Plumbing Apprenticeship Australia:
Complete Guide to Becoming a Licensed Plumber in 2025
A plumbing apprenticeship is one of the most valuable career pathways available in Australia, leading to a skilled trade that offers excellent earning potential, strong job security, and diverse career opportunities. With plumbers consistently in high demand and earning $85,000-$105,000+ annually, a plumbing apprenticeship sets you up for long-term success.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about plumbing apprenticeships in Australia, from how to secure an apprenticeship to the training involved, what you’ll earn, and the career opportunities available upon qualification.
What is a Plumbing Apprenticeship?
A plumbing apprenticeship is a structured four-year training program that combines paid on-the-job work experience with formal education through TAFE or a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). As a plumbing apprentice, you’ll work alongside licensed plumbers, learning practical skills while progressing toward your Certificate III in Plumbing.
Upon completing your apprenticeship and obtaining additional qualifications and licensing, you become a fully licensed plumber capable of working independently across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors.
Why Choose a Plumbing Apprenticeship?
Plumbing apprenticeships offer numerous advantages that make them an attractive career choice:
Excellent Earning Potential
Licensed plumbers earn between $85,000 and $105,000 annually, with experienced plumbers earning $ 100,000 to $140,000 or more. Self-employed plumbers can earn $ 120,000 to $200,000 or more per year.
Essential Service
Plumbing is an essential service that remains in demand regardless of economic conditions, providing exceptional job security.
Diverse Specializations
Plumbers can specialize in gas fitting, drainage, roofing plumbing, medical gas systems, backflow prevention, and fire protection, each offering premium rates.
Earn While You Learn
Plumbing apprentices earn a wage from day one, avoiding student debt while gaining valuable experience and qualifications.
Business Ownership Opportunities
Many plumbers eventually start their own businesses, with successful plumbing businesses generating annual revenues of $ 200,000 to $800,000 or more.
Government Support
Substantial government financial support, including the Key Apprenticeship Program, helps plumbing apprentices succeed.
How to Get a Plumbing Apprenticeship
Securing a plumbing apprenticeship requires preparation, persistence, and the right approach. Follow these steps to maximize your chances:
Step 1: Meet Basic Requirements
To start a plumbing apprenticeship in Australia, you typically need:
- Age: Minimum 15-16 years old (varies by state)
- Education: Year 10 completion (Year 12 preferred)
- Physical fitness: Ability to perform physical work, including lifting and working in confined spaces
- Driver’s license: Learner’s permit or full license (highly advantageous)
- Basic skills: Mathematics, problem-solving, and manual dexterity
No prior plumbing experience is required, though any construction or trade experience is beneficial.
Step 2: Prepare Your Application Materials
Create professional application materials that showcase your suitability:
Resume: Include education, work experience (even casual jobs), relevant skills, and references. Highlight reliability, physical capability, and willingness to learn.
Cover Letter: Customize for each employer, explaining why you want to become a plumber and what you’ll bring to their business. Mention any relevant experience or skills.
References: Obtain references from teachers, previous employers, or community leaders who can vouch for your character, work ethic, and reliability.
Step 3: Gain Relevant Experience
Pre-apprenticeship experience makes you more attractive to employers:
- Pre-apprenticeship courses: Short courses providing basic plumbing knowledge and skills
- Laboring work: Construction or plumbing laboring demonstrates physical capability
- Volunteer work: Community projects involving plumbing or construction
- School-based work experience: Placements with plumbing contractors
Any experience demonstrating reliability, physical capability, and genuine interest helps.
Step 4: Search for Apprenticeship Positions
Use multiple strategies to find apprenticeship opportunities:
Job Search Websites:
- SEEK (search “plumbing apprentice”)
- Indeed
- Australian Apprenticeships job board
- Jora
Direct Applications:
- Research plumbing businesses in your area
- Visit businesses in person with your resume
- Call to inquire about apprenticeship opportunities
- Follow up applications with phone calls
Group Training Organisations (GTOs):
- GTOs hire apprentices and place them with host employers
- Provides job security and a variety of experiences
- Search for plumbing GTOs in your state
Networking:
- Speak with family and friends in the plumbing trade
- Attend career expos and trade shows
- Join online communities and forums
Step 5: Prepare for Interviews
If you secure an interview, prepare thoroughly:
- Research the company and its services
- Prepare answers to common questions (Why plumbing? Why this company? What are your strengths?)
- Dress neatly and professionally
- Demonstrate enthusiasm and willingness to learn
- Ask thoughtful questions about the apprenticeship and training
- Bring copies of your resume and references
Employers value attitude and work ethic over experience. Show reliability, enthusiasm, and commitment to learning.
