The Most In-Demand Trades in Australia

Trade jobs are the backbone of Australia’s economy, providing opportunities to build a stable, rewarding career while contributing to the nation’s growth. As we move into 2025, the demand for skilled tradespeople is at an all-time high, driven by large-scale infrastructure projects, renewable energy initiatives, and a growing housing market.

If you’re an Australian considering a career in trades, now is the perfect time to start. This guide will walk you through the most in-demand trades, the highest-paying opportunities, and how to get started.

The Increasing Importance of Trade Jobs in Australia

Trade jobs are important for industries such as construction, mining, and renewable energy. Australia's National Skills Commission has highlighted continued shortages in many key occupations. This creates golden opportunities for skilled workers.

Important facts for 2025:

  • Around 50% of advertised business positions remain unfilled due to skills shortages.

  • Regional area Including Western Australia and Queensland. experiencing severe shortages

Government Link: Occupation Shortage List - Jobs and Skills Australia

Why it's important for Australians:

Trade jobs have high job security. Competitive compensation and opportunities to work on impactful projects. With government incentives and training programs available. This makes entering the sector easier than ever. Current skills shortages | Jobs and Skills Australia

The Most In-Demand Trades for 2025

Here’s a list of in-demand trades for 2025 in Australia:

Trade

Why It’s in Demand

Average Salary

Electricians

Essential for residential, commercial, and renewable energy systems.

$90,000/year

Plumbers

Growth in water-saving technologies and eco-friendly systems.

$80,000/year

Carpenters and Joiners

Critical for residential construction and major infrastructure projects.

$75,000/year

HVAC Technicians

Surge in demand for energy-efficient heating and cooling systems.

$85,000/year

Welders and Metal Fabricators

Needed for mining, manufacturing, and construction.

$70,000/year

Bricklayers

Essential for masonry in construction projects.

$80,000/year

Electricians

Vital for both residential and commercial installations and repairs.

$90,000/year

Roofers

Important for residential and commercial roofing jobs, especially in repairs.

$75,000/year

Heavy Vehicle Mechanics

Increasing demand for maintenance of heavy machinery and vehicles.

$80,000/year

Steamfitters

Required for installation and repair of piping systems in various industries.

$78,000/year

Landscape Architects

Growing interest in sustainable landscaping and outdoor design.

$70,000/year

Most In-Demand Trade Jobs in Australia (2025) by State

State/Territory

Top In-Demand Trades

Key Industries Driving Demand

Average Salary Range

New South Wales (NSW)

Electricians, Plumbers, Carpenters, HVAC Technicians

Construction, Urban Development, Energy

$75,000 – $100,000

Victoria (VIC)

Carpenters, Roof Tilers, Welders, Plumbers

Residential Construction, Manufacturing

$70,000 – $95,000

Queensland (QLD)

Plumbers, Electricians, Solar Panel Installers, Painters

Infrastructure, Renewable Energy

$70,000 – $110,000

Western Australia (WA)

Welders, Boilermakers, Mining Technicians

Mining, Fabrication, Heavy Industry

$85,000 – $120,000

South Australia (SA)

Electricians, Refrigeration Mechanics, Painters

Green Energy, Urban Housing

$70,000 – $90,000

Tasmania (TAS)

Carpenters, Roofers, Electricians

Residential Construction, Tourism

$65,000 – $85,000

Northern Territory (NT)

HVAC Technicians, Welders, Plumbers

Mining, Remote Area Infrastructure

$80,000 – $115,000

Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

Electricians, Plumbers, Builders

Government Projects, Commercial Builds

$75,000 – $95,000

Key Highlights:

  • Western Australia is leading the way for mining-related businesses by paying a premium due to remote working conditions.

  • Queensland is seeing an increasing role for solar and renewable energy jobs.

  • New South Wales and Victoria are bastions for residential and commercial construction.

  • The latter region offers high salary opportunities due to its remote nature and greater reliance on infrastructure development.

To learn more about the highest paying trade jobs in australia, check these resources:

Trade Jobs: Easiest vs. Hardest to Enter


Category

Trade

Reasons

Easiest Trades

Painting and Decorating

Requires minimal training; apprenticeships are widely available.


Roof Tiling

Quick to learn and high in demand for residential projects.


Landscaping

Basic skills can be learned quickly; often seasonal work allows for on-the-job training.


General Labor

Entry-level positions that typically require minimal training and offer a good way to start in trades.


Waitstaff

No formal education required; on-the-job training is common; good for building customer service skills.


Delivery Drivers

Low barrier to entry; requires a driver's license and basic vehicle requirements.

Hardest Trades

Electricians

Requires 4+ years of formal training, extensive certifications, and understanding of electrical codes.


Plumbers

Demands both technical skills and knowledge of compliance codes, along with several years of training.


HVAC Technicians

Requires specialized training and certifications for working with complex heating and cooling systems.


Welders

Advanced techniques require skill development and knowledge of safety protocols; certification is often necessary.


Automotive Technicians

Extensive knowledge of various systems and technologies, coupled with prolonged training and certifications.


