It is official! Trades professionals in Australia earn more than many office jobs. According to recent industry figures, the average earnings of a tradesperson are significantly higher than those of many other professions. As of 2024, trades professionals in Australia earn, on average, $85 per hour, reflecting the high demand for skilled labour and the essential nature of their work
Which Trade Earns the Most per Hour?
Here’s a breakdown of the highest-paid trades per hour in no particular order..
- Electricians: $91.21
- Carpentry: $76.30
- Plumbing: $94.58
- Plastering: $65.20
- Tiling & Paving: $59.85
- Building & Renovations: $85.90
- Painting: $58.40
These figures illustrate the substantial earning potential for trades professionals. It’s important to note that most tradespeople in Australia work as sole traders or subcontractors, meaning their hourly rate must cover their own superannuation, insurances, and other expenses. Also, do note that the amounts are collated and averaged from various sources such as Seek.com. Figures may vary in a lot of factors
General Earnings for Trades Workers
In general, plumbers, metal fabricators, and electricians are the highest-paid trades workers in Australia. However, this can vary from each state. High-level carpenters often become builders who can earn significantly more when running entire projects as managers compared to sole contracting tradespeople.
Salaries for Other Trades
Many trades not covered in other articles also show strong earnings. According to Glassdoor, the average salaries for some other trades are in a year:
- Welder/Metal Fabricator: $92,300
- Automotive Electrician: $88,450
Studying Trades as an International Student
Pathway to Aus offers numerous courses to international students aiming to become skilled tradespeople. These courses typically span over two years and combine in-class study with 360 hours of vocational placement, providing practical experience. Here are some trades available in Pathway to Aus to international students.
- Metal Fabrication/Welding
- Carpentry
- Joinery
- Cabinet Making
- Automotive Electrician
- Automotive Body Repair
- Automotive Mechanical
- Painting and Decorating
- Plastering
- Bricklaying
- Tiling
- Boat Building
- Chef
- Electrical Instrumentation
Apprenticeships and Working in Australia
Foreigners cannot undertake a trade apprenticeship in Australia without a valid work visa. However, they can enrol in trade studies at private colleges and TAFEs across Australia, completing the required Certificate III in their trade in two years, including vocational placement
Recognizing Overseas Qualifications
Overseas tradespeople can apply to have their qualifications recognised in Australia. The process varies by trade. Most trades are on the government’s Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List, meaning qualified and experienced tradespeople may be eligible for various work visas. Generally, you need an overseas trade qualification equivalent to the Certificate III in Australia and at least three years of experience to pass a skills assessment.
If you’re looking for a rewarding career path with high demand and excellent earning potential, consider studying a trade in Australia! Pathway to Aus can help you navigate the process and find the perfect trade course for you. Contact our team of experts today and build your future with the skills to thrive!
Disclaimer:
The salary information provided in this blog is based on available data from industry sources as of 2024. Please note that these figures are averages and may vary significantly based on factors such as location, level of experience, specific job role, and individual business expenses. Additionally, the data may be subject to changes due to economic conditions, labour market trends, and other external factors.
The hourly rates mentioned include the costs that tradespeople incur for their superannuation, insurances, and other business expenses. Actual take-home pay may be lower after accounting for these costs.
For the most accurate and up-to-date salary information, we recommend consulting multiple sources such as government labour reports, industry surveys, and job market analyses. Pathway to Aus does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the salary information provided and disclaims any liability for actions taken based on this information.
