Thinking about becoming a plumber in Australia—or maybe you’re already one and wondering if you’re earning fairly? You’re not alone. “How much does a plumber make in Australia?” is one of the most searched questions among trade career seekers, especially as skilled labor demand grows nationwide. Whether you’re weighing career options or planning your next career move, understanding real earning potential—factoring in experience, location, and specialization—is essential. Let’s dive into the latest, data-backed insights.
What Is the Average Plumber Salary in Australia in 2025?
According to the Australian Government’s Job Outlook and data from Seek and Indeed (as of mid-2025), the average annual salary for a plumber in Australia is approximately AUD $75,000–$95,000.
However, this is just the baseline. Earnings can swing significantly based on:
- Years of experience
- Geographic location
- Employment type (employee vs. self-employed)
- Specialization (e.g., gas fitting, drainage, or emergency plumbing)
For example:
- Entry-level plumbers (0–2 years): $55,000–$70,000
- Mid-career plumbers (3–7 years): $70,000–$95,000
- Senior or master plumbers: $95,000–$130,000+
- Self-employed plumbers/business owners: Often exceed $120,000, with top earners clearing $180,000+
💡 Tip: Many plumbers in high-demand areas like Sydney, Brisbane, or Perth earn premium rates for after-hours or emergency callouts—sometimes charging $150–$250/hour.
How Do Plumber Salaries Vary by State or Territory?
Plumbing wages differ across Australia due to cost of living, housing demand, and local economic conditions. Here’s a quick comparison:
| New South Wales | $85,000–$110,000 | High demand in Sydney metro; overtime premiums common |
| Victoria | $80,000–$100,000 | Strong construction sector in Melbourne boosts jobs |
| Queensland | $78,000–$98,000 | Rapid population growth = consistent plumbing needs |
| Western Australia | $90,000–$120,000 | Mining and remote work can drive up pay |
| South Australia | $75,000–$92,000 | Steady residential market |
| Tasmania | $70,000–$85,000 | Lower cost of living, but fewer high-end contracts |
| ACT | $82,000–$105,000 | Government projects and urban density help |
| Northern Territory | $95,000–$130,000+ | Remote locations often pay hazard or isolation premiums |
Source: Aggregated from SEEK, Indeed, and Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Labour Force Survey, Q2 2025.
Do Specialized Plumbers Earn More?
Yes—specialization almost always leads to higher income. Here’s how:
- Gas Fitters: Must hold additional certification. Earn 10–20% more than general plumbers.
- Drainage Experts: Handle complex sewer systems—often work on commercial contracts with higher rates.
- Hydraulic Designers: Combine plumbing with engineering; average salary: $100,000–$140,000.
- Emergency/24/7 Plumbers: Charge 1.5x–2x standard hourly rates after hours.
For instance, a licensed plumber in Brisbane who adds gas fitting to their credentials can reasonably expect a $10,000–$20,000 annual income boost.
📌 Fun fact: Australia classifies plumbers under the ANZSCO code 334111 , which includes installation, maintenance, and repair of water, gas, and drainage systems. This official classification helps with visa applications and skill assessments—adding long-term career value.
Employee vs. Self-Employed: Which Pays Better?
| Avg. Income | $75K–$95K | $100K–$180K+ |
| Job Security | High (steady hours) | Variable (depends on marketing & reputation) |
| Benefits | Super, leave, insurance | Must self-fund all benefits |
| Flexibility | Limited | Full control over schedule & clients |
| Startup Cost | None | $10K–$30K (van, tools, insurance, license) |
While self-employment carries more risk, top independent plumbers report net profits over $120,000/year after expenses—especially in growing suburbs or regional hubs with less competition.
🔧 Pro Tip: Start as an employee to build experience and client trust, then transition to contracting once you’ve saved capital and earned full licensing.
How to Become a Licensed Plumber in Australia (Step-by-Step)
If you’re inspired by these earnings and want to enter the trade, here’s how:
- Complete Year 10 (or equivalent) – Minimum education requirement.
- Enroll in a Certificate III in Plumbing (CPC32420) – Delivered via TAFE or registered training organizations (RTOs). Takes 3–4 years as part of an apprenticeship.
- Secure a Plumbing Apprenticeship – Combine 38+ hours/week of paid on-the-job training with classroom learning.
- Pass Practical & Theory Assessments – Covering drainage, gas, water regulations, and WHS.
- Apply for a State Plumbing License – Each state has its own licensing body (e.g., VBA in Victoria ).
- Consider Additional Endorsements – Like gas fitting or backflow prevention—to increase earning potential.
You can learn more about the plumbing profession’s structure in Australia on Wikipedia’s overview of plumbing in Australia .
FAQ: How Much Does a Plumber Make in Australia?
Q: Do plumbers in Australia make more than electricians?
A: On average, plumbers and electricians earn similarly—both average $80K–$100K. However, specialized roles (e.g., solar plumbers or data-center electricians) can tip the scale either way.
Q: Is plumbing a good career in Australia in 2025?
A: Yes. With a national skills shortage, aging infrastructure, and constant housing demand, plumbing is a stable, recession-resistant trade with strong income growth potential.
Q: How much do apprentice plumbers earn?
A: First-year apprentices typically earn $20–$25/hour, rising to $28–$35/hour by year 4. Many employers also cover training fees.
Q: Can overseas plumbers work in Australia?
A: Yes—but you’ll need a skills assessment from Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) and a valid work visa. Licensing must be obtained per state.
Q: What’s the highest-paying plumbing job in Australia?
A: Emergency plumbing contractors in remote mining towns often earn the most—some report $200+/hour during crisis callouts or shutdown periods.
Q: Are female plumbers paid the same as male plumbers?
A: Legally, yes. In practice, earnings depend on experience and business acumen—not gender. More women are entering the trade, supported by initiatives like Women in Trades Australia.
Conclusion
So, how much does a plumber make in Australia? Realistically—anywhere from $55,000 to well over $150,000, depending on your path. With strong demand, clear career progression, and opportunities for entrepreneurship, plumbing remains one of Australia’s most financially rewarding skilled trades.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with someone considering a trade career—or tag a future plumber in your life! 💧🔧
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