Step 6: Complete Pre-Employment Requirements
Once offered an apprenticeship, you may need to complete:
- Medical assessment: Ensuring physical fitness for plumbing work
- Police check: Required by some employers
- White Card: Construction induction card (often provided by employer)
- Working with Children Check: If working in schools or childcare facilities
Your employer will guide you through these requirements.
Step 7: Sign Your Training Contract
With your employer’s support, you’ll sign an apprenticeship training contract through your state’s apprenticeship authority. Your Apprentice Connect Australia Provider will assist with this process.
Plumbing Apprenticeship Training Structure
Understanding the training structure helps you prepare for the journey ahead:
Duration
Plumbing apprenticeships typically take four years (48 months) to complete. The apprenticeship covers the Certificate III in Plumbing, which qualifies you as a registered plumber.
Work Component
The majority of your time (approximately 80-90%) is spent working with your employer, learning on the job:
- First year: Basic tasks like digging trenches, carrying materials, assisting licensed plumbers, and learning tool use
- Second year: More complex tasks, basic installations, pipe cutting and joining, increased responsibility
- Third year: Independent work on simpler jobs, fixture installations, troubleshooting, and drainage work
- Fourth year: Near-qualified level work, complex installations, gas fitting (if pursuing), supervisory experience
Training Component
The remaining time (approximately 10-20%) involves formal training at TAFE or an RTO:
Delivery Methods:
- Block release: Attending TAFE full-time for 1-2 weeks at a time
- Day release: Attending TAFE one day per week
- Evening classes: Attending after work hours
- Online learning: Completing theory components remotely
What You’ll Study:
- Plumbing theory and principles
- Plumbing regulations and standards (Plumbing Code of Australia)
- Water supply systems
- Sanitary plumbing and drainage
- Stormwater systems
- Gas fitting (optional specialization)
- Roofing plumbing
- Mathematics and calculations
- Blueprint reading and interpretation
- Testing and commissioning
Qualification Achieved
Upon completion, you’ll receive a Certificate III in Plumbing (CPC32413), the nationally recognized qualification for registered plumbers in Australia.
Plumbing Apprentice Wages
Plumbing apprentices earn competitive wages that increase each year:
2025 Apprentice Wage Rates
Based on the Plumbing Award, apprentices earn a percentage of the qualified plumber’s wage:
First Year (Year 1):
- Weekly wage: $500-$650 per week
- Annual salary: $26,000-$34,000
Second Year (Year 2):
- Weekly wage: $600-$750 per week
- Annual salary: $31,000-$39,000
Third Year (Year 3):
- Weekly wage: $700-$850 per week
- Annual salary: $36,000-$44,000
Fourth Year (Year 4):
- Weekly wage: $800-$950 per week
- Annual salary: $42,000-$50,000
These are minimum award rates. Many employers pay above the award, particularly in metropolitan areas or for apprentices with strong skills.
Additional Entitlements
As a plumbing apprentice, you receive:
- Superannuation: 11.5% of wages (2025 rate)
- Annual leave: Four weeks paid leave per year
- Sick leave: Paid personal/carer’s leave
- Tool allowance: $20-$40 per week
- Overtime: Penalty rates for overtime, weekend, and night work
- Travel time: Payment for travel to job sites
- Meal allowances: For extended shifts
Financial Support for Plumbing Apprentices
Substantial government support is available to help plumbing apprentices succeed:
Key Apprenticeship Program (KAP)
Plumbing apprenticeships are priority occupations under KAP, providing:
- Full-time apprentices: Up to $10,000 over four years
- Part-time apprentices: Up to $5,000 over four years
Payments are made at key milestones throughout your training.
Apprentice Support Payments
Additional payments for eligible apprentices:
- $1,750 at 6 months
- $1,750 at 12 months
- $750 at 18 months
- $750 at 24 months
Trade Support Loans
Access up to $23,120 in loans over your apprenticeship, converted to grants upon completion and continued work in the trade.
Tool Vouchers
Many states offer tool vouchers ($1,000-$2,000) to help apprentices purchase essential tools and equipment.
Fee-Free TAFE
Plumbing apprenticeships may be eligible for Fee-Free TAFE, covering the cost of your formal training.
What Happens After Your Apprenticeship?
Completing your plumbing apprenticeship is just the beginning of your career journey:
Obtaining Your Plumbing License
After completing your Certificate III, you need additional qualifications to become a licensed plumber:
1. Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services (CPC40912): Required for licensing in most states
2. Supervised experience: Work under a licensed plumber while completing Certificate IV
3. License application: Apply for your plumbing license through your state authority
Once licensed, you can work independently, sign off on plumbing work, and supervise other plumbers.
