Become a Plumber in Tasmania
Build a career that's practical, rewarding and always in demand.
Whether you're leaving school, considering a career change or exploring your options, plumbing offers the opportunity to earn while you learn, develop valuable practical skills and enjoy a career with excellent long-term prospects.
Plumbers play a vital role in protecting public health and supporting communities by installing and maintaining safe drinking water, drainage, gas and roofing systems. They work in homes, schools, hospitals, commercial buildings and major infrastructure projects across Tasmania.
With strong industry demand and opportunities to specialise or run your own business, plumbing offers a career that can take you almost anywhere.
Why choose plumbing?
Choosing a trade is a big decision, but plumbing offers a unique combination of practical work, job security and career progression.
Benefits of becoming a plumber
- Earn while you complete your apprenticeship
- No HECS debt
- Strong employment opportunities throughout Tasmania and Australia
- Average qualified salary of around $95,000 (depending on experience and location)
- Work on a wide variety of residential, commercial and industrial projects
- Opportunity to specialise in areas including gas, roofing, drainage or mechanical services
- Pathway to becoming a licensed contractor and running your own business
- Skills that are recognised and valued across Australia
Is plumbing the right career for you?
Successful plumbers come from many different backgrounds, but they often enjoy:
- Working with their hands
- Solving practical problems
- Learning new skills
- Working both indoors and outdoors
- Being active rather than sitting at a desk
- Working as part of a team
- Meeting new people
You don't need to know everything before you start—your apprenticeship is designed to teach you the technical skills you need. Employers are often looking for people with a positive attitude, a willingness to learn and a strong work ethic.
What does a plumber do?
Plumbing is far more diverse than many people realise.
Depending on your employer and area of interest, you could be:
- Installing plumbing systems in new homes
- Working on commercial buildings and large construction projects
- Installing gas appliances and gas pipework
- Working on roofing and rainwater systems
- Installing drainage and sewer systems
- Maintaining plumbing in schools, hospitals and public buildings
- Working on industrial sites and major infrastructure projects
- Installing water-efficient systems and sustainable plumbing solutions
No two days are the same, and many plumbers enjoy the variety that comes with the trade.
Plumbing career pathways
There are several ways to begin your plumbing career.
Option 1 – Certificate II in Plumbing (Pre-apprenticeship)
A pre-apprenticeship is a great way to develop practical skills and demonstrate your commitment to prospective employers.
During the course you'll learn about:
- Workplace safety
- Plumbing hand and power tools
- Reading plans and drawings
- Basic fabrication techniques
- Water, drainage, roofing and gas systems
- Working safely on construction sites
While a pre-apprenticeship is not compulsory, many students find it gives them greater confidence and improves their employment opportunities before beginning an apprenticeship. Certificate II in Plumbing includes work placements with Plumbing businesses and is a great way to meet potential employers and create a positive impression.
TasTAFE Certificate II in Plumbing
Option 2 – Certificate III in Plumbing (Apprenticeship)
To become a qualified plumber, you'll complete a four-year apprenticeship while employed by a plumbing business.
During this time you'll:
- Learn on the job under experienced tradespeople
- Attend block training through TasTAFE
- Build practical skills across a range of plumbing disciplines
- Up to 6 months off your 4 year apprenticeship
- Earn a wage while completing your qualification
Once you successfully complete your apprenticeship, you'll be recognised as a qualified plumber.
TasTAFE Certificate III in Plumbing
Once you have completed your Apprenticeship…
Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services
Many plumbers continue their professional development after qualification by completing a Certificate IV, which supports pathways into contractor licensing, certified licensed supervision or hydraulic services design.
TasTAFE Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to complete a pre-apprenticeship?
No. Many people gain an apprenticeship without completing a pre-apprenticeship. However, a Certificate II can help build your skills, confidence and understanding of the industry before starting work. It can also set you apart from applicants that have not complete a Certificate II.
Do apprentices get paid?
Yes. Plumbing apprentices are employed while they train and earn a wage that generally increases as they progress through their apprenticeship.
How long does it take?
A plumbing apprenticeship typically takes around four years to complete.
Can mature-aged people become plumbers?
Absolutely. Many people successfully change careers and begin plumbing apprenticeships later in life.
Can women become plumbers?
Yes. Plumbing is an increasingly diverse industry and offers rewarding careers for anyone with the right attitude, commitment and willingness to learn.
Do I need Year 12?
Not necessarily. Employers value reliability, practical aptitude, communication skills and a willingness to learn. Completing secondary education can be beneficial, but there are multiple pathways into the industry.
Ready to take the next step?
If you're interested in becoming a plumber, the best place to start is by exploring the training options available through TasTAFE.
Whether you're considering a pre-apprenticeship, looking for information about apprenticeships or exploring a career change, TasTAFE can provide advice on the training pathway that's right for you.
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