Ruqayyah Snyder
Plumbing is a well-paid trade in Australia. According to 2025 data, plumbers in Australia earn an average hourly rate of $46.49 and an annual salary of $81,426. Some sources claim that plumbers earn an average of $110,000 per year, with the most qualified plumbers earning over $180,000 annually. Plumbers in Western Australia earn an average of $47.09 per hour. Earnings for plumbers vary across the country, with major cities like Sydney and Melbourne offering solid wages, while smaller regional areas can offer strong wages relative to the cost of living.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average hourly rate | $46.49 to $47.09 |
| Average annual salary | $81,426 to $110,000 |
| Highest-paying city | Townsville |
| Major cities with solid wages | Sydney and Melbourne |
| Apprentice plumber average salary | $23,000 to $55,000 |
| Most qualified plumbers' salary | Over $180,000 |
| Average salary | $85,000 |
| Number of tradies earning more than $200,000 a year | 1 in 10 |
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What You'll Learn
Plumbers' average salary in Australia
Plumbing is considered one of the highest-paid trade jobs in Australia. Plumbers in Australia make an average of $46.50 per hour, which amounts to an average annual salary of $97,504. An entry-level plumber with 1-3 years of experience can expect to make an average salary of $71,038 per year. On the other hand, senior-level plumbers with 8 or more years of experience earn an average of $119,821 per year. In Western Australia, the average hourly rate for plumbers is $47.09.
It is important to note that these rates can vary depending on factors such as experience, specialization, and location. For example, plumbers who specialize in gas work may charge higher rates than those who work on roofing. Additionally, union plumbers may receive additional benefits and pay for site allowances and danger pay. The overhead costs of running a plumbing business, including truck gas insurance and paperwork, can also impact the earnings of self-employed plumbers.
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Hourly rates for plumbers
Plumbers in Australia can set their own rates, and the hourly rate varies depending on location, the type of work, and the plumber's experience. In Melbourne, the average hourly rate is around $80-$160, while in Sydney, it's $80 to $200. The hourly rate in Western Australia is lower, at $47.09.
On average across Australia, the hourly rate for a plumber is between $80 and $200, with some sources stating rates can go up to $250 an hour. The hourly rate will also depend on the plumber's specialisation and the complexity of the job.
In addition to the hourly rate, there is usually a call-out fee, which covers the plumber's travel, time, and resources. This typically ranges from $60 to $250, and some plumbers may include the first hour of work within the call-out fee. The call-out fee is usually higher for emergency or after-hours services.
Some plumbers may also offer fixed rates for certain jobs, such as unblocking a drain or installing a hot water system, instead of charging by the hour.
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Highest-paying cities for plumbers in Australia
Australia is known for having well-paid plumbing jobs. The average salary for a plumber in Australia is $46.50 per hour, but this varies depending on the city. Here is a list of the highest-paying cities for plumbers in Australia:
Sydney
Sydney is Australia's largest city and the most expensive place to live in the country. Plumbers in Sydney earn an average of $77,758 per year, which is significantly higher than anywhere else in Australia. The high cost of living in Sydney is a factor in the higher wages for plumbers.
Melbourne
Melbourne, the cultural capital of Australia, is the second-largest city with a population of 4.4 million. A journeyman plumber in Melbourne can expect to earn between AU$21 and AU$35 per hour, which is equivalent to US$14-23. The city's many museums and galleries provide ample plumbing work opportunities.
Brisbane
Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, is Australia's third-largest city. The average hourly rate for plumbers in Brisbane is AU$32.70, according to PayScale. However, the pay can range from AU$24.04 to AU$44.37 depending on factors such as the type of plumbing work and whether it is done as an employee or independently.
Adelaide
Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, is one of the most affordable places to live in the country. The average hourly wage for skilled tradespeople like plumbers in Adelaide is AU$32.51. Plumbers who work independently may earn more due to not having overhead costs.