Heavy Vehicle Mechanics

Requires comprehensive mechanical knowledge, with several years of training and experience on specialized equipment.

How Technology is Shaping Trade Jobs?

New area:

  • Solar Installers: As renewable energy becomes more available The demand for solar panel experts is therefore increasing rapidly.

  • Smart Home Technician: Automation and IoT skills increasingly valuable As homes increasingly integrate smart devices to increase convenience and security.

  • Drone operators: Used to survey and inspect hard-to-reach areas in construction, agriculture, and infrastructure. It requires certification and technology skills...

  • Electric Vehicle (EV) Technicians: The rise of electric vehicles makes specialized training and charging infrastructure important in EV systems.

  • Augmented Reality (AR) Maintenance: Technicians are using AR tools to receive real-time instructions and repairs. which increases accuracy and efficiency

  • Robotics Technicians: As automation increases in manufacturing and construction Therefore, there is a greater need for skilled workers who can maintain and program robots.

  • Cybersecurity Expert for Intelligent Systems: Protecting IoT devices and interconnected systems in homes and businesses from cyberthreats is an emerging field.

Technological advances that boost traditional businesses:

  • 3D modeling and CAD software: Used to design structures and systems. Helps make planning and visualization in construction and architecture more efficient.

  • AI-powered diagnostics: Help technicians quickly identify problems in your HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems. and improve service efficiency

  • Mobile apps for project management: Improve work tracking, communication, and client management. Making the workflow smoother for businesses

  • Heavy Equipment Telecommunications: Enables real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance of machine performance. Reduce downtime and repair costs.

  • Virtual Training and Certification: Online platforms offer more accessible training options. Help employees develop skills remotely

Apprenticeships and Training in 2025

  1. Certificate III in Electrical

Overview: This internship focuses on electrical installation and maintenance. Including residential systems, commercial buildings, and renewable energy systems.

Why it is in demand: The growth of renewable energy and the increasing reliance of homes and businesses on advanced electrical systems has made this an important business…

  1. Certificate III in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration

Overview: Trainees learn to install, maintain, and repair HVAC systems and refrigeration units.

Why it's in demand: With the increasing demand for energy efficient systems and smart home technology. This makes the sector in need of skilled technicians.

  1. Certificate III in Plumbing

Overview: This program teaches skills related to plumbing installation and repair. It focuses on regulatory compliance and sustainable practices.

Why it's in demand: As water-saving technology and eco-friendly systems gain traction, The demand for qualified plumbers continues to increase.

  1. Certificate III in Metal Fabrication

Overview: Trainees learn to work with a variety of metals. This includes welding, cutting, and forming materials for manufacturing and processing.

Why it's in demand: The growth of the construction, mining, and construction industries requires skilled metal fabricators to meet the demand for structural components.

  1. Certificate III in Solar Energy

Overview: This internship will train employees to install, maintain, and troubleshoot solar photovoltaic systems.

Why it's needed: As Australia moves towards renewable energy sources. The demand for qualified solar panel installers is rapidly increasing.

  1. Certificate III in Vehicle Heavy Machinery Technology

Overview: Apprentices learn service and repair of heavy vehicles. and acquire skills in technology and diesel machinery

Why they are in demand: Skilled mechanics are essential in the logistics and logistics sector. To maintain the increasing number of heavy vehicles used in commerce...

  1. Certificate IV in Building Construction

Overview: This program is targeted at new designers and supervisors. It covers project management design principles.

Why is it in demand: With the continuous development of infrastructure and the need for housing. A skilled project manager is therefore essential for successful construction projects.

Gender diversity in trades and skills shortages

Australia's business sector has historically been dominated by men. This is especially true in business-related sectors. Current statistics indicate that only 15% of professional employees are women. This highlights a significant gender imbalance. But efforts to address these differences are gaining momentum. Because various industries face a growing skills shortage that requires a diverse workforce. New Data on Top 20 Occupations in Demand | Ministers' Media Centre 

Current situation

The business sector, which includes carpentry, plumbing and electrical work, is often dominated by men. This perception discourages many women from dreaming of careers in these fields. Even though they have the potential to receive compensation and stable employment. As Australian businesses grapple with skills shortages It is clear that increasing women's participation in these roles is critical to meeting labor demand.

Initiatives that promote gender diversity

  • Women's Business Initiatives: Programs such as the Women’s Business Initiative aim to break down barriers and encourage women to consider careers in business. This initiative provides mentoring, training and networking opportunities specifically designed for women wanting to enter male-dominated fields.

  • Business training program: Vocational training institutes develop programs to attract women. Highlighting success stories of women in business and providing scholarship opportunities to aspiring women entrepreneurs.

  • Industry cooperation: Collaboration between government agencies and businesses to create a more inclusive environment. These partnerships focus on promoting female role models in business through campaigns and initiatives aimed at schools and young women.

  • Flexible working arrangements: Some companies offer flexible working arrangements to accommodate women's specific needs, such as childcare responsibilities. These adjustments make it easier for women to enter the business and advance.

