Plumbing Apprenticeships
Plumbing is one of Australia’s most in-demand trades, and a plumbing apprenticeship is the only way to get there. Over four years of paid, hands-on training you will learn to install, maintain and repair water, gas and drainage systems, earning a nationally recognised Certificate III in Plumbing (CPC32420) and setting yourself up for a career that is genuinely recession-proof.
At 1300apprentice, we have been placing apprentices with quality host employers since 1985. We employ you directly, handle your TAFE enrolment, manage your payroll and superannuation, and mentor you from your first day on the tools through to sign-off.
What You Will Learn in a Plumbing Apprenticeship
A plumbing apprenticeship covers far more than fixing taps. Across your four-year training, you will build competency in:
- Water supply systems: installing and connecting mains water, hot water units, and backflow prevention devices
- Drainage and sanitary plumbing: laying waste pipes, installing floor drains, and connecting sewer lines to council infrastructure
- Gas fitting: working with natural gas and LPG appliances, pipework, and compliance testing
- Roofing and stormwater: installing gutters, downpipes, roof flashings, and stormwater drainage
- Mechanical services: working on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in commercial buildings
- Reading plans and specifications: interpreting architectural and hydraulic drawings to set out work accurately
Your training combines on-the-job learning under a licensed plumber with structured TAFE blocks covering plumbing theory, the National Construction Code and WHS requirements.
Who Should Consider a Plumbing Apprenticeship?
Plumbing suits people who enjoy physical, problem-solving work and want a career they can take anywhere in Australia. You might be:
- A school leaver looking for a hands-on career with strong earning potential
- A mature-age worker changing careers into a trade that is always hiring
- A school-based apprentice wanting to start your trade training while finishing Year 11 or 12
- Someone already working as a labourer on construction sites who wants a formal qualification
No prior experience is required. You need to be physically fit, comfortable working outdoors and in confined spaces, and willing to commit to four years of combined work and study.
About the Certificate III in Plumbing (CPC32420)
The Certificate III in Plumbing is the nationally recognised qualification you will earn through your apprenticeship. It is delivered by a registered training organisation (usually TAFE) and covers all the core units you need to apply for your plumbing licence after sign-off.
Core units include water supply, sanitary plumbing, drainage, gas fitting, roofing, and mechanical services. You will also complete elective units based on your employer’s work and your career interests.
Learn more about the qualification on our Certificate III in Plumbing page.
Career Opportunities After Your Apprenticeship
Once you complete your plumbing apprenticeship and obtain your licence, your career options open up significantly:
- Licensed plumber: work for a plumbing contractor or maintenance company across residential, commercial, or industrial projects
- Self-employed contractor: start your own plumbing business once you gain your contractor licence
- Specialisation: move into gas fitting, fire protection, hydraulic design, or mechanical services
- Site supervision: progress into foreman or project management roles on larger builds
- Teaching and assessing: train the next generation of plumbers at a TAFE or registered training organisation
According to Jobs and Skills Australia, nearly half of all trade occupations in Australia remain in shortage, with construction trades among the most persistently in-demand. Plumbing features on the Occupation Shortage List year after year. Qualified plumbers earn competitive wages, with experienced tradespeople and those running their own businesses earning well above the national average.
Industry Snapshot: Plumbing in Australia
Plumbing offers one of the clearest pathways from apprenticeship to licensed trade status, with a structured four-year qualification and mandatory licensing in every state and territory.
- The construction pipeline across NSW, VIC, and QLD means sustained demand for licensed plumbers
- Apprentice completion rates in plumbing are among the highest of any trade
- A licensed plumber can work across residential, commercial, industrial, and civil sectors
How to Start a Plumbing Apprenticeship With 1300apprentice
- Apply online or call 1300 277 736. Tell us about yourself and what you are looking for.
- We match you with a host employer. Our team finds a plumbing employer in your area who needs an apprentice.
- Sign your training contract. 1300apprentice employs you directly and registers your apprenticeship with the relevant state training authority.
- Start earning and learning. You begin paid work on site immediately, with TAFE training scheduled around your work commitments.
- Ongoing support through to sign-off. Your dedicated field officer checks in regularly, resolves any issues, and makes sure you stay on track.
How Long Does a Plumbing Apprenticeship Take?
A plumbing apprenticeship typically takes four years to complete. This includes approximately 48 months of on-the-job training combined with TAFE block releases or day releases, depending on your state and training provider.
Mature-age apprentices or those with relevant prior experience may be eligible for credit transfers that can reduce the overall duration. Your 1300apprentice field officer will help you explore any options for recognition of prior learning (RPL).
How to Find a Plumbing Apprenticeship
Finding a plumbing apprenticeship on your own can be difficult, particularly if you do not have existing trade contacts. That is where a Group Training Organisation like 1300apprentice adds real value. We maintain relationships with plumbing contractors and builders across the country, so we can connect you with an employer who is actively looking for an apprentice.
Browse our current apprenticeship vacancies or register your interest and we will contact you when a suitable position opens up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Get Paid During a Plumbing Apprenticeship?
Yes you get paid as an apprentice. As a 1300apprentice employee, you receive a regular wage from day one. Apprentice wages are set by the relevant industry award and increase each year of your apprenticeship. You also receive superannuation, leave entitlements, and workers’ compensation cover.
What Tools Do I Need for a Plumbing Apprenticeship?
Your host employer will generally supply major tools and equipment for your apprenticeship. As an apprentice, you may be expected to purchase a basic personal tool kit over time. A tool allowance may be included in your award rate to help cover this cost.
Can I Do a Plumbing Apprenticeship as a Mature-Age Worker?
Yes, you can start an apprenticeship if you are over 21. There is no upper age limit for starting a plumbing apprenticeship. Mature-age apprentices bring life experience and work ethic that employers value. Many of our most successful apprentices started their plumbing career in their late 20s, 30s, or beyond.
What Is the Difference Between a Plumber and a Gas Fitter?
Gas fitting is a specialisation within plumbing. Your Certificate III in Plumbing includes gas fitting units, so you will be trained in both. After sign-off, you can choose to focus on gas work or continue as a general plumber covering all disciplines.
Is TAFE Training Free for Plumbing Apprentices?
In most states, apprentices receive subsidised or fee-free TAFE training. NSW offers fee-free apprenticeships under the Smart and Skilled program. Your 1300apprentice field officer will confirm what applies in your state and help with enrolment.
Start Your Plumbing Apprenticeship Today
A plumbing apprenticeship is one of the smartest career moves you can make. You will earn while you learn, gain a nationally recognised qualification, and enter a profession that will always be in demand.
Register Your Interest or call 1300 277 736