And there are plenty in Australia. The plumbing services industry is a huge part of this country and is vital to our economy.

So, whether you want to become a plumber, or are generally interested in the trade, here we take a look into the plumbing services industry in Australia and let you know all you need to.

What Is the Plumbing Services Industry?

By definition the plumbing services industry consists of contractors that provide plumbing or drainage services including installing and repairing water supply, sewer lines, septic tanks, drainage and gas systems. What is not included in the industry is the construction of large-scale sewerage or stormwater drainage systems.

Industry Products and Services include:

  • Water plumbing
  • Sanitary plumbing
  • Mechanical plumbing
  • Gas fitting
  • Drainage and roofing plumbing

Industry Activities include:

  • Drain construction, cleaning and repair (except large-scale sewerage and stormwater drainage systems)
  • Gas plumbing installation and repair
  • Installed plumbing repair
  • Guttering and roof installation and repair
  • Septic tank installation and repair
  • Solar hot-water system installation and repair
  • Hot-water system installation and repair
  • Plumbing (except marine) installation and repair

Plumbing Services Industry Statistics

Market Size: $18bn

Number of Businesses: 27,300

Industry Employment: 65,300

These statistics were recorded in June 2020. There may be some change due to COVID-19.

Plumbing Services Industry Trends

In the period 2015-2020, the average growth of the industry was 1.3% and was predicted to continue on an upward trend before the pandemic hit Australia. However, looking at the last five years, it is apparent that the industry plays an integral role in the economy, and the performance has been underpinned by generally favourable demand for plumbing installation services.

The majority of industry participants are small-scale contracting firms that employ fewer than 20 people and contest narrow geographic areas or niche markets. In addition, the plumbing services industry includes several large-scale facilities management companies, along with some franchise groups.

Predictions forecast for 2020-2025 will be shaped by the COVID-19 pandemic as the demand for plumbing installation work falls in the housing and non-residential building market. It is quite hard to say what is next for the industry, there is stimulus anticipated from investment in several key infrastructure markets, but this will likely be outweighed by slumping demand from the non-residential building market, as mentioned.

Want to Get Certified?

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