should do before engaging a debt collector  Resources Tired of builders pushing you around? Arm yourself with the Subbies' Toolbox Membership Want to negotiate better contract terms? Explore Negotiation School Get Free Checklists, Templates and guides here www.subbiestoolbox.com.au Get Your Fix on Social Media Follow Michelle on Linked In - HERE  Follow Michelle on Instagram - HERE Follow Michelle on Facebook - HERE  Rate and Review the Podcast If you like what you’re hearing on The Subbies’ Toolbox Podcast, support the show by taking a few seconds to leave a rating and/or comment on ApplePodcast, or Spotify Thanks! About the Host Michelle Cirson is construction lawyer, adjudicator and former commercial builder’s CA who now works exclusively with Australian subcontractors. She helps commercial subcontractors manage their builders’ contracts and get paid on time, without losing jobs and blowing up builder relationships. Michelle is the founder of The Subbies Toolbox Membership. If you want to understand how this system actually works and where subcontractors tend to get caught out, you’ll find more resources at www.subbiestoolbox.com.au

    Episode 15 - Don't Use a Debt Collector Until You've Listened to This

  8. Jul 15

    Episode 14 - How Builders DEED Away Their Debt

    This week on The Subbies Toolbox Podcast, I'm unpacking one of the most frustrating situations subcontractors face in commercial construction.  What happens when a builder tells you they can't pay?  More importantly, what happens when they offer you a deal instead?  After a recent conversation with excavation contractor Jimmy Starbuck, I found myself reflecting on a story that will sound familiar to many Aussie subbies. A developer convinced multiple subcontractors and suppliers to keep working despite not being paid, relying on the promise that everyone would get looked after at the end.  It raises an important question.  When a builder says they're going broke, should you believe them?  In this episode, I explain how deeds of release are commonly used to settle debts, the warning signs subcontractors should be watching for, and why relying on the insolvency system as your safety net is rarely a winning strategy.  We also talk about trade credit insurance, accounts receivable escalation procedures, and how to position yourself so you're making decisions from a place of strength instead of fear.  In this episode:  What a deed of release actually does  Why builders use debt settlement deals  The psychology behind "I'll go broke if you push me"  The dangers of waiting until the end of a project  How communication between subcontractors changes the game  Trade credit insurance pitfalls you need to know  Why every subbie needs an accounts receivable escalation procedure  Resources Tired of builders pushing you around? Arm yourself with the Subbies' Toolbox Membership Want to negotiate better contract terms? Explore Negotiation School Get Free Checklists, Templates and guides here www.subbiestoolbox.com.au Get Your Fix on Social Media Follow Michelle on Linked In - HERE  Follow Michelle on Instagram - HERE Follow Michelle on Facebook - HERE  Rate and Review the Podcast If you like what you’re hearing on The Subbies’ Toolbox Podcast, support the show by taking a few seconds to leave a rating and/or comment on ApplePodcast, or Spotify Thanks! About the Host Michelle Cirson is construction lawyer, adjudicator and former commercial builder’s CA who now works exclusively with Australian subcontractors. She helps commercial subcontractors manage their builders’ contracts and get paid on time, without losing jobs and blowing up builder relationships. Michelle is the founder of The Subbies Toolbox Membership. If you want to understand how this system actually works and where subcontractors tend to get caught out, you’ll find more resources at www.subbiestoolbox.com.au

    Episode 14 - How Builders DEED Away Their Debt
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About

The Subbies Toolbox Podcast is for Australian commercial subcontractors who want to understand the real rules of construction and stop being worn down by outdated systems and one-sided contracts. Hosted by Michelle Cirson, a construction lawyer, adjudicator and former builder contracts administrator, this podcast calls out industry norms that no longer make sense and explains how subcontractors can navigate them with clarity and confidence. Michelle explores topics like contract risk, power imbalances, commercial leverage and smarter ways to work within the system while pushing for better outcomes across the industry. Season 2 marks the evolution of the podcast from Tricks of Your Trade into The Subbies Toolbox, with a sharper focus on education, systems, and advocacy that help subcontractors stay out of disputes and in control of their businesses. New episodes are released weekly. www.subbiestoolbox.com.au

Information

  • Creator
    Michelle Cirson
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    86
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Subbies Toolbox. All rights reserved. This podcast and its content are provided for general information only and do not constitute legal advice.
  • Show Website
    The Subbies' Toolbox Podcast

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