Electrician in Australia
Career Pathway & Jobs
The ultimate guide to apprenticeships, licensing, salaries, and FIFO opportunities for sparkies in 2025.
Overview
Electricians are among the highest-paid and most sought-after trades in Australia. They install, maintain, repair, and test electrical systems in residential, commercial, industrial, and mining environments.
High Demand
Critical shortages across construction and mining sectors.
Strong Salary
Top tier earning potential, especially in FIFO roles.
Job Stability
Essential service trade with long-term security.
What Does an Electrician Do?
From smart homes to solar farms, the scope of work is vast. Typical duties include:
- Installing wiring, lighting, and power systems
- Repairing and testing electrical faults
- Working on switchboards and safety systems
- Installing and maintaining solar systems
- Commercial & industrial electrical installations
- Data cabling and smart home systems
- Instrumentation and control systems
Work Environments
Electrician Salary in Australia (2025)
Salaries vary by state and industry. Below is the national average.
| Experience Level | Salary / Rate Range |
|---|---|
| Apprentice (1st–4th year) | $16 – $28 / hr |
| Newly Qualified | $70,000 – $85,000 |
| Experienced Tradesperson | $85,000 – $130,000 |
| Industrial/Comms Electrician | $100,000 – $150,000 |
| FIFO Electrician | $140,000 – $190,000+ |
*Figures are estimates based on 2024-2025 industry data.
Apprenticeship Pathway
Find Employer
Find a boss willing to take you on and sign the apprenticeship contract.
Work + TAFE
Work 4 days a week and attend TAFE 1 day a week (Cert III Electrotechnology).
Capstone
Complete your logbook and pass the final 'Capstone' practical exam.
Get Licensed
Apply to your state regulator for your A-Grade licence.
Looking for an Apprenticeship?
Use our free tool to search for open positions by state and experience level.
Launch Apprenticeship Finder ToolLicensing Requirements
Licensing is handled by state regulators. You must apply in the state you live in.
NSW - Fair Trading
Qualified Supervisor Certificate
VIC - Energy Safe Vic
A-Grade Electrician Licence
QLD - ESO / QBCC
Electrical Mechanic Licence
WA - Building & Energy
Electrical Worker Licence
SA - CBS
Electrical Worker Registration
NT & TAS
Electrical Worker / Practitioner Licence
AI Licensing Checker
Not sure what you need? Our AI tool will soon help you find the exact steps per state.
Required Tickets
-
White Card Mandatory for all construction work.
-
CPR & LVR Low Voltage Rescue (refreshed yearly).
-
Working at Heights Essential for solar and commercial.
-
EWP (Elevated Work Platform) For scissor and boom lifts (11m+).
Key Courses (TAFE)
UEE30820 – Cert III in Electrotechnology Electrician
This is the standard trade qualification required across Australia.
Available at:
FIFO Electrician Pathway
Fly In, Fly Out. The highest salaries in the country.
FIFO electrical work offers salaries ranging from $140k – $190k+. However, it requires specific experience and tickets.
FIFO Checklist
- Full Electrical Licence
- 2-3 Years Experience
- White Card & EWP
- Mining Medical
- Drug & Alcohol Screen
Is it worth it?
The Good
- High salaries & penalty rates
- National licensing portability
- Excellent job security
- Pathways to self-employment
The Challenges
- Physically demanding work
- Strict safety regulations
- 4-year training period
- Working in heat/confined spaces
Frequently Asked Questions
Is becoming an electrician hard?
The apprenticeship is demanding physically and mentally (lots of maths in TAFE), but it is very achievable with the right attitude and study habits.
How long does it take?
It typically takes 4 years to complete the Certificate III apprenticeship and pass your capstone test.
Can migrants work as electricians?
Yes, but you cannot simply swap your overseas licence. You must complete a Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) skills assessment and often complete 'gap training' in Australia to get licensed.
Are electricians in demand?
Yes — extremely. Every state in Australia has listed Electricians as a skill shortage, ensuring plenty of work for the foreseeable future.