Many students want to go to Australia for various purposes, including studies. But you can also take a different route, which is a trade job. These jobs are in high demand in Australia and also pay well. These jobs involve careers in electricians, welders and plumbers. There are some of the highest-paying trade jobs in Australia, where students can earn a good amount and that too, without any fancy degree. This guide is all about understanding the highest-paying trade jobs in Australia and how one can find these jobs. So, let’s explore and build a secure future in these trade jobs.
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Top 5 Highest-Paying Trade Jobs in Australia
Many students want to pursue trade jobs in Australia without any fancy degree. In that case, this guide will be of great help to you. In this section, we will look at the top 5 highest-paying trade jobs in Australia, which offer good pay and great demand globally.
1. Electrician
An electrician is one of the high-demand roles all around the world. Their main responsibility is to install, maintain and repair electrical systems in homes and businesses. As a student in this field, you need to learn wiring, safety protocols and how to work with electrical appliances. This also includes the responsibilities of installing switchboards, cables and repairing electrical malfunctions. With the right certifications, you can earn a good income after your apprenticeship.
| Details | Information |
| Average Salary | AUD 90,000 – AUD 110,000/year |
| Course Duration | 4 years (Apprenticeship + TAFE) |
| Skills Needed | Wiring, safety, and blueprint reading |
| Job Demand | Very high across all regions |
2. Plumber
A Plumber is responsible for installing and fixing water systems, pipes and drainage systems in homes and businesses. This trade career offers good pay and flexibility to start their own business. This job is considered one of the highest-paying trade jobs in Australia, which involves problem-solving and hands-on experience.
| Details | Information |
| Average Salary | AUD 85,000 – AUD 105,000/year |
| Course Duration | 4 years (Apprenticeship + Cert III) |
| Skills Needed | Pipework, blueprints, and customer service |
| Job Demand | High in cities and rural areas |
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3. Construction Manager
A construction manager manages and supervises all operation on development projects from scratch. They ensures that the building projects is completed on time and withing the budget. They are the individuals who are employed by a development company and coordinate with construction workers, architects and suppliers.
A Diesel Mechanic is the person who is responsible for repairing heavy vehicles like trucks, tractors and mining equipment. This trade job is perfect for these students who are interested in engines and mechanical systems. With strong demand for these roles in mining, especially in Western Australia, it is one of the highest-paying trade jobs in Australia.
| Details | Information |
| Average Salary | AUD 175,000 – AUD 195,000/year |
| Course Duration | 3–4 years (Apprenticeship + TAFE or Diploma in Construction) |
| Skills Needed | Leadership, Problem-solving, Time Management, and the ability to read blueprints |
| Job Demand | Strong in the mining, infrastructure, and transport sectors |
4. Boilermaker (Metal Fabricator)
Boilermakers are the specialised people who work with metal to build and repair structures, machinery and tools. This role is in high demand because of its need in construction, mining and shipbuilding. This high-paying trade job is ideal for those who love to work with metal and machines and are okay with a little physical work as well.
| Details | Information |
| Average Salary | AUD 90,000 – AUD 110,000/year |
| Course Duration | 3–4 years (Apprenticeship) |
| Skills Needed | Welding, metal fabrication, blueprint reading |
| Job Demand | Very high ksin mining and shipbuilding regions |
5. Welder
A welder is a person who works with wood and furniture. He/She builds and repairs structures like houses, furniture and frameworks. These specialised individuals are in high demand across residential and commercial purposes, especially on construction sites. With the right skills in measuring, cutting and assembling materials, you can work in this highest-paying trade job in Australia.
| Details | Information |
| Average Salary | AUD 75,000 – AUD 85,000/year |
| Course Duration | 1–2 years (Cert III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade) |
| Skills Needed | Welding techniques, blueprint reading, metal fabrication |
| Job Demand | High in construction, manufacturing, and mining industries |
Qualifications for the Highest-Paying Trade Jobs in Australia
There are certain certifications and qualifications required that help you to start work in these career roles. The right qualification can boost your chances of landing these jobs. Here are the qualifications mentioned for the students to start a trade job.
| Qualification | Details |
| Certificate III/IV | Offered by TAFE or RTOs, these vocational courses cover your trade basics. |
| Apprenticeship | 3–4 years of paid on-the-job training combined with classroom learning. |
| Licensing | Essential for electricians, plumbers, and HVAC techs—varies by state. |
Best Places for Highest-Paying Trade Jobs in Australia
Australia has many cities that offer good pay in trade jobs and also offer a rewarding career. Some of these places are mentioned below that students should consider for a promising career.
| City/Region | Opportunities Available |
| Sydney | HVAC, carpentry, plumbing, electrical |
| Perth | Mining trades: boilermakers, diesel mechanics |
| Brisbane | HVAC, plumbing, and electrician roles |
| Melbourne | Carpentry, refrigeration, HVAC, electrical |
| Regional Australia | Better pay due to a shortage of skilled workers |
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Tips to Land a High-Paying Trade Job in Australia
Trade jobs in Australia are in high demand, and following certain tips can help you land your hand on one of these jobs. To boost your chances, follow the tips below to land a high-paying trade job in Australia:
- Choose an accredited training provider: Enrol yourself in a recognised institution like TAFE (Technical and Further Education) and RTO (Registered Training Organisations). These institution improves the credibility of the employer and help you to get licensed faster.
- Involve in an apprenticeship: Apprenticeship helps you learn skills by working on real-life projects. It also helps you to interact with experienced people who will help you boost your career growth.
- Build a strong resume: Highlight your resume with practical experience. Include details about the real-world project that you have worked on and the responsibilities you had.
- Network with experienced individuals: Connect with people who are already working in this field. These connections can help you find job openings or apprenticeships that will not be available online.
- Focus on Soft skills: Focus on your soft skills such as leadership, time management and communication. These soft skills help to stand apart and boost your career.
Trade jobs in Australia are high-paying and stable career options for students who want to start work without a degree. Many of these job roles offer strong career growth by rewarding them financially. These highest-paying trade jobs in Australia could be your perfect steps towards a fulfilling career.
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FAQs
Boilermakers and electricians usually get paid the most among trades in Australia, earning up to AUD 110,000 yearly, especially when working in mining or remote areas.
Electricians and boilermakers top the list of highest-paying trades. With licensing, experience, and remote work, their salaries can reach over AUD 110,000 per year.
Jobs in mining, senior IT roles, medical specialists, and engineering management can pay AUD 150,000 or more, especially with experience or working in remote or high-risk areas.
Medical professionals like surgeons and anaesthetists earn the highest salaries in Australia, often exceeding AUD 250,000 annually, followed by senior executives and mining engineers.
You usually need a Certificate III or IV, often combined with an apprenticeship (3–4 years). For some trades like electrical and plumbing, licensing is also required to work professionally.
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