
Carpentry is a skilled trade that has been practised for centuries and continues to be in high demand. In Australia, carpentry is one of the largest industries, with an expected 69,000 job openings over the next five years. With a growing population and a constant need for construction, restoration, and innovation, carpenters are sought-after for their indispensable role in creating and shaping the buildings we work and live in.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Job security | High |
| Demand | High |
| Salary | $55,000 to $71,000 per year |
| Salary growth | Yes |
| Employment growth | 11.7% in the next five years |
| Job opportunities | Diverse |
| Job satisfaction | High |
| Physically demanding | Yes |
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What You'll Learn

Job security
Carpentry is a skilled trade that is in high demand in Australia. The employment growth for carpenters is projected to be 11.7% in the five years leading to 2024, with around 69,000 job openings expected over that period. This demand is driven by a growing population that requires more homes, workplaces, and healthcare facilities, as well as the ongoing restorations and updates that existing buildings need.
The trade is also becoming more diverse, with many women choosing carpentry as a career. Additionally, there has been a carpenter shortage in recent years, making it an even better time to join the trade.
The average income for a carpenter in Australia ranges from $40,000 to $90,000 AUD per year, with the most common annual salary falling between $55,000 and $65,000. However, salaries can increase with more skills, experience, and expertise, and some advanced carpentry positions can pay over $150,000 annually.
Carpentry also offers good job security. Many carpentry jobs require on-site work, which means they cannot be outsourced or automated, making them less susceptible to economic downturns. Additionally, humans are needed to operate the precision instruments and equipment used in carpentry, and these machines cannot solve problems like a person.
With the construction industry booming in Australia, carpentry is a secure and rewarding career choice that offers hands-on work, a steady income, and solid job security.
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Salary and earnings
Carpentry is a highly respected and rewarding profession in Australia, offering numerous opportunities for those skilled in woodworking and construction. The average salary for a carpenter in Australia is $45.63 per hour. The average starting pay for a carpenter's apprentice is about $18 per hour, which can increase to between $18.72 and $25.50 per hour. Apprentice carpenters in Australia earn between $22,665 and $47,012 per year, with an average of $53,670 per year. Entry-level salaries for qualified carpenters begin at $39,000 per year, with an average salary ranging from $40,000 to $90,000 per year. Experienced carpenters can earn up to $92,872 per year, with some sources stating up to $69,118 per year.
There are several factors that influence carpenter salaries in Australia. One key factor is experience and expertise. More experienced carpenters typically earn higher salaries due to their advanced skills and ability to take on complex projects. Specialization is another factor, with certain specializations such as finish carpentry or formwork carpentry commanding higher salaries due to the specialized skills required. Carpenters with additional licenses or certifications may also command higher salaries.
Geographic location also plays a role in carpenter salaries. Urban centers and areas with a high demand for skilled trades often offer higher salaries compared to less densely populated regions. However, skilled carpenters in rural areas may still find lucrative opportunities depending on regional development projects.
It is important to note that some carpenters may be underpaid due to external factors such as working for volume builders with fixed rates, hourly-based work, or competition from unqualified individuals offering cheaper services. However, the high demand for skilled carpenters creates opportunities to negotiate better pay.
With the right training, qualifications, and commitment to upskilling, carpenters in Australia can build a great career and lifestyle. There are also opportunities to increase earnings by advancing to supervisory roles, obtaining additional licenses, or transitioning into business ownership. Some carpentry positions pay exceptionally well, with annual salaries exceeding $150,000, and construction managers with carpentry training earning up to $200,000 per year.
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Demand for carpenters
Carpentry is one of the most in-demand trades in Australia, with the number of jobs increasing from 2000 to 2020. It is also becoming a more diverse trade, with many women choosing carpentry as a career. However, there has been a shortage of carpenters in recent years, making it an even better time to join the trade. According to Australian Government estimates, there are around 150,000 carpenters in Australia, with around 69,000 job openings expected over the next five years. Employment growth for carpenters is projected to be 11.7% in the next five years, with skilled tradespeople being in high demand. The average salary for carpenters in Australia ranges from $55,000 to $71,000 per year, depending on location and level of experience.
