If you’ve ever wondered, “How much does a 1st year apprentice plumber earn in Australia?”, you’re not alone—especially in regional hubs like Warragul, Victoria, where trades are in high demand. Plumbing is a skilled trade that offers solid career progression, practical training, and excellent earning potential—starting from day one.
With Plumber Warragul, we’ll break down the average wages of a first-year apprentice plumber in Australia, explore what influences their pay, and zoom in on what aspiring plumbers in Warragul and the West Gippsland region can expect.
What is a Plumbing Apprenticeship in Australia?
A plumbing apprenticeship in Australia is typically a four-year vocational training program that combines on-the-job learning with classroom education. Apprentices work under licensed plumbers while studying towards a Certificate III in Plumbing—the nationally recognized qualification.
Throughout the apprenticeship, plumbers learn to:
- Install and maintain pipes, fixtures, and drainage systems
- Work with gas fitting, roofing, and sanitary systems
- Read blueprints and comply with Australian building codes
- Follow Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) standards
👉 Apprenticeships are regulated by state training authorities, and wages are governed by the Plumbing and Fire Sprinklers Award [MA000036], set by the Fair Work Commission.
So, How Much Does a 1st Year Apprentice Plumber Earn in Australia?
As of 2025, a first-year plumbing apprentice in Australia earns approximately $22,000 to $30,000 annually, depending on several factors like:
- Age
- Prior qualifications
- Location
- Type of employment (full-time or part-time)
- Union agreements or enterprise bargaining
Hourly Rate:
Most 1st-year apprentices start with a base hourly rate of $13.80 to $17.50 before tax. Those over 21 years old (adult apprentices) can earn closer to $21.00–$24.00 per hour, thanks to adult apprentice wage rates.
💡 Note: These figures are based on national averages and current wage awards under Australian law. Always consult the latest wage tables from Fair Work Australia.
Apprentice Plumbing Wages in Warragul, VIC
Now, let’s talk about Warragul, a fast-growing regional center in Gippsland. Trades and construction jobs are in demand here, making it a great location for apprentices to start their journey.
What Affects Apprentice Pay in Warragul?
While base wages are dictated by national standards, several local and regional factors affect apprentice earnings in Warragul:
- Cost of Living Adjustments: Warragul has a lower cost of living than Melbourne, but many local employers adjust wages slightly to attract workers in regional zones.
- Workload Availability: In growing towns like Warragul, construction and renovation projects offer steady work, which can lead to overtime pay or performance bonuses.
- Union Membership: Some local plumbing companies are aligned with the Plumbing and Pipe Trades Employees Union (PPTEU), which may negotiate better pay and entitlements.
- Employer Agreements: Large builders and council contractors in Baw Baw Shire may offer above-award wages or tool allowances for plumbing apprentices.
Real-World Example:
A 17-year-old apprentice working full-time in Warragul with a small residential plumbing company may start at $14.20/hour, while a 22-year-old adult apprentice working with a commercial contractor might earn closer to $23.00/hour, not including overtime or superannuation.
Additional Benefits First-Year Apprentices Might Receive
Plumbing apprenticeships in Australia aren’t just about wages. Many employers—especially in places like Warragul—offer a suite of benefits to attract and retain talent:
- Tool and uniform allowances
- Paid training days at registered training organizations (RTOs) like Chisholm Institute or TAFE Gippsland
- Travel allowances for regional job sites
- On-site mentoring and career progression
👉 Some employers also offer structured reviews every 6 months, which may lead to wage increases earlier than the annual award increments. For more, visit https://plumberwarragul.com.au/.
How to Find a Plumbing Apprenticeship in Warragul
Starting your apprenticeship journey in Warragul is relatively straightforward. The region has a robust trade training ecosystem, supported by both public institutions and local businesses.
Where to Look:
- TAFE Gippsland – Warragul Campus: Offers pre-apprenticeship plumbing programs
- JobActive and Workforce Australia: National employment platforms that list apprenticeships
- Gippsland Trades and Labour Council: Sometimes posts local apprentice opportunities
- Networking with local plumbing businesses like:
- Gippsland Plumbing Solutions
- M&J Plumbing
- Baw Baw Plumbing Services
💼 Tip: A pre-apprenticeship course in plumbing can significantly improve your employability and give you hands-on skills to hit the ground running.
Progression and Long-Term Earnings
The good news? Apprentice plumber wages increase yearly as you gain skills and responsibilities.
| Year | Average Annual Earnings |
|---|---|
| 1st Year | $22,000 – $30,000 |
| 2nd Year | $28,000 – $38,000 |
| 3rd Year | $35,000 – $45,000 |
| 4th Year | $42,000 – $52,000 |
| Qualified Plumber | $55,000 – $90,000+ |
In Warragul, many qualified plumbers earn well above the national average due to regional housing booms and a shortage of licensed tradespeople.
Final Thoughts: Is a Plumbing Apprenticeship in Warragul Worth It?
Absolutely. If you’re based in or near Warragul, Victoria, and considering a trade, plumbing offers excellent long-term prospects. Even in your first year, you’re gaining valuable skills while earning—something most university students can’t claim.
With a rising demand for infrastructure, real estate development, and regional expansion in West Gippsland, apprentice plumbers in Warragul are well-placed for a rewarding and financially stable career.
FAQs
Q: Do first-year apprentices in Warragul get paid superannuation?
A: Yes. Employers must pay superannuation contributions (10.5%) on top of wages.
Q: Can I negotiate my starting pay as a first-year apprentice?
A: Usually no, but employers in Warragul may offer tool allowances, travel stipends, or overtime that boosts take-home pay.
Q: Are plumbing apprenticeships hard to get into in regional areas like Warragul?
A: Not necessarily—there’s strong demand. Completing a Certificate II pre-apprenticeship can give you an edge.