Australia is a country that has just experienced a once-in-a-generation property boom, with flow-on effects in the building, construction and household trades industries. Houses were selling like hotcakes, and prices were skyrocketing.
Many Australians were cashing in on the boom, selling their homes for huge profits and buying multiple properties. In addition, investment firms worldwide were pouring money into the Australian market, driving prices even higher.
Getting on the ladder was becoming increasingly difficult for those who didn’t own property. Rents were rising, and competition for scarce rental properties was fierce.
The boom showed no signs of slowing down, and many predicted that prices would continue to rise for years.
Tradespeople went along for the ride.
Blue-collar workers make exceptional money in Australia versus their overseas counterparts, making the country a desirable location to work in trades that might otherwise be avoided in other countries.
Whether they are plumbers, electricians, or construction workers, blue-collar workers are the cornerstone of modern Australia.
Tradespeople are a vital part of Australian culture because they provide essential services that keep the country running. They build houses, fix roads, and provide other vital services that we rely on. Without them, the country would be lost.
So which trades are most important?
Here are the top 10 most sought-after tradesmen, as chosen by the “find a tradie” website ServiceSeeking, complete with details on income, job description, requirements, and other exciting but previously undiscovered trends.
1. Cleaner
Wage range: $30 – $60/hr
A cleaner’s primary responsibilities are to clean and maintain living spaces. Cleaners are hired in abundance in Australia. Their main responsibilities include cleaning, sanitizing, mopping, dusting, polishing, and vacuuming. There are no formal education requirements to become a cleaner.
The cost of a cleaner in 2022 varies greatly. Prices can range from $60 to $450 per hour (for end-of-lease cleans) or $20 to $30 per hour.
2. Gardener
Wage range: $30 – $60/hr
A gardener in Australia is responsible for caring for and maintaining gardens and lawns. They may also be required to provide advice on plant selection and care.
Gardeners typically work regular hours and may be required to work overtime or weekends during busy periods. They may work alone or as part of a team.
Gardening can be physically demanding, so gardeners must be fit and healthy. They also need to know plants well and identify common pests and diseases.
Once again, costs to hire a gardener vary greatly.
3. Builder
Wage range: $75 – $200/hr
A builder is a professional who is responsible for the construction and maintenance of buildings. In Australia, builders are required to have a license to work on construction projects.
Builders typically work on both residential and commercial construction projects. Residential projects may include new construction, additions, and renovations, while commercial projects may include office buildings, retail stores, and warehouses.
Builders ensure that all construction work is completed according to the plans and specifications. They also oversee the work of subcontractors and ensure that the project stays on schedule and within budget.
In addition to their construction responsibilities, builders typically handle their projects’ marketing and sales. This may include working with real estate agents, advertising the property, and showing the property to potential buyers.
If you are considering a career in construction, then becoming a builder is a great option. With a builder license, you will be able to work on a variety of different types of projects. You will also be able to use your skills and knowledge to help market and sell the properties you build.
4. Painter
Wage range: $30 – $60/hr
A house painter is a tradesman who paints the interior and exterior of houses and other buildings. They may also paint other structures, such as fences and gates. A house painter may work for a painting company or be self-employed.
Most house painters in Australia have completed an apprenticeship. House painters usually work regular hours, Monday to Friday. However, some may work weekends and public holidays if they are self-employed or working for a painting company that requires weekend work.
A house painter’s job includes preparing surfaces for painting, mixing paint, applying paint to surfaces, and cleaning up. House painters use various painting equipment, including rollers, brushes, and spray guns. They may also use ladders and scaffolding to reach high areas.
Safety is an integral part of a house painter’s job. When using equipment and chemicals, they must follow Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) guidelines. House painters must also ensure not to damage surfaces or furniture while working.
A house painter typically works on one job at a time. However, they may work on multiple houses or buildings if they are part of a painting company.
5. Carpenter
Wage range: $50 – $100/hr
Carpenters are one of the most in-demand tradespeople in Australia. They are responsible for constructing, installing and repairing wooden structures and fixtures in homes and businesses.
Carpenters typically start their careers as apprentices, working under the supervision of experienced carpenters. Apprenticeship programs typically last for three to four years, during which time apprentices learn the skills and knowledge necessary to become journeyman carpenters.
Once they have completed their apprenticeship, carpenters can find work in various industries, including construction, home renovation and furniture making. They may also choose to specialize in a particular area, such as flooring, cabinetry or roofing.
Carpenters in Australia earn a median annual salary of $65,000. However, experienced carpenters may earn up to $150,000 per year.
6. Plumber
Wage range: $50 – $100/hr
A plumber is a professional who installs and repairs pipes and fixtures in homes and businesses. They may also be involved in installing septic tanks and sewage systems. In Australia, plumbers are required to have a valid trade certificate or diploma in plumbing from a registered training organization. They must also be registered with the relevant state or territory authority.
Plumbers typically undertake a four-year apprenticeship, including on-the-job and off-the-job training. On-the-job training usually takes place in the workplace under the supervision of a qualified plumber. In contrast, Off-the-job training typically occurs at a technical college or training provider.
Once qualified, plumbers can specialize in a particular area of plumbing, such as gasfitting, roof plumbing or solar hot water. They may also choose to work in a particular industry, such as residential, commercial or industrial plumbing.
Plumbers typically work Monday to Friday, although some may work weekends and public holidays. They may also be required to work overtime, particularly during peak periods such as summer and winter.
Plumbers typically earn an hourly rate, which can vary depending on their experience and the type of work they are undertaking.
7. Electrician
Wage range: $100 – $200/hr
Electricians in Australia are involved in installing, maintaining and repairing electrical systems and equipment. They work in a variety of settings, including homes, businesses, factories and construction sites. Electricians must be licensed to work in Australia.
Electricians install, maintain and repair electrical systems and equipment. This can include wiring in new buildings, repairing damaged equipment, and conducting routine maintenance. Electricians also test electrical systems to ensure they are safe and up to code.
Electricians must be licensed in order to work in Australia. In order to obtain a license, electricians must complete an apprenticeship, which typically lasts four years. Electricians must also pass a written exam and a practical exam.
Electricians are in high demand in Australia, due to the large number of new homes and businesses being built. Electricians are also needed to maintain and repair existing electrical systems.
So does it make sense to pursue a career in trades & services?
These are just a few of Australia’s best and most in-demand blue-collar jobs, and demand for these professions is increasing yearly. To know more about manual labor jobs, check websites like ServiceSeeking.com.au.
ServiceSeeking.com.au has helped more than 4 million Australians get their jobs done. More than 200,000 SMEs have signed up to submit bids for jobs. A lot of companies get 100% of their new customers from ServiceSeeking.com.au
