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Explore Highest Paying Apprenticeships in Australia

The right apprenticeship lets you pursue your passion and understand the financial prospects tied to your career path. The average salary in Australia varies based on the industry, your location, and your experience.

Whether you’re searching for high-paying apprenticeships or learning about traineeship wages for adults, understanding salaries can help you make an informed decision and secure a rewarding future.

Learn more about us and how we support apprenticeships and traineeships.

Highest-paying Apprenticeships

Discover a wide range of apprenticeships in Australia with competitive pay and roles that combine practical experience with formal training.

Carpenter Typical Salary $90K

Diesel Mechanic Typical Salary $95K

Plumber Typical Salary $120K

Auto Electrician Typical Salary $145K

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Traineeship Pay Rates

Traineeship wages in Australia depend on factors like age, experience, and the type of traineeship. Pay rates are set by industry awards and agreements, which may change over time. Always check the latest rates on the Fair Work website to ensure you’re receiving the correct pay.

Check the tables below, explore pay rates, and know your earning potential from day one.

Minimum Traineeship Wages for Full-time Trainees

Level I-III Traineeships	Year 10	Year 11	Year 12
School Leaver	$347.10*	$382.20*	$443 – $455.30*
1 year out of school	$382.20*	$443 – $455.30*	$498.80 – $529.90*
2 years out of school	$443 – $455.30*	$498.80 – $529.90*	$557.30 – $616.60*
3 years out of school	$498.80 – $529.90*	$557.30 – $616.60*	$620.70 – $706*
4 years out of school	$557.30 – $616.60*	$620.70 – $706*
5+ years out of school	$620.70 – $706*
Level IV Traineeships	1st Year	2nd Year
Minimum Weekly Wage	$643.90 – $733.40*	$668.20 – $761.80*

*per week

Minimum Traineeship Wages for Part-time Trainees

Level I-III Traineeships	Year 10	Year 11	Year 12
School Leaver	$11.42*	$12.59*	$14.59 – $14.99*
1 year out of school	$12.59*	$14.59 – $14.99*	$16.41 – $17.45*
2 years out of school	$14.59 – $14.99*	$16.41 – $17.45*	$18.33 – $20.28*
3 years out of school	$16.41 – $17.45*	$18.33 – $20.28*	$20.42 – $23.22*
4 years out of school	$18.33 – $20.28*	$20.42 – $23.22*
5+ years out of school	$20.42 – $23.22*
Level IV Traineeships	1st Year	2nd Year
Hourly Wage	$21.19 – $24.11*	$21.99 – $25.06*

*per hour

School Traineeships

School Year	Hourly Wage
Year 11 or lower	$11.42*
Year 12	$12.59*

*per hour

Understanding the Different Types of Apprenticeships and Traineeships

Australia has apprenticeships and traineeships for many industries. You can find traditional trades and emerging fields like IT and health care. Learn more about structured learning and practical skills development to ensure job readiness in your chosen field.

HVAC industry apprentice partnership - 1300apprentice partners with AIRAH to support the next generation of HVAC&R professionals. To join see the free student membership brochure.

The Essential Soft Skills You’ll Learn in Your Apprenticeship - Communication skills, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management that truly boost an individual’s long-term career. Read the Soft skills story.

Myth vs Reality: Debunking Common Misconceptions About Hiring an Apprentice - When hiring an apprentice, you’ll usually hear the same worries come up again and again: “It’s too expensive,” “The paperwork takes forever,” “I won’t have time to supervise,” or “They won’t be productive for months.” And it should not be that way. Hiring an apprentice should be a smart and straightforward way to grow your...

Apprenticeship incentive changes 2026 - From 1 January 2026, apprenticeship incentives are being reshaped. Support increases for priority clean-energy and housing trades, while others reduce.

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FAQs

What is the average salary in Australia?

The typical salary in Australia is approximately $92,000 per year as of 2024. However, this figure varies depending on factors such as industry, job role, experience, and location. For example, roles in mining, IT, and healthcare tend to pay higher-than-average salaries, while entry-level positions in retail or hospitality may fall below the average.

How can I compare salaries across industries?

To compare salaries across industries, start with reliable resources like salary comparison platforms, government publications, or industry-specific reports. You can also contact us for personalised guidance on earning potential and the nuances of different trades or industries.

What careers in Australia pay over $100K annually?

There are several high-paying careers in Australia that offer salaries exceeding $100,000 annually. Professions in fields like engineering, IT, law, and healthcare are well-known for their lucrative pay scales. For instance, software engineers, specialist doctors, and experienced lawyers often earn well above $100K.

Trades such as electrical work, plumbing, and construction management can also reach this level with the right qualifications and experience. Pursuing a high-paying career requires a mix of education, skill development, and industry demand. Choose a path that aligns with your strengths and interests.

How do I negotiate a higher salary?

Negotiating a higher salary starts with thorough preparation.

Research industry benchmarks for your role and location to understand the going rate for your skills and experience.
Highlight your achievements, such as projects you’ve led or goals you’ve surpassed, to demonstrate your value to the company.
Practice confidently articulating your expectations
Be ready to discuss alternative benefits, such as flexible hours or professional development opportunities, if a salary increase isn’t immediately feasible.

Timing is also critical, so aim to negotiate during performance reviews or after significant accomplishments.