Every trade guide on this site in one place. Pick a trade and jump straight to how to get started, or what you’ll actually get paid as an apprentice.
Not sure what you’ll actually earn? Try the free Apprentice Wage Estimator →
Two general reads worth doing first, whichever trade you’re looking at: Apprentice Wages Explained (how the percentage-of-award-rate system actually works) and Adult Apprentice Pay (21+) if you’re starting later or changing careers.
Construction & building
| Trade | How to become one | Apprentice wages |
|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | Guide | Wages |
| Plumber | Guide | Wages |
| Electrician | Guide | Wages |
| Bricklayer | Guide | Wages |
| Plasterer | Guide | Wages |
| Tiler | Guide | Wages |
| Painter | Guide | Wages |
| Cabinetmaker | Guide | Wages |
| Concreter | Guide | Wages |
| Glazier | Guide | Wages |
| Roof Plumber | Guide | Wages |
| Boilermaker / Welder | Guide | Wages · Welder wages |
| Scaffolder | Guide | Pay |
| Stonemason | Guide | Wages |
| Signwriter | Guide | Wages |
| Sheet Metal Worker | Guide | Wages |
| Gasfitter | Guide | Wages |
Automotive & mechanical
| Trade | How to become one | Apprentice wages |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Mechanic | Guide | Wages |
| Diesel Mechanic | Guide | Wages |
| Auto Electrician | Guide | Wages |
| Fitter and Turner | Guide | Wages |
| Air-Conditioning Mechanic | Guide | Wages |
| Refrigeration Mechanic | Guide | Wages |
Electrical & renewable energy
| Trade | How to become one | Apprentice wages |
|---|---|---|
| Solar Installer | Guide | Wages |
| Data and Comms Cabler | Guide | Wages |
Outdoor & landscaping
| Trade | How to become one | Apprentice wages |
|---|---|---|
| Landscaper | Guide | Wages |
| Arborist | Guide | Wages |
Food & personal services
| Trade | How to become one | Apprentice wages |
|---|---|---|
| Baker | Guide | Wages |
| Butcher | Guide | Wages |
| Hairdresser | Guide | Wages |
| Barber | Guide | Wages |
| Chef & Cook | — | Wages |
Can’t find your trade, or think we’ve missed one? The list keeps growing — check back, or start with the general guide to finding an apprenticeship while you wait.
General information only — not careers or financial advice