Welder in Australia
Fabrication, Pipe & FIFO Jobs
The ultimate guide to welding apprenticeships, AS1796 tickets, and high-paying FIFO shutdown roles in 2025.
Overview
Welders are skilled tradespeople who join, cut, and repair metal components using specialised processes like MIG, TIG, and Stick. They are essential in mining, construction, oil & gas, and defence industries.
Mining & FIFO
Massive demand for maintenance and shutdown welders in WA & QLD.
Structural Steel
Key role in major infrastructure, rail, and commercial construction.
Specialised Skills
Pressure and pipe welding offer some of the highest trade rates.
What Does a Welder Do?
Tasks range from heavy structural work on mine sites to precision TIG welding on pipes. Common duties include:
- MIG, TIG, Stick (SMAW) welding
- Fabricating and repairing metal structures
- Interpreting engineering drawings
- Cutting, grinding, and preparing metal
- Welding pipes, frames, tanks, and heavy equipment
- Working on construction & mine sites
- Pressure welding (advanced skill)
- Shutdown work for mining sites
Work Environments
Welder Salary in Australia (2025)
Welding salaries vary significantly based on certification (tickets) and location.
| Experience Level | Salary / Rate Range |
|---|---|
| Apprentice Welder | $16 – $28 / hr |
| Newly Qualified | $60,000 – $75,000 |
| Experienced Welder | $75,000 – $110,000 |
| Pipe / Pressure Welder | $100,000 – $140,000 |
| Mining / Industrial Welder | $110,000 – $150,000 |
| FIFO / Shutdowns | $150,000 – $220,000+ |
Shutdown Rates
Can pay $60–$80/hr base, rising to $100/hr+ on penalties.
Apprenticeship Pathway
The primary qualification is the Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade (MEM30319). It typically takes 3-4 years.
Find Employer
Find a workshop or fabrication company to sponsor your apprenticeship.
Train & Study
Learn MIG, TIG, Stick, and blueprint reading at TAFE + on-site.
Qualify
Complete assessments to earn your Certificate III in Engineering - Fabrication.
Get Tickets
Earn AS1796 or ISO certifications to access high-paying sites.
Looking for an Apprenticeship?
Use our free tool to search for Welder/Fabricator positions by state.
Launch Apprenticeship Finder ToolLicences & Certifications
While there is no single "Welding Licence," specific industry certifications are required for high-level work.
AS1796 Welding Tickets
These are the "Gold Standard" for pressure and pipe welding in Australia.
- Tickets 1-9: Cover various alloy & process combinations.
- Tickets 3, 4, 5: Focus on pressure welding.
- Tickets 7 & 8: Focus on pipe welding.
Site Requirements
-
White Card Mandatory for all construction work.
-
Confined Spaces Essential for tank and vessel work.
-
Working at Heights Required for structural assembly.
-
ISO 9606 International certification for specific processes (MIG/TIG).
Where are the jobs?
WA Mining
Massive demand for heavy maintenance & shutdowns.
Defence
Shipbuilding & submarine projects (SA/WA).
Oil & Gas
Pipeline projects in QLD and NT.
Rail
Manufacturing & maintenance in VIC/NSW.
FIFO Welder Pathway
Earn $220k+ on Australian Mine Sites.
FIFO welders are one of Australia's highest-paid manual trades. From bucket repairs on excavators to pipeline shutdowns, the work is hard but the rewards are huge.
Job Ready Checklist
- Cert III Engineering
- White Card
- Confined Spaces
- Working at Heights
- Mining Medical
Is it worth it?
The Good
- Very high earning potential
- Massive demand in mining
- Entry with minimal schooling
- Skills transferable globally
The Challenges
- Hot, loud, hazardous environment
- Physically demanding work
- Risk of burns and metal fumes
- Away from home for long periods
Frequently Asked Questions
Is welding a good career in Australia?
Yes — it’s highly in demand. With major infrastructure and mining projects expanding, qualified welders have excellent pay opportunities.
Do welders need a licence?
Not a national licence like electricians, but specific certifications (AS1796/ISO) are essential for high-paying roles like pressure welding.
What is the highest-paying type of welding?
Pressure welding and pipe welding, especially in the Oil & Gas or Mining sectors on a FIFO roster.
How long is the apprenticeship?
Usually 3–4 years to complete the Certificate III in Engineering - Fabrication Trade.