Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters are some of the key roles available in the thriving plumbing industry in Australia. The work of plumbers is diverse, involving the installation, maintenance, and repair of various piping systems. Pipefitters, also known as fitters, focus on specialized pipes that transport sensitive materials like natural gas, acids, and chemical compounds, mainly used in industrial facilities, power plants, and gas pipelines. Steamfitters perform similar duties, handling piping that carries steam or other pressurized substances.
Plumbing professionals can work in both residential and commercial settings, and even in new construction projects where they are tasked with installing plumbing systems. Jobs in plumbing are not only about fixing leaks—they involve complex responsibilities like installing new fixtures, irrigation systems, and maintaining sprinkler and toilet systems. Before starting work, plumbers often assess the project’s scope and cost with clients, then source and install necessary parts and materials. They may also inspect buildings to ensure that the plumbing adheres to health and safety standards.
What is the Salary for Plumbing Jobs in Australia?
The average annual salary for plumbers in Australia ranges from AUD 55,000 to AUD 90,000, depending on experience and location. Australia’s increasing demand for skilled plumbers also contributes to job security, making it an attractive option for foreign workers looking for long-term career prospects.
Top 16 High-Paying Plumbing Jobs in Australia
1. Plumbing Engineer
Salary range: $85,000-$107,000 per year
Plumbing engineers design plumbing systems for residential, commercial, and public buildings. They often collaborate with mechanical, civil, or fire protection engineers. They may be responsible for designing potable water, sewage waste, stormwater drainage, and fire suppression systems. They also create design drawings using CAD software to guide construction teams and building management in handling plumbing infrastructure.
2. Plumbing Designer
Salary range: $75,500-$99,000 per year
A plumbing designer is responsible for developing plumbing systems, including household plumbing, fire suppression systems, and municipal drainage networks. Utilizing CAD or Revit software, they bring clients’ visions to life, specifying materials, pipe sizes, installation requirements, and drainage details.
3. Master Plumber
Annual salary range: $61,500-$92,500
Master plumbers have reached the highest level of professional plumbing, progressing from apprentice to journeyman to master. Their responsibilities include installing and maintaining water systems in commercial and residential properties according to regulations. They install water heaters, showers, sinks, and more, while also supervising apprentices and journeymen.
4. Plumbing Service Technician
Annual salary range: $51,500-$74,500
Plumbing service technicians handle maintenance and emergency plumbing services for residential and commercial clients. This role includes routine upkeep and responding to urgent issues like leaky or broken pipes, making it ideal for those who don’t mind being on call.
5. Plumbing Mechanic
Salary range: $50,000-$74,500 per year
Plumbing mechanics focus on maintenance and repair tasks for water systems and fixtures. The job offers consistent pay regardless of experience level, making it a steady career choice for many.
6. Plumbing Inspector
Annual salary range: $52,500-$73,500
A plumbing inspector ensures that various plumbing and drainage systems comply with all relevant codes and regulations. Duties include reviewing blueprints, training building owners on resolving code violations, and performing inspections for proper piping size, connections, and materials.
7. General Plumber
Salary range: $49,500-$72,500 per year
General plumbers install and repair water pipes, drains, and fixtures. They often perform emergency repairs for leaking or broken pipes, and the nature of their work keeps them busy with on-call duties, especially during evenings and weekends.
8. Maintenance Plumber
Salary range: $42,000-$62,500 per year
Maintenance plumbers are employed by large corporations to maintain plumbing systems in large buildings or campuses. Their job involves the upkeep of gas, water, irrigation, and sewer systems used by a large number of people.
9. Drain Technician
Salary range: $42,500-$59,000 per year
Drain technicians specialize in the maintenance and repair of drainage systems, a role in high demand in both residential and commercial settings.
How to Become a Plumber in Australia
Step 1: Participate in an Apprenticeship Program
To start your plumbing career, begin with an apprenticeship. This four-year training program under the supervision of a qualified plumbing professional will give you the skills needed to work independently.
Step 2: Complete a Certification
Most employers prefer candidates with a Certificate III in Plumbing, which provides essential theoretical and practical knowledge. This certification can be obtained from technical universities and training institutions across Australia.
Step 3: Get Registered
After completing your apprenticeship and Certificate III, you can apply for registration, which will allow you to work legally as a plumber in Australia, although you cannot yet issue compliance certificates.
Step 4: Get Licensed
To work independently as a licensed plumber, you need to earn a Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services, which provides advanced skills and knowledge. You must also demonstrate practical skills and pass the licensing exam.
Licenses are granted by regional industry bodies such as:
- Fair Trading in New South Wales
- Plumbing Industry Commission in Victoria
- Department of Infrastructure and Planning in Queensland
TAFE Plumbing Courses and Certifications in Australia
Certificate III in Plumbing
This qualification helps develop the practical skills needed for a plumbing career. TAFE institutions such as TAFE NSW, TAFE QLD, and SouthWest TAFE offer this course.
Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services
This course is available at TAFE NSW, TAFE South Australia, and other accredited institutions across Australia.
Conclusion
Pursuing a plumbing career in Australia can be both rewarding and profitable for foreigners. With various job opportunities, competitive salaries, and potential paths to permanent residency, the plumbing industry is an excellent choice for those looking to build a life in Australia. By following the outlined steps, you’ll be well on your way to launching a successful plumbing career Down Under.
