Tradespeople are among the better-compensated workers in Australia. Licensed tradies typically earn $80,000–$130,000 per year in base wages, with overtime, penalties, and self-employment adding substantially to total earnings. The ongoing construction boom, infrastructure pipeline, and renewable energy transition are keeping demand — and wages — strong.
Key Takeaways
- Most licensed tradies earn $80,000–$130,000/year in base wages
- Self-employed tradies typically earn $120,000–$200,000+ in net income
- The best-paid trades in Australia are electrical, plumbing, and fire protection
- FIFO (fly-in fly-out) trades roles in mining pay $150,000–$250,000+ all-inclusive
- Apprentice wages start at approximately $17,000–$22,000 (Year 1) and reach $36,000–$44,000 by Year 4
- Penalty rates for weekends, after-hours, and public holidays add significantly to total pay
Average Tradie Salary by Trade (2025–26)
| Trade | Licensed Employee Base | Self-Employed / FIFO |
|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $85,000–$120,000 | $120,000–$200,000+ |
| Plumber | $80,000–$115,000 | $120,000–$200,000+ |
| Fire protection plumber | $95,000–$135,000 | $140,000–$220,000+ |
| Refrigeration / air conditioning (HVAC) | $85,000–$120,000 | $120,000–$190,000+ |
| Gasfitter | $85,000–$115,000 | $115,000–$185,000+ |
| Carpenter / joiner | $75,000–$105,000 | $100,000–$165,000+ |
| Bricklayer | $80,000–$110,000 | $110,000–$175,000+ |
| Plasterer | $75,000–$100,000 | $100,000–$160,000+ |
| Concreter | $75,000–$105,000 | $100,000–$165,000+ |
| Boilermaker / welder | $80,000–$115,000 | $115,000–$185,000+ |
| Painter and decorator | $65,000–$90,000 | $85,000–$140,000+ |
| Tiler | $65,000–$95,000 | $90,000–$150,000+ |
| Landscaper | $55,000–$80,000 | $75,000–$130,000+ |
Source: SEEK Salary Insights, Hays Trades & Services Salary Guide 2025, Fair Work Commission awards. Ranges reflect base pay before overtime, penalties, and allowances.
Why Tradies Earn Well in Australia
Several structural factors support strong tradie wages:
- Skills shortage — Australia has chronic skilled trade shortages across all major trades, particularly in electrical, plumbing, and HVAC
- Construction pipeline — $230B+ in infrastructure and defence spending planned over the next decade
- Renewable energy transition — solar, battery storage, and grid infrastructure require large numbers of licensed electricians
- Licensed barrier to entry — licensing requirements limit competition and protect wages
- Award protection — trade awards under Fair Work set minimum rates that are regularly increased
Apprentice Pay: What Tradies Earn While Training
Apprentice wages are set as percentages of the full tradesperson rate. Approximate wages for major trade apprenticeships:
| Year | % of Trade Rate | Weekly Pay (approx.) | Annual (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 40–45% | $333–$420 | $17,000–$22,000 |
| Year 2 | 55% | $460–$520 | $24,000–$27,000 |
| Year 3 | 75% | $625–$712 | $32,500–$37,000 |
| Year 4 | 88% | $733–$840 | $38,000–$44,000 |
Apprentices also receive employer super (11.5%). Some states offer apprenticeship incentives and training supplements — check your state training authority.
FIFO Trades: Mining and Resources Sector
Tradies willing to work FIFO rosters in WA and QLD mining regions earn substantially more:
| FIFO Trade Role | Annual Package (indicative) |
|---|---|
| Licensed electrician (FIFO, 2:1 roster) | $150,000–$190,000 |
| Plumber / mechanical fitter (FIFO) | $140,000–$180,000 |
| Boilermaker / welder (FIFO) | $130,000–$170,000 |
| Instrumentation technician (FIFO) | $150,000–$200,000 |
| Electrical / mechanical supervisor (FIFO) | $180,000–$250,000+ |
FIFO packages include flights, accommodation, and meals on-site. Rosters are typically 2 weeks on / 1 week off or 8 days on / 6 days off, depending on the project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest-paid trade in Australia?
Fire protection plumbers and licensed electricians with high-voltage qualifications are among the highest-paid trades in Australia. FIFO electrical and instrumentation technicians in WA mining earn $150,000–$200,000+ annually.
Do tradies earn more than university graduates in Australia?
Experienced tradies frequently earn as much as or more than many university graduates. A licensed electrician with 5 years’ experience earns $95,000–$115,000, comparable to mid-level accountants or teachers. The advantage of trades is that income is earned 4–5 years earlier (no expensive university fees), and self-employment upside is substantial.
Is it worth becoming a tradie in Australia financially?
Yes — particularly for trades in high demand (electrical, plumbing, HVAC). The combination of shorter training time, no HECS debt, strong award wages, and self-employment income potential makes the trades a compelling financial path.
What do first-year apprentice tradies earn?
First-year apprentices typically earn $17,000–$22,000/year — reflecting that they are learning a trade while working. Wages increase each year of the apprenticeship and jump significantly upon completion and licensing.
Related Guides
- Electrician Salary Australia
- Plumber Salary Australia
- Tradie Tax Deductions Australia
- Salary by Occupation Australia
- Average Salary Australia 2025–26
Salary data sourced from SEEK Salary Insights, Hays Trades Salary Guide 2025, and Fair Work Commission modern awards. Figures are indicative — actual pay varies by employer, location, enterprise agreement, and skill level. For financial advice, speak with a licensed financial adviser or contact the Fair Work Ombudsman.