Study Plumbing

Career Outcomes

Plumber (General) (334111): currently on Medium and Long-term Strategic Skill List (MLTSSL)

Industry Overview

The construction industry is a significant driver of economic activity in Australia and is projected to grow by 2.4% in the next 5 years. It employs close to 1.2 million people and has the largest number of small businesses in Australia. Construction workers are employed in both residential and commercial sectors, and are involved in site preparation, building installation and structure services. The majority of workers in the sector are employed as carpenters and joiners, followed by construction managers and plumbers (Source: IBISWorld)

The number of people working as Plumbers (in their main job) stayed about the same over 5 years:

from 79,100 in 2014 to 80,900 in 2019.

Insights

Average weekly earnings:  $1,894 per week

Mode of work: Most work full-time (88%)

Hours per week: full-time workers spend around 44 hours/ week at work.

Age: the average age is 33 years. Many workers are under 25 years.

Gender: 1% workers are female

(Source: Joboutlook.gov.au)

Qualification Needed

Workers usually need a certificate III in plumbing to work as a Plumber. These courses are often completed as part of an apprenticeship.

Course Overview

Plumbers install and repair water supply lines, waste disposal systems, and related appliances and fixtures. Studies in plumbing will teach you how to read plans and calculate plumbing quantities, weld using different equipment, fabricate and install piping, connect irrigation systems, install drainage systems and much more.

Course Requirements

Most institutions require completion of Australian Year 11 or 12 (or equivalent), as well as a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 with no band score less than 5.

Costs

A 2-year packaged trade course costs between $12,000 and $19,000 per year, depending on the institution.

Career Outcomes

Plumber (General)