The construction industry in Australia relies heavily on carpenters, who are needed in various sectors, including housing, commercial, private, and government. With a growing population, the demand for more houses, workplaces, and healthcare facilities construction is also increasing. Carpenters are also needed for ongoing restorations and updates to existing buildings, as innovative technology changes the types of structures we work and live in.
The woodwork sector in Australia is dynamic, exciting, and fast-paced, with modern carpenters balancing beauty and functionality while creating diverse projects. Carpenters get to use a variety of power tools and have creative freedom in their work, making it a stimulating and rewarding career choice. While carpentry can be physically demanding and may involve working outdoors in inclement weather, the job offers competitive salaries, constant learning opportunities, and solid job security.
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Career opportunities
Carpentry is a good trade in Australia, offering a wide range of career opportunities for those seeking a stimulating and rewarding career path. With a growing demand for skilled tradespeople in the construction industry, carpenters are highly sought-after, leading to numerous well-paying roles and strong job security.
One of the biggest advantages of pursuing carpentry as a career is the diverse range of specialisations available. Carpenters can find employment in various sectors, including residential and commercial construction, with roles in building homes, apartments, shopping centres, hotels, and offices. The job also entails working with power tools and advanced equipment, which can be appealing to those who enjoy hands-on, challenging work.
The earning potential for carpenters in Australia is quite attractive. While the salary varies based on location and experience, the average yearly income ranges from $55,000 to $71,000. Carpenters with specialised skills or several years of experience can expect even higher salaries, making carpentry a financially rewarding career choice.
The trade also offers opportunities for continuous learning and creativity. Carpenters need to stay updated with new techniques and technologies, ensuring their skills remain relevant and in demand. Additionally, carpentry allows for creative freedom, as carpenters often balance beauty and functionality in their work, creating diverse projects that require problem-solving skills.
In terms of career growth, carpentry provides a solid foundation for advancement. With experience, carpenters can move into supervisory or management roles within construction companies or even start their own businesses. The demand for skilled carpenters is expected to increase, ensuring long-term career prospects and stability for those in the trade.
Overall, carpentry in Australia offers numerous career opportunities, from diverse specialisations and well-paying jobs to creative expression and long-term career growth. It is a trade that combines traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques, providing a stimulating and financially rewarding career path for those willing to dedicate themselves to mastering the skill.
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Physical demands of the job
Carpentry can be physically demanding and is considered manual labour. Carpenters need to be physically active for long periods without getting tired or out of breath. They need to be able to stand, walk or run for long periods, and kneel, stoop, crouch or crawl. They must be able to use their hands to handle, control or feel objects, tools or controls, and use their fingers to grasp, move or assemble very small objects. They also need to be able to hold their arm and hand in one position or hold their hand steady while moving their arm.
Carpenters need to be able to move two or more limbs together while remaining in place, and use muscles to lift, push, pull or carry heavy objects. They must be able to see details of objects that are less than a few feet away, and objects or movements that are off to the side while looking forward. They also need to be able to differentiate between colours, shades and brightness, and hear and recognise sounds.
Carpenters need to adjust their body movements or equipment controls to keep pace with speed changes of moving objects, and coordinate the movement of several parts of the body, such as arms and legs, while the body is moving. They also need to use their stomach and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without getting tired.
Carpenters usually work outdoors, where they may be exposed to inclement weather.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, carpentry is a good trade in Australia. It is one of the most in-demand trades, with the number of jobs increasing from 2000 to 2020. The job outlook for carpenters is positive, with an estimated 11.7% employment growth expected in the next five years.
Carpenters in Australia can expect good salaries, with the average pay ranging from $55,000 to $71,000 per year. The job also offers strong job security, and the opportunity to work in a variety of sectors, from housing to commercial.
Carpentry can be physically demanding, and carpenters are usually required to work outdoors, which may involve exposure to bad weather.
To become a carpenter in Australia, you will need a high school diploma or equivalent. You can then enrol in carpentry programs or an apprenticeship program. Relevant high school courses include woodworking, blueprint reading, and drafting.

























