Are you looking for a well-paid career that offers flexibility, diversity, and a steady income? If so, a career as a plumber may be right up your street. Working as a plumber is enjoyable, flexible, and no two days are the same.
In this post, we’ll discuss why you should become a plumber and how to get started in business. Continue reading to discover the things you need to think about if you want to pursue this career path!
1. What does a career in plumbing involve?
Working as a plumber involves much more than just fixing toilets, making house calls, and dealing with drainage. In fact, you may be surprised at how diverse your plumbing options are. You’ll be able to work in a variety of situations as a plumber. In Australia, the most common plumbing jobs are drainage, gas fitting, fire defence, and drought management.
Your passions and qualifications will define what area you choose to specialise in for your plumbing career. Whether you want to design plumbing systems or develop new plumbing technologies, you’ll discover there’s something out there for you.
2. How much does a plumber make on average?
Plumbing is a licensed and regulated trade. As a result, you can progress to master plumber status while also focusing on specific regions. As in many other fields, the more experience and qualifications you have, the higher your compensation will be.
Your income as an apprentice plumber will be on the lower end of the range, but you’ll be earning while learning. An apprentice plumber’s usual salary in Australia ranges from around $23,000 to $55,0000.
Once you’ve completed your apprenticeship and are registered or licensed with the VBA, you can start receiving a qualified plumber salary. The company you work for and the classes you specialise in will directly affect how much money you make.
The average competent plumber can earn up to $85,000 per year. In fact, some of Australia’s highest-qualified plumbers earn over $180,000 per year, making it one of the highest-paid trade professions.
3. Is plumbing a financially rewarding career in Australia?
Plumbers are in high demand, and the demand levels are not anticipated to change anytime soon. Plumbers with the necessary qualifications and experience will always be in demand, just as they will be for many other trades in the building and construction industry. So, if you’re looking for stable work, this is a fantastic option to think about.
Plumbing may also be a highly satisfying profession. You’re always solving complex problems with your hands, travelling from job site to job site, and meeting new people. There are multiple paths to take and opportunities to improve with so many different classes to work in.
4. Is it feasible for me to open my own plumbing business?
Once you’ve completed your plumber training, you’ll be able to start your own business. Depending on the classes you’re licensed in, there are a variety of methods by which you can carve yourself a niche in the industry.
When you operate your own business, you have the freedom to work with a variety of clients. One week you may be performing community callouts, and the next week you may be contributing to the construction of a new state-of-the-art building. Next week, you might be working as a subcontractor for a large construction company on an exciting new project.
You must be highly motivated to be successful in plumbing. Starting a business is challenging and establishing a client base and turning a profit can take a long time. The rewards, however, are well worth the work if you have the right motivation and experience.
How to start a plumbing career
Your plumbing career will begin with an apprenticeship under a recognised professional and a classroom-based curriculum such as a Certificate III in Plumbing, regardless of the path you take.
You can follow up with additional building and construction courses after completing your apprenticeship, such as the Certificate IV in Plumbing Services (Plumber). This certificate will provide you with the knowledge and abilities to become a certified plumber and work independently in any of the classes.
When you combine your on-the-job experience with your qualifications, you’ll have more opportunities to progress, change careers, and earn more money.
Get your insurance for plumbers* sorted quicker than a flush with BizCover. While you’re busy laying the groundwork for your new business, let us do the shopping around for you, saving you time when it comes to comparing your business insurance options. Go online or give us a call on 1300 920 864 to see how we can help protect your plumbing business.
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