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Trades are booming in Australia — and it’s not just about job security. Many qualified tradespeople are earning salaries that rival (or exceed) their university-educated counterparts. With skills shortages and multi-billion-dollar infrastructure projects in motion, now is the perfect time to step into a high-paying trade career.
University isn’t the only path to success — this guide will cover the highest paying trades in Australia for 2026, salary expectations, the training required, and where to get started.
Why Pursue a Trade in 2026
Australia’s labour market is facing a shortage of qualified tradespeople, especially in construction, civil works, and automotive sectors. The government is investing heavily in infrastructure, housing, and renewable energy — all of which require skilled workers.
Choosing a trade means:
Strong job security
Earning while you learn through an apprenticeship
Opportunities to start your own business
High long-term income potential
According to the National Skills Commission, some trades have projected job growth of over 10% in the next five years.
Top 5 Highest Paying Trades
1. Electrician
Average Salary: $90,000–$110,000+ (licensed)
What They Do: Install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in homes, businesses, and industrial settings.
Pathway: Complete a Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician through an apprenticeship, then gain your electrical licence.
Why It Pays Well: Licensing, high demand, and essential safety skills make this a top-earning trade.
Explore our Electrical Apprenticeships.
2. Plumber
Average Salary: $85,000–$105,000+
What They Do: Install and maintain water systems, drainage, and gas fittings.
Pathway: Complete a Certificate III in Plumbing via apprenticeship, plus gas fitting units if required.
Why It Pays Well: Constant demand across residential, commercial, and infrastructure sectors.
3. Carpenter
Average Salary: $75,000–$95,000+
What They Do: Build and repair wooden structures for homes, offices, and infrastructure projects.
Pathway: Complete a Certificate III in Carpentry through an apprenticeship.
Why It Pays Well: Specialised skills, ability to move into building supervision or run your own business.
Learn about our Carpentry Apprenticeships.
4. Heavy Diesel Mechanic
Average Salary: $80,000–$100,000+
What They Do: Maintain and repair heavy vehicles and machinery used in mining, agriculture, and construction.
Pathway: Complete a Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology via apprenticeship.
Why It Pays Well: Technical expertise and industry-specific demand (especially mining and transport).
View our Automotive Heavy Vehicle Courses.
5. Civil Construction Worker
Average Salary: $75,000–$95,000+
What They Do: Operate machinery and perform works for infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, and tunnels.
Pathway: Start with a Certificate III in Civil Construction Plant Operations. Many employers offer apprenticeships or traineeships.
Why It Pays Well: Large-scale projects often include overtime, allowances, and above-award pay.
Check out our Civil Construction Courses.
Training Pathways to Enter These Trades
Most high-paying trades start with an apprenticeship — combining paid work with training from an RTO like Major Training.
Entry Requirements: Usually Year 10 completion, minimum age 15, and legal right to work in Australia.
Duration: 3–4 years (depending on the trade).
Structure: On-the-job training + formal study.
Major Training offers flexible learning formats, strong employer networks, and hands-on facilities to fast-track your skills.
Career Outlook and Salary Projections
Electricians: Strong demand in residential, commercial, and renewable energy sectors.
Plumbers: Steady demand from housing growth and maintenance work.
Carpenters: Boosted by new housing and renovations.
Heavy Diesel Mechanics: High wages in mining and logistics hubs.
Civil Construction: Significant pipeline of government-funded infrastructure.
With overtime, allowances, and business ownership, some tradespeople exceed $150,000 per year.
Start Your High-Paying Career Today with Major Training
Major Training delivers nationally recognised trade apprenticeships across QLD and NSW. We partner with employers, provide flexible delivery, and offer industry-experienced trainers. With demand for skilled trades at an all-time high, now’s the time to start. Train with Major and open the door to a career with strong income and job security.