The demand for skilled tradespeople, including plumbers, is increasing nationwide, providing excellent career opportunities and potential for wage growth in these cities.
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Qualifications and experience impact on plumbers' salaries
Plumbing is a well-paid trade in Australia. The average annual salary for plumbers in Australia is between AUD 60,000 and AUD 85,000, while the average hourly rate is around $46.50 to $47.09. However, salaries can vary significantly depending on qualifications and experience.
Qualifications
The type of qualifications a plumber has can impact their salary. For example, plumbers with certifications in specialized areas such as gas work or roof plumbing may be able to command higher rates than those without specialized qualifications.
Experience
Experience also plays a significant role in determining a plumber's salary. Experienced plumbers can earn significantly more than entry-level workers, with skilled workers in commercial, roof, and maintenance roles earning between AUD 80,000 and AUD 120,000 annually. Additionally, plumbers with more experience are often sought after by customers who want those with the best qualifications and experience to offer solutions and satisfy their needs.
Other Factors
Location is another factor that can impact a plumber's salary in Australia. Plumbers in cities like Sydney and Melbourne tend to earn higher wages than those in other parts of the country. The type of work also matters, with some specialized positions, such as maintenance plumbers, earning more than general plumbers.
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Plumbers' salary compared to other trades
Plumbing is considered one of the highest-paid trade jobs in Australia. Plumbers in Australia earn an average of $46.50 per hour, with some reports placing this figure at $47.09 per hour. This translates to an annual salary of around $77,848 to $83,394. However, it is important to note that salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, industry, and experience. For example, plumbers working in Western Australia may earn a higher hourly rate than those in other regions.
When compared to other trade jobs, plumbing stands out for its relatively high earnings potential. One reason attributed to this is the specialised nature of the work and the skill set required. Plumbing work is often considered dirty and physically demanding, which may deter younger generations from pursuing it as a career choice. As a result, there is a perceived shortage of plumbers in Australia, allowing those in the trade to charge higher rates.
It is worth noting that the salary of a plumber can vary depending on their employment structure. Plumbers who work for companies may earn between $30 to $50 per hour, while self-employed plumbers can charge higher rates, typically around $120 per hour. However, self-employed plumbers also incur various overhead costs, such as transportation, insurance, and tool maintenance, which can offset their higher earnings.
Comparatively, other trade jobs in Australia offer varying salary prospects. For example, jobs in the construction industry, which includes trades such as carpentry, concrete work, and steel fixing, have an average annual salary of around $83,394. Trades in the services sector, which may include electrical work and landscaping, have an average annual salary of $77,848. Meanwhile, trade jobs in the government and defence sectors offer salaries of approximately $65,376.
It is important to consider that salary should not be the sole factor when choosing a trade. Each trade has its unique challenges, opportunities, and job satisfaction factors. Additionally, salary trends can fluctuate over time, and it is essential to stay informed about the current market rates and conditions.
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Frequently asked questions
Plumbers in Australia earn an average of $46.49 per hour, which amounts to an annual salary of $81,426. However, some sources state that the average salary is upwards of $85,000, with the most qualified plumbers earning over $180,000 a year.
A plumber's salary in Australia can be influenced by various factors, including their level of experience and qualifications. Whether they are licensed can also make a significant difference in their earnings. The city or region they work in can also impact their earnings, with higher wages in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, and relatively strong wages in smaller regional areas where demand is high.
Yes, plumbing is considered one of the highest-paid trades in Australia. According to the 2020 Tradie Rich List, plumbers had an average salary of $110,000, with one in ten Aussie tradies earning more than $200,000 a year.
Aside from the potential for high earnings, plumbing offers a range of other benefits. It is a hands-on, stable career choice that is always in demand and offers consistent income opportunities. Plumbers have the flexibility to work independently or join established plumbing businesses, and there are numerous paths for career progression and specialisation.