Specialization Opportunities
Licensed plumbers can pursue additional endorsements and specializations:
Gas Fitting:
- Additional training and licensing
- Salary premium: +15-25%
- Work: Natural gas and LPG installations
Drainage Specialist:
- Specialized drainage work
- Salary premium: +10-20%
- Work: Sewer systems, stormwater, CCTV inspections
Roofing Plumber:
- Roof plumbing specialization
- Salary premium: +15-25%
- Work: Gutters, downpipes, flashings, weatherproofing
Medical Gas Plumber:
- Hospital and medical facility work
- Salary premium: +30-50%
- Work: Medical gas systems, critical safety systems
Backflow Prevention:
- Testing and certification
- Salary premium: +20-35%
- Work: Commercial and industrial backflow devices
Career Pathways
Residential Plumber:
- Salary: $80,000-$105,000
- Work: Home plumbing, renovations, repairs
- Lifestyle: Regular hours, local work
Commercial Plumber:
- Salary: $95,000-$130,000
- Work: Office buildings, retail centers, commercial projects
- Lifestyle: Varied projects, some travel
Industrial Plumber:
- Salary: $105,000-$140,000
- Work: Factories, processing plants, industrial facilities
- Lifestyle: Shift work, complex systems
Maintenance Plumber:
- Salary: $90,000-$115,000
- Work: Ongoing maintenance contracts, facility management
- Lifestyle: Stable employment, regular hours
Business Owner:
- Income: $120,000-$300,000+ (depending on business size)
- Charge customers: $80-$200+ per hour
- Unlimited earning potential
Challenges of Plumbing Apprenticeships
Understanding the challenges helps you prepare:
Lower Initial Wages
First-year apprentice wages ($26,000-$34,000) can be challenging, especially if living independently. Budgeting and financial planning are essential.
Physical Demands
Plumbing work involves heavy lifting, working in confined spaces, digging trenches, and working in various weather conditions. Physical fitness is essential.
Messy Work
Plumbing can involve working with sewage, dirty water, and unpleasant conditions. You need to be comfortable with this aspect of the work.
Study Requirements
Balancing full-time work with TAFE study requires time management and dedication. Theory, assignments, and exams must be completed alongside work.
Early Starts
Many plumbing jobs start early (6:00-7:00 AM), requiring adjustment to early morning routines.
Emergency Work
Plumbers are often called for emergency work, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
Tips for Success as a Plumbing Apprentice
Maximize your chances of success with these strategies:
- Develop a Strong Work Ethic
Arrive on time, work hard, take initiative, and demonstrate reliability. Employers value attitude and effort above all else.
- Ask Questions and Learn
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Experienced plumbers appreciate apprentices who want to learn and improve.
- Take Study Seriously
Dedicate time to TAFE work. Understanding theory makes practical work easier and helps you become a better plumber.
- Invest in Quality Tools
As you progress, invest in quality tools. Good tools make work easier and demonstrate professionalism.
- Network and Build Relationships
Build positive relationships with colleagues, other tradies, and suppliers. Networking opens future opportunities.
- Stay Safe and Hygienic
Follow safety procedures, use PPE, and maintain good hygiene practices. Plumbing can be hazardous and messy.
- Seek Diverse Experience
Try to gain experience across different sectors (residential, commercial, industrial) and specializations to become a well-rounded plumber.
- Consider Specializations Early
Think about which specializations interest you (gas fitting, drainage, medical gas) and pursue additional training.
Conclusion
A plumbing apprenticeship in Australia provides an exceptional pathway to a rewarding and well-paid career. With four years of structured training, substantial government support, and excellent job prospects, plumbing apprenticeships provide a practical alternative to university, leading to financial security and career satisfaction.
The journey from first-year apprentice to licensed plumber requires dedication, hard work, and perseverance. However, the rewards—earning $85,000-$105,000+ as a licensed plumber, with opportunities to earn $120,000-$200,000+ as a specialist or business owner—make the effort worthwhile.
Plumbing is a vital trade that will always be in high demand. By completing a plumbing apprenticeship, you’re investing in a career that provides job security, excellent earning potential, and the satisfaction of providing essential services to your community.
Start your plumbing apprenticeship journey today by preparing your application materials, researching plumbing businesses in your area, and reaching out to potential employers. Your future as a licensed plumber awaits.
Related Articles:
- How to Become a Plumber in Australia
- Plumber Salary Australia: What You Can Earn
- Apprenticeships in Australia: Complete Guide
- TAFE Courses for Trades: Plumbing Training Options