Plumber
Install, maintain and repair plumbing, water, drainage and gas systems across homes and construction projects.
What They Do
Plumbers install, maintain and repair the systems that carry water, gas and waste through homes, businesses and other buildings. Their work can include installing pipes and fixtures, diagnosing leaks and blockages, connecting drainage systems and maintaining hot-water and gas systems.
The occupation also includes specialised areas such as general plumbing, gasfitting, drainage, roof plumbing and mechanical-services plumbing. Plumbers work extensively in construction, but many also perform maintenance, renovation and emergency repair work.
Who This Career Suits
Plumbing suits people who enjoy practical, hands-on work and solving problems rather than spending most of their working day behind a desk.
Good plumbers need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail and the ability to work safely and independently. Communication is also important because plumbers regularly deal directly with customers, builders and other tradespeople.
Key Skills
Practical Skills, Problem Solving, Technical Skills, Attention to Detail, Mechanical Skills, Communication, Safety Awareness, Physical Fitness
Work Environment
Construction Site, Indoor, Outdoor, Physical, Team-Based
Education & Training
The usual Australian pathway is an apprenticeship combining paid workplace training with a plumbing qualification through a registered training organisation such as a TAFE.
Training develops skills in areas such as pipe installation, drainage, water services, fixtures and safe work practices. Licensing and registration requirements vary between Australian states and territories, and some specialised plumbing work requires additional qualifications or endorsements.
Career Changer Pathway
Adults can enter plumbing through an apprenticeship, including mature-age apprenticeships. Previous construction, maintenance or mechanical experience may be useful but is not essential.
Because plumbing is a licensed trade, career changers should expect to complete the required formal training and supervised practical experience rather than entering solely through short courses.
Early Career
Apprentice plumbers work alongside qualified tradespeople while developing practical skills in installation, maintenance, tools, safety and interpreting plans.
After completing their apprenticeship and relevant licensing requirements, plumbers can begin working more independently across residential, commercial or construction projects.
Mid Career
Experienced plumbers may specialise in areas such as gasfitting, drainage, commercial plumbing, mechanical services, maintenance or roof plumbing.
They may supervise apprentices, coordinate work with builders and other trades or take responsibility for larger and more technically complex jobs.
Senior / Veteran Career
Experienced plumbers can progress into supervisory roles, estimating, project coordination or construction management.
Others establish their own plumbing business, employ apprentices and tradespeople and build a customer base across residential, commercial or specialist plumbing services.
Salary Guide
Early Career
65000
Mid Career
95000
Senior / Veteran
125000
Indicative annual salary (AUD)
Indicative annual salary (AUD)
Indicative annual salary (AUD)
Salary data source:
Jobs and Skills Australia / ABS
Salary data source URL:
Date :
2 October 2026 at 12:00:00 am
Career Outlook
Plumbing remains a substantial skilled trade in Australia, with approximately 107,600 people employed in the occupation according to JSA's February 2026 ANZSCO data. Construction is the occupation's principal industry. Jobs and Skills Australia
Demand is supported by ongoing construction, renovation, maintenance and infrastructure activity, while plumbing work must also meet regulatory and licensing requirements. JSA is currently transitioning its occupation statistics from ANZSCO to OSCA, with expanded OSCA employment and projection data scheduled for November 2026.
Job Outlook :
Outlook Source :
Strong
Where do I go from here?
Explore Training
Find courses, qualifications and training pathways for this career.
Explore Jobs
See current opportunities and understand what employers are looking for.
Similar Careers
Discover other careers that use similar skills and interests.