If you’re considering a career in plumbing—or maybe you’re just curious how much these essential workers actually earn—you’re not alone. In Australia, plumbers are in high demand, especially as housing construction surges and aging infrastructure needs upgrades. But what does that mean for your wallet? Is plumbing a path to financial stability? Or is it just hard work for average pay?
We’ve dug into the latest data from government sources, industry surveys, and real plumber testimonials to give you a clear, honest breakdown ofhow much a plumber makes a year in Australia—down to the dollar, by experience, location, and specialization.
No fluff. No guesswork. Just facts you can use.
What’s the Average Annual Salary for a Plumber in Australia?
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) and job portal Indeed Australia, the average annual salary for a qualified plumber in 2025 is approximately $85,000–$95,000.
But here’s the key detail: this isn’t a one-size-fits-all number.
Entry-level plumbers (1–3 years experience): $65,000–$75,000
Licensed plumbing business owners: $120,000–$180,000+
Why such a wide range? Because plumbing isn’t just about fixing leaks. It’s about emergency call-outs, commercial projects, gas fitting, solar hot water systems, and even working in remote areas—all of which affect pay.
“I started as a trainee making $55k. Five years later, I’m running my own team. Last year, I cleared $162k after expenses. It’s not easy, but the money is there if you show up and learn.” — Mark T., licensed plumber, Perth (2024 interview)
How Do Salaries Vary by State and City?
Location matters—big time. Australia’s cost of living and construction demand vary wildly across states. Here’s how plumber earnings stack up:
Western Australia
$98,000–$110,000
High mining and infrastructure demand; overtime common
Northern Territory
$95,000–$120,000
Remote work premiums; often includes accommodation
New South Wales
$88,000–$100,000
Sydney and Newcastle have high competition but high pay
Victoria
$85,000–$95,000
Melbourne’s housing boom keeps demand strong
Queensland
$82,000–$93,000
Tropical climate = more plumbing emergencies (leaks, floods)
South Australia
$78,000–$88,000
Stable market, lower cost of living
Tasmania
$75,000–$85,000
Smaller market, but less competition
ACT (Canberra)
$87,000–$98,000
Government projects and high standards = higher pay
💡 Pro Tip: Plumbers in WA and NT often earn $20–$30/hour extra for working in remote or fly-in-fly-out (FIFO) roles. Some even earn $150–$200/hour during emergencies.
What Are the Top Ways Plumbers Earn More Than the Average?
Want to break past the $95k ceiling? Here’s how top earners do it:
✅ 1. Get Certified in Gas Fitting
Gas plumbing is a high-demand specialty. Certified gas fitters earn 15–25% more than standard plumbers. In NSW, a gas-certified plumber averages $105,000/year.
✅ 2. Offer 24/7 Emergency Services
Emergency call-outs (leaking pipes at 2 a.m., burst water mains) can earn you $150–$300 per job—often double the standard rate.
✅ 3. Specialize in Green Plumbing
Solar water heaters, rainwater systems, and water-efficient fittings are booming. Plumbers trained in sustainable plumbing (look into Wikipedia’s guide on sustainable architecture ) are sought after by eco-conscious builders.
✅ 4. Start Your Own Business
Owning a plumbing company isn’t just about labor—it’s about margins. With 2–3 employees, a small business can gross $300,000–$600,000/year, with net profits of $120k+.
✅ 5. Work in Commercial or Industrial Sectors
Residential jobs pay well. But hospitals, data centers, and factories? They pay $50–$70/hour for skilled plumbers who understand complex systems.
Plumbing vs. Other Trades: Is It Worth It?
Let’s compare plumber salaries to other skilled trades in Australia (2025 data):
Plumber
$85,000–$95,000
+12.7%(Very High)
Electrician
$88,000–$100,000
+10.2%
Carpenter
$78,000–$88,000
+8.5%
HVAC Technician
$75,000–$85,000
+14.1%
Builder (General)
$70,000–$85,000
+6.8%
Source: JobOutlook.gov.au (Australian Government)
Verdict? Plumbing is among the top 3 highest-paying trades with strong future demand. Plus, you don’t need a university degree—just a trade qualification and a license.
