Plumber
Plumbers install and maintain plumbing and sewerage systems, as well as gas, ventilation, heating/cooling, and roof drainage.
Enjoy a rewarding career working with your hands
Keep homes and businesses running with a career as a Plumber. From installing and maintaining home plumbing systems, to working with gas, ventilation, and heating/cooling systems, and even working with drainage systems in roofs, a career as a plumber can take you to lots of places. You’ll have specialised skills that make you an in-demand tradesperson—and whether you choose to work for someone else or run your own business, your skills will be valued wherever you go.
Key stats
Plumbers enjoy higher than average salaries, and are in high demand by employers. Here are some key facts and figures about this career path:
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$1,419
Average weekly salary
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44 hrs
Average hours worked per week
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33 yrs
Average age of people in this career
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Multi-region
Jobs available in metro and rural areas
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~96,100
People employed in this industry
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85%
Of employees are full time
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Below average
Unemployment for this industry
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8.9%
Future growth (next five years)
Stats as of April 2024. Source: LabourMarketInsights.gov.au
Core skills of a Plumber
Working as a Plumber, you’ll have specialised skills in the installation, maintenance, and repair of plumbing, drainage, and ventilation systems. Some of the core skills of Plumbers include:
Interpreting blueprints and specifications
Understand and interpret blueprints to determine the placement and requirements of plumbing systems.Installing and connecting a range of essential systems
Use specialised tools to install sanitary plumbing and water supply systems, water-based fire protection, air heating and cooling systems, and mechanical plant services.Repairing and maintaining plumbing, ventilation, and drainage systems
Use test instruments to diagnose and determine the source of plumbing, drainage, and ventilation problems, and repair and replace faulty parts.Working on roofing and drainage systems
Develop and install drainage systems for roofs and gutters.Start here
Certificate II in Plumbing
If you’ve already completed your pre-apprenticeship
Certificate III in Plumbing
Apprenticeship
Once you’ve completed all third year subjects of the Certificate III
Journeyman’s Exam
Once you’ve completed your Journeyman’s Exam
Certificate IV in Plumbing and Service
Complete subjects from the stream you want to specialise in
For more information about studying to become an Plumber, get in touch with one of our Course Coordinators. They'll help you understand your study options and match the right course with your goals.
Why choose GOTAFE?
The skills you’ll use on the job
We work with the local industry to make sure your course covers all the skills you’ll need in the workforce.
The tools of the trade
You’ll learn using up-to-date tools and technology, so you know how to handle yourself on a real job site.
Strong industry connections
Our trainers have strong local connections and often recommend students to potential employers.
Explore more career opportunities
Not sure this is the right career path for you? Explore our other careers and find the right fit for you.