  • Networks and support groups: The organization and support network provide a platform for women in business to connect. share experiences and provide professional advice These communities promote a sense of freedom and empowerment. By encouraging more women to pursue careers in this field.

Benefits of gender diversity in business

  • Improved innovation: A diverse workforce brings different perspectives and ideas. Leads to increased creativity and innovation in problem solving and project execution.

  • Tackling the skills shortage: by encouraging women to enter the trades various industries will be able to better address the current skills shortage problem. This ensures a stronger and more capable workforce.

  • Role models for future generations: Increasing the visibility of women in business helps inspire the next generation. It shows young girls that they can pursue careers and succeed in these fields.

  • Better workplace culture: A diverse workforce cultivates a more inclusive environment. which increases job satisfaction Employee retention rate and overall morale of the company


How to Start Your Trade Career in 2025

  • Choose Your Trade: With caution select a field that best fits your interests and aptitudes. I think about what parts of trades interest you, that’s looking at the most fun in carpentry work or the most practical in plumbing.

  • Find an Apprenticeship: Visit the official government websites to search for the programs in your region and contact trade unions, businesses and vocation centers to know the available apprenticeships.

  • Earn a Certification: Obtain certification by courses such as those given by the Building Institute or any other vocational training centers. It also ensures you get a certification that will increase your chances of getting a job and ensure you have the right skills.

  • Build a Network: Visit trade shows and fairs, workshops and networking parties or events to meet other working people in your chosen field. Networking can give lots of useful information and potential sources of apprenticeship places.

  • Gain Practical Experience: Seek wage employment or casual employment for those individuals in the respective trade. However, internships can still be valuable even if you’re doing them for free, as this is a great way to get practical experience, as well as to update your CV.

  • Create a Strong Resume: Always make sure when submitting an application to highlight skills, qualifications and any previous working experience. It is advisable to ensure that you work on your own resume and cover letter specifically for every vacancy you wish to get hired for in order to increase your chances of making the first impression.

  • Prepare for Interviews: Perform typical job-interview questions about trade and prove your knowledge in the field. Be prepared to talk about why you love the trade and why you are willing to start at a certain level if that is the case.

  • Seek Mentorship: You need to engage with other trades people who can guide, share experiences and recommend the right approach to take in the course of one’s work.

  • Consider Further Education: When you start your career think of attending college or getting a specialized degree in your trade. Effectively there are no strings attached to acquiring additional qualifications; one might improve one’s career and earnings.

  • Embrace Continuous Learning: The trades industry is ever evolving, modifying new technologies and methods are always coming up. Holding on to flexibility and embracing knowledge in your work will prove advantageous in the career in the long run.

Build Your Future with a Trade Career in Australia

Trade jobs in Australia offer more than just a pathway to employment—they present a unique opportunity to contribute to the nation’s growth while enjoying financial stability and personal development. With a strong demand for skilled workers, competitive salaries, and clear pathways to success, now is the perfect time to embark on your journey in the trades.

Whether you're interested in carpentry, plumbing, or renewable energy, Australia is calling for skilled professionals like you to help shape its future. By obtaining the right qualifications, you can unlock a rewarding career that not only provides financial security but also allows you to make a meaningful impact in your community.

Get Certified Today with the Building Institute

Take the first step towards your trade career by enrolling in programs offered by the Building Institute. Here are some of the qualifications you can pursue:

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Don’t wait any longer! Take the first step towards a fulfilling trade career that offers both personal and professional growth. Visit the Building Institute today to explore your options and enroll in a program that suits your aspirations.

FAQ

  1. How long does it take to complete a business internship?

Answer: Most trade apprenticeships last three to four years, combining formal education with on-the-job training.

  1. Are there any government incentives for business training by 2025?

Answer: Yes, the Australian Government offers grants, incentives and subsidies for apprenticeships and training programs to encourage more people to enter the sector...

  1. Can I transition to a business career later?

Answer: The most! Many Australians successfully transition to business careers at different stages of their lives. This is especially true of government-sponsored retraining programs.

  1. What is the outlook for regional business operations in Australia?

Answer: There is a serious skills shortage in the region. This provides income-generating opportunities for merchants interested in working in the mining field. Infrastructure and agriculture.

  1. Can I work overseas with an Australian business qualification?

Answer: Yes, Australian business qualifications are highly regarded around the world. This makes it easy to work in countries like New Zealand, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

  1. Is business activity recession proof?

Answer: Business operations are generally considered recession proof due to the need to maintain infrastructure and services.

  1. What are the benefits of pursuing a trade career?

Answer: 

  • High earning potential

  • Job security

  • Opportunities for self-employment

  • Practical, hands-on work


  1. How can a woman start a business?

Answer: Women can start by exploring programs such as the Women in Trades Apply for Internships. and enrollment in courses such as Certificate III in carpentry or plumbing.

  1. Do I need previous experience to start a business career?

Answer: For many businesses No previous experience required. Apprenticeships provide on-the-job training while you gain a qualification.