i thought this was an important topic for some and i just finished reading a book with all the information about where to go if in doubt so here is a list ect...
1... ask family and friends if they can recommend anyone word of mouth is still a great source
2....to check if a builder is registered you can call the building practioners board on 1300360320 or visit their website at http://www.buildingcommission.com.au
3....ask to see the most recent work of your builder if they are a good builder they will be happy to show you what they have done.beware of builders who say ..oh the clients wouldnt like that...or..i try to keep my clients personel details personel
4....if getting your own plans drawn up ask your architect if they can recomend someone who has built their homes before.
5....to find out how long builders have been in the trade or if they have traded under another name you can contact the australian securities and investment commission (ASIC)
ph:03-51773988 or their website at http://www.asic.gov.au
6....to find out a builders reputation you can check with victorian civil and administrative tribunal (VCAT) visit their website at http://www.vcat.vic.gov.au
7....to find out if a builder has been prosecuted or has any enforceable undertakings against him or if the builder has breached any domestic building laws or other consumer laws they are listed on the consumer affairs website at http://www.consumer.vic.gov.au
8.....to find out if your builder has any prosecutions or disciplinary action against them by the building practioners boards then these results are published in the building commissions "inform" magazine available on their website at http://www.buildingcommission.com.au
9.... the book i refer too is a great source of information and is available from the consumer affairs website at www.consumer.vic.gov.au it is called "building and renovating a guide for consumers"
10.....finally if you have doubts about any builder then keep looking if your not happy at the picking stage chances are you may be miserable by handover stage. trust your instincts we have them for a reason if it seems too good too be true it usually is.
good luck finding a builder and may your journey be as exciting as it should be
cheers shelley
p.s. if your in other states just swap your states abbreviation in the web address