Becoming a plumber is a rewarding career with solid demand, especially in Australia. It requires the right type and mix of education, practical experience, and certification. Suppose you’re looking to become a plumber. In that case, you must take several necessary steps to meet the qualifications.
The Path to Becoming a Plumber in Australia
First Requirement: The first step to becoming a licensed or registered plumber is completing an apprenticeship. An apprenticeship program gives you the hands-on experience to master essential plumbing skills. During your time as an apprentice plumber, you’ll work under the supervision of a licensed plumber to gain practical knowledge in:
This on-the-job training provides exposure to different plumbing systems and scenarios, giving you the necessary skills to solve real-world problems. You’ll also learn the theory behind various sewage systems during your training.
Obtain the Necessary Qualifications for Different Types of Plumbers
To become a licensed plumber in Australia, you must obtain specific qualifications. The most common is a Certificate III in Plumbing, which covers the essential skills and knowledge for entry into the field. You may also need to complete a Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services to specialize in or operate a plumbing business.
Common qualifications include:
- Certificate III in Plumbing covers basic plumbing, gas, and draining services.
- Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services: For those who want to take their career further, this certificate allows you to specialize in areas like mechanical services or roof plumbing.
Apply for a Plumbing License
After completing your apprenticeship and obtaining the necessary qualifications, you must apply for a plumbing license. Licensing requirements vary depending on your location. For example, you must apply through the Victorian Building Authority to become a licensed plumber in Victoria. Similarly, plumbers in Western Australia must adhere to the local licensing board’s requirements.
Once licensed, you’ll be legally permitted to issue compliance certificates and perform unsupervised plumbing work.
Gain Experience and Continue Learning
Experience is crucial to success in the plumbing industry. Many plumbers work in residential and commercial settings, handling different plumbing systems. The more work experience you gain, the more skilled you become. Many plumbers continue their education to stay updated on industry changes and new technologies.
As a qualified plumber, you’ll also have the option to specialize in areas like:
- Gas fitting
- Roof plumbing
- Sanitary services
Gaining certifications and experience opens doors for further career growth, such as becoming a plumbing contractor or even a master plumber.
What Service Does a Plumber Do?
Plumbers are responsible for various tasks, including installing, repairing, and maintaining sewage systems. They work to ensure safe water supplies, reliable sewage, and proper gas services. Their work ensures that systems in homes, businesses, and public buildings operate effectively and safely.
Plumbing and Services: Duty of a Plumber
- Install and maintain plumbing systems
- Ensure proper functioning of water and gas supplies
- Repair leaks and blockages
- Install drainage systems
- Comply with safety regulations
What is the Average Salary of a Plumber?
The average salary for a plumber here in Australia varies based on experience and location. On average, plumbers earn between AUD 60,000 to AUD 90,000 per year. Experienced plumbers and those working in specialized fields like gas services tend to earn more. Becoming a fully licensed plumber offers job security and the opportunity for higher pay. To learn more, go to our article about the average salary of a plumber.
Why Pursue a Career in Plumbing: High Demand for Plumbers
The plumbing industry in Australia offers solid job stability and a range of opportunities. With the growing demand for skilled workers, there are plenty of jobs for licensed plumbers in Australia. Plumbing work is varied, allowing you to work across multiple sectors and specializations.
Additionally, plumbing is a career path that offers hands-on, practical work where you can see the immediate results of your efforts. Whether working in residential homes, commercial buildings, or on large infrastructure projects, plumbing is essential to everyday life.
Lightning Bult: Where The Best Plumbers Work
Lightning Bult is a Sydney-based company specializing in electrical, plumbing, air conditioning, and pool heating services for residential and commercial clients. With over 20 years of experience, they provide reliable solutions, including installations, repairs, and maintenance. For those looking to start a career in the plumbing industry, Lightning Bult’s experienced team reflects the importance of hands-on training and professional growth, offering opportunities to work on various systems, from water leaks to complex commercial systems, under the guidance of licensed professionals.
The Locations We Serve:
Key Takeaways
- To become a plumber, you must complete an apprenticeship and obtain a Certificate III in Plumbing.
- You’ll work under the supervision of a licensed plumber during your apprenticeship, gaining essential on-the-job training.
- Obtaining your plumbing license allows you to work independently and allows further career growth.
- The plumbing industry offers strong job security and diverse opportunities across Australia.
Suppose you’re considering a career in plumbing. In that case, it’s a path that provides stability, continuous learning, and a wide range of opportunities. The demand for plumbers across Australia remains high, making it a great time to explore this profession.