How to Become a Plumber in Australia (Step-by-Step)
If you’re thinking of joining the trade, here’s the real roadmap:
Step 1: Complete Year 10 or Equivalent
You don’t need Year 12, but basic math and literacy are essential.
Step 2: Get an Apprenticeship
Apply for a 4-year plumbing apprenticeship through a registered training organization (RTO).
You’ll earn while you learn—starting at ~$18–$22/hour.
Complete 4,000+ hours of on-the-job training.
Step 3: Get Your License
After apprenticeship, apply for a plumbing license via your state’s regulatory body (e.g., NSW Fair Trading, VBA in Victoria).
Pass a written and practical exam.
You’ll need public liability insurance to work legally.
Step 4: Specialize & Grow
Take extra courses: gas fitting, drainage, water efficiency.
Join the Plumbing, Gas and Mechanical Services Association (PGMSA) for networking and job leads.
💬 “I did my apprenticeship in Adelaide. By 25, I was licensed. By 28, I owned my van and my first client was a luxury condo developer. It took grit—but no student debt.” — Lena R., female plumber, Adelaide
FAQ: Your Top Questions About Plumber Salaries in Australia
Q1: Is plumbing a good career in Australia in 2025?
A: Absolutely. With an aging population, new housing developments, and strict water regulations, demand is soaring. The Australian Government lists plumbing as a “Critical Skills Shortage” occupation. Job security is high, and wages are rising faster than inflation.
Q2: Do plumbers make more than electricians?
A: On average, electricians earn slightly more—by about $5,000–$10,000 annually. But plumbers often have lower startup costs and more emergency work, which can close the gap—or even flip it in favor of plumbers, especially in regional areas.
Q3: Can women make good money as plumbers in Australia?
A: Yes. While still a male-dominated field, more women are entering plumbing—and they’re paid the same by law. Female plumbers often report higher client trust (especially for home visits) and are increasingly hired by real estate firms for pre-sale inspections. Some companies even offer female-only plumbing teams for safety and comfort.
Q4: How many hours do plumbers work per week?
A: Standard hours are 38–45/week. But most plumbers work 50–60 hours, especially during peak seasons (summer for leaks, winter for heating). Emergency call-outs often mean weekends and holidays. But the overtime pay? It’s worth it—often time-and-a-half or double time.
Q5: Is plumbing physically demanding?
A: Very. You’ll lift heavy pipes, work in tight crawl spaces, stand for hours, and deal with dirt, water, and sometimes sewage. It’s not a desk job. But if you’re fit and enjoy hands-on work, it’s deeply satisfying—and your body adapts over time.
Q6: What’s the biggest mistake new plumbers make?
A: Undercharging. Many new tradespeople fear losing clients, so they quote too low. The result? Burnout and no profit. Always charge for your time, expertise, and materials. A $500 job that takes 4 hours = $125/hour. That’s excellent. Don’t feel guilty for being paid fairly.
Final Thoughts: Is Plumbing the Right Path for You?
This isn’t just a job—it’s a lucrative, respected, and future-proof career. No student loans. No 5-year degrees. Just hard work, skill, and a willingness to show up—even when it’s raining at 3 a.m.
If you’re tired of unstable gig work, or you want to build something lasting with your hands, plumbing offers more than a paycheck. It offers autonomy, respect, and real financial freedom.
Share This Guide If You Found It Helpful!
Know someone thinking about a career change? Or maybe you’re a parent wondering if plumbing is a good path for your teen? 👉 Share this article on Facebook, LinkedIn, or WhatsApp—it could change someone’s future.
And if you’re ready to take the next step, visit your state’s trade licensing portal today. The pipes won’t fix themselves—and neither will your future.
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