In Australia, becoming a tradie is an ideal career choice for individuals who enjoy hands-on work and an active lifestyle. It offers practical, tangible skills that are in demand across various sectors, including a variety of industries such as construction, home maintenance, and landscaping.
What is a tradie?
A tradie, short for tradesperson, typically specialises in skilled manual work within various industries. They are highly valued professionals, providing essential services to maintain the functionality and safety of public spaces, workspaces and homes. Working in trade is a highly rewarding career for people who enjoy using their hands and making a difference in the lives of others.
What kinds of industries do tradies work in?
There are a variety of different types of tradies in Australia. Below are some of the most common industries and tradie jobs:
- Building and Construction eg. bricklayers, carpenters, concreters, tilers and plasterers.
- Building Services eg. glaziers, locksmiths, painters, plumbers and gasfitters.
- Mechanical and Engineering eg. electricians, mechanics, welders and boat builders.
- Landscaping and Outdoor Work eg. landscapers, scaffolders and flooring specialists.
- Specialised Trades eg. cabinetmakers, building inspectors, pest controllers and surveyors.
How to become a tradie in Australia
Becoming a tradie is a process that takes some time, but it is ultimately a very rewarding career pathway, regardless of the trade you choose. To get started in trade work, these are the usual steps you need to take.
Choose your trade
There are a heap of different trades to choose from in Australia, requiring different skills and abilities. If you don’t have a clear idea where you’d like to go, spend some time researching the different industries and long-term career pathways, and considering the type of work you would find most satisfying. Each trade offers unique opportunities and challenges, so finding one that matches your passion and strengths can set you on a rewarding career path.
Education
To become a tradie, you need to complete both a formal trade qualification as well as hands-on training in the form of an apprenticeship. This ensures both theoretical and practical knowledge are developed. Trade qualifications are career-oriented, ranging from Certificate I to Advanced Diplomas. These courses can be completed through TAFE or a Registered Training Organisation (RTO).
Aspiring tradies also need to complete an apprenticeship with a registered trade business. In this period they gain hands-on experience working real jobs and receiving mentorship. A tradie apprenticeship can last between one to four years depending on the trade, culminating in a nationally recognised qualification.
Advance your career
Once you have completed your apprenticeship and received your qualification, you’re ready to work as a fully certified trade professional. This could involve joining an established company or, in some cases, starting your own business. From there, it’s all about advertising your services and finding the right job opportunities to make a name for yourself and keep building a career.
How much do tradies make?
The salary of a trade professional will vary widely based on a variety of factors, including the age, position and experience of each individual. As you get more experienced, your salary will typically increase to reflect your expertise. Additionally, salaries will vary based on the trade you’re in. As of April 2024, the highest paying trades in Australia by average national salary are:
- HVAC Technicians: $118,032 per year
- Builder: $86,951 per year
- Electrician: $84,216 per year
- Boilermaker: $79,624 per year
- Plumber: $78,406 per year
Why become a tradie?
One of the primary benefits of working in trade is that there is a constant market for work. Skilled tradespeople are always highly valued and in demand. Additionally, trade professionals are often able to set their own hours and choose the projects they work on, giving them a unique flexibility that many career paths don’t offer. Tradies also see the direct results of their labour, with the satisfaction and reward of that often a compelling reason people pursue trade work.
Mira is all for tradies
Once you’re established as a tradie, it’s important to make sure you’ve got all the tools you need to make your career a success. One of the best tools you can get is Mira, a job management platform that streamlines your scheduling, invoicing and client communication. If that wasn’t enough, we also offer a no-obligation free trial so you can feel the advantage for yourself.