The cost of living is a hot topic at the moment, and you might be wondering if your hard work is paying off. For Australian tradies, how much you can earn or charge depends on the state you live and work in. So, whether you’re asking for a pay rise or choosing a trade career, knowing how each trade’s average hourly rate stacks up across Australia’s states is important.
Are you charging enough for your services? Use our charge-out rate calculator to check.
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2. Average hourly rates between state
- Queensland (QLD)
- Northern Territory (NT)
- Western Australia (WA)
- Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
- South Australia (SA)
- New South Wales (NSW)
- Victoria (VIC)
- Tasmania (TAS)
1. Pay comparisons between trades
So, which trade is raking in the most cash in Australia? To figure out which trade earns the most, we’ve pulled the latest numbers for electricians, HVAC technicians, plumbers, and construction workers.
Note: these numbers are based on personal taxable income.
Electricians: illuminating success
- Average Income: $85,000 to $105,000 AUD
Electricians shine bright up the top, with an average income range of $85,000 to $105,000. The high demand is due to the growth in the construction industry, particularly infrastructure and renewable energy projects, alongside established demand from mining and associated industries.
HVAC technicians: chilling in second place
- Average income: $90,000 to $100,000 AUD
HVAC technicians take in an average ranging from $90,000 to $100,000. A key driver behind the increasing demand for HVAC professionals in Australia is the government's commitment to reducing gas emissions and the rise of smart technologies and AI-driven systems.
Learn what it takes to become a good HVAC technician.
Plumbers: flowing upstream
- Average income: $75,000 to $95,000 AUD
Plumbers make a decent salary in Australia, with an average range of $75,000 to $95,000 AUD. Major construction projects like Melbourne Metro and Perth City Link are driving up the demand for skilled plumbers, as is the increasing need to replace ageing plumbing infrastructure across Australia.
Considering a career as an electrician or plumber? Here’s how the two trades compare.
Construction workers: building the future
- Average income: $60,000 to $75,000
Construction workers hold their ground in fourth spot. But this number should go up as the Australian government plans to invest in a significant number of new homes. Keep in mind, though, that working up the ladder in roles like construction management can lead to much higher salaries.
Read about what’s involved with starting your own construction business.
2. Average hourly rates between states
More than just numbers, these hourly rates are a snapshot of the economic landscape and demand for your skills in each state. Whether you're staying put or contemplating a move, understanding what drives these rates will help you navigate the diverse terrain of the trades.
Are you paying your staff correctly? Here are 6 common payroll mistakes you want to avoid.
Generally, builders and construction workers can expect a similar average hourly rate, regardless of which state you’re working in. Same for HVAC technicians who can earn anywhere between $40-$50 per hour. For plumbers and electricians, the average hourly rate fluctuates significantly from state to state.
Queensland (QLD)
- Plumber: $45-$55 per hour
- Electrician: $45-$50 per hour
- HVAC technician: $40-$45 per hour
- Builder/construction labourer: $30-$40 per hour
Northern Territory (NT)
- Plumber: $40-$50 per hour
- Electrician: $45-$50 per hour
- HVAC technician: $45-$50 per hour
- Builder/construction labourer: $30-$40 per hour
Western Australia (WA)
- Plumber: $45-$50 per hour
- Electrician: $45-$60 per hour
- HVAC technician: $45-$50 per hour
- Builder/construction labourer: $30-$45 per hour
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
- Plumber: $45-$50 per hour
- Electrician: $45-$50 per hour
- HVAC technician: $45-$50 per hour
- Builder/construction labourer: $30-$40 per hour
South Australia (SA)
- Plumber: $35-$45 per hour
- Electrician: $40-$50 per hour
- HVAC technician: $40-$45 per hour
- Builder/construction labourer: $30-$35 per hour
New South Wales (NSW)
- Plumber: $30-$45 per hour
- Electrician: $40-$50 per hour
- HVAC technician: $40-$45 per hour
- Builder/construction labourer: $25-$40 per hour
Victoria (VIC)
- Plumber: $25-$45 per hour
- Electrician: $30-$50 per hour
- HVAC technician: $40-$45 per hour
- Builder/construction labourer: $30-$40 per hour
Tasmania (TAS)
- Plumber: $35-$45 per hour
- Electrician: $45-$50 per hour
- HVAC technician: $45-$50 per hour
- Builder/construction labourer: $30-$40 per hour
3. Nailing down the numbers
If you’re feeling the toolbelt pinch, take time to reflect on whether you’re earning or charging the correct amount for your skills and services. Use our charge-out rate guide to ensure you consider all the contributing factors so your prices remain competitive, but also help to increase your profit margin. Keep hustling, stay informed, and may your hard work always be reflected in your paycheck.
Keep a close eye on your finances. Sign up for a 14-day free trial with Tradify. No credit card required. No commitment. Or visit one of our live demo webinars to see Tradify in action.
