Licensed plumbers in Australia earn between $80,000 and $115,000 per year in base wages. Overtime, penalties, and drain-laying or gasfitting endorsements regularly push total earnings to $120,000–$150,000+. Self-employed and business-owner plumbers often earn $150,000–$200,000 or more.
Key Takeaways
- First-year apprentice: $17,000–$22,000
- Newly licensed plumber: $75,000–$90,000
- Experienced licensed plumber (3–7 years): $88,000–$112,000
- Plumber with drainer/gasfitter endorsement: $105,000–$135,000
- Self-employed / business owner: $130,000–$200,000+
- Weekend and after-hours call-out rates significantly boost total earnings
Plumber Apprentice Pay by Year
| Year of Apprenticeship | % of Trade Rate | Approx. Annual Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 40–45% | $17,000–$21,000 |
| Year 2 | 55% | $23,000–$27,000 |
| Year 3 | 75% | $31,000–$37,000 |
| Year 4 | 88% | $36,000–$44,000 |
Based on Plumbing and Fire Sprinklers Award 2020 rates. State variations apply.
Licensed Plumber Salary by Experience (2025–26)
| Level | Annual Base Salary |
|---|---|
| Newly licensed (0–2 years) | $75,000–$90,000 |
| Experienced (3–6 years) | $90,000–$112,000 |
| Leading hand / foreman | $112,000–$132,000 |
| Site supervisor | $125,000–$148,000 |
| Project manager (plumbing) | $135,000–$175,000 |
Plumber Pay by State (Mid-Level, Licensed)
| State | Annual Base Salary |
|---|---|
| Western Australia | $100,000–$125,000 |
| Queensland | $93,000–$115,000 |
| New South Wales | $90,000–$112,000 |
| Victoria | $88,000–$110,000 |
| South Australia | $83,000–$105,000 |
| Northern Territory | $95,000–$120,000 + remote allowances |
| Tasmania | $80,000–$100,000 |
Endorsements That Increase Pay
Plumbers can obtain endorsements that qualify them to perform additional work, which generally commands premium rates:
| Endorsement | Pay Premium |
|---|---|
| Gasfitter | +$5,000–$15,000/year |
| Drainer / sanitary plumber | +$3,000–$8,000/year |
| Roofing plumber | +$3,000–$8,000/year |
| Fire protection | +$10,000–$20,000/year |
Fire protection plumbing in particular is in very high demand and short supply.
Self-Employed Plumber Income
| Business Setup | Annual Income (indicative) |
|---|---|
| Sole trader (residential) | $100,000–$160,000 net |
| Sole trader (commercial / new construction) | $120,000–$185,000 net |
| Small business (2–5 employees) | $160,000–$300,000 (business profit) |
Self-employed plumbers must manage their own super, insurance (public liability, tools, vehicle), and GST registration (required above $75,000 turnover).
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do plumbers earn in Australia?
Licensed plumbers earn $80,000–$115,000/year in base wages. With overtime and callout fees, experienced plumbers typically earn $110,000–$150,000 in total. Self-employed plumbers regularly earn $150,000–$200,000+.
Is plumbing a good trade financially in Australia?
Yes. Plumbing is consistently one of the better-paid trade occupations in Australia, with strong demand from residential construction, infrastructure, and the building maintenance sector. Short training time (4-year apprenticeship) relative to professional degrees makes it highly cost-efficient financially.
How long does it take to become a licensed plumber in Australia?
The standard pathway is a 4-year apprenticeship while working, followed by a licensing exam and state registration. Additional endorsements require further training post-licensure.
Do plumbers earn more than teachers in Australia?
Experienced plumbers — particularly self-employed or those with endorsements — often earn as much or more than experienced teachers. Base wages are broadly comparable at mid-career levels ($90,000–$112,000 for plumbers vs $92,000–$103,000 for teachers). The advantage of plumbing is faster progression to self-employment income.
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Salary data sourced from the Plumbing and Fire Sprinklers Award, SEEK Salary Insights, and Master Plumbers Australia salary surveys 2025. Figures are indicative. For financial advice, speak with a licensed financial adviser or contact the Fair Work Ombudsman.