The highest paying trades in Australia and how to get one

Ever wondered how much more money you could make if you had a trades licence?

If you’re interested in progressing your career in the trades industry, you may be wondering if it’s worth formalising your skills to get a trades licence.

Generally, tradie salaries are significantly higher than unskilled professions however individual salaries can vary depending on a range of factors, including:

experience
location
industry
type of trade.

Getting a trade licence can help you increase your earning potential and job security within your chosen trade. Let’s take a closer look at the average salaries for different trades jobs in Australia.

Leading industry labour hire company, Fast Labour Hire, says the national average tradie salary in Australia is a whopping $30,000 more per year than the average income in Australia.

If you’re wondering how much you can make starting out as a tradie, take a look at the average employee salary per trade occupation, according to the Australian Government’s Labour Marketing Insights:

Position	Trade Occupation	Average Employee Salary
1	Construction Managers	$180,000
2	Electricians	$110,000
3	Metal Fitters & Machinists	$110,000
4	Welders	$91,000
5	Carpenters	$85,000
6	Plumbers	$80,000
7	Joiners	$74,000
8	Stonemasons	$72,000
9	Bricklayers	$72,000
10	Painters	$65,000

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg as far as earning potential goes. As a tradie, you can own your own business or subcontract on big projects. This cuts out the middleman and puts more money into your pocket.

According to small business insurer Upcover, tradie businesses (such as electrical or plumbing services providers) can easily generate between $150,000 and $250,000 per year.

That’s nothing to sneeze at!

How getting a trade licence can help you earn more money and have better job security

Getting a trade licence can make a significant difference in a tradie’s income and job security.

A trade licence ensures that a person who practises a profession is fully qualified to efficiently and safely conduct business.

Furthermore, licensed tradespeople are often better protected legally than unlicensed ones. If a job goes wrong, a licensed tradesperson is more likely to be protected by insurance and licensing boards. This can give both the tradesperson and the client peace of mind, and help establish a good reputation for the tradesperson.

Having a trade licence means that you can legally take on bigger jobs and potentially even start your own business. As a licensed tradesperson, you can work as a contractor, take on larger projects, and charge higher fees for your work. This can lead to greater job satisfaction, financial stability, and control over your own career.

How Skills Certified can help skilled tradies get formal recognition for their skills

At Skills Certified we do all the heaving lifting to help skilled tradies get the recognition they deserve. Our RPL process allows you to gain a nationally recognised qualification through our partner RTOs based on your existing skills and experience, without the need to take time off work.

This means you can work towards achieving a formal qualification and unlocking more opportunities for career advancement and higher pay.

How we make RPL simple and easy:

We discuss your skills to understand your situation
We help you put together a portfolio of evidence to demonstrate your existing skills and knowledge.
We match you with a Registered Training Organisation who will certify your skills and provide you with a nationally recognised qualification if you’re deemed competent.

So why not take the first step towards advancing your career and increasing your earning potential? Take our free 60-second skills test and get started.

FAQ'S

Why is it important to get a trades licence?

Getting a trades licence is crucial because it not only validates your skills and knowledge in your trade but also increases your credibility and employability in the industry. A licence can also provide access to better job opportunities, higher salaries, and improved job security.

What happens if I work without a trades licence?

Working without a trades licence is illegal in most jurisdictions and can lead to penalties, fines, and even legal action. Without a licence, you may only be able to work as a labourer or trades assistant, limiting your career prospects and earning potential.

How do I get a trades licence?

The requirements for getting a trades licence vary depending on the jurisdiction and the trade. Typically, you will need to complete an apprenticeship or trade program, gain a certain amount of work experience, and pass a licensing exam or assessment. Some trades may also require ongoing training and professional development.

What are the benefits of getting a trades licence?

Getting a trades licence can bring many benefits, including higher salaries, better job security, increased employability, and access to more job opportunities. A licence also demonstrates your commitment to your trade and your professionalism, which can help you stand out from other candidates in the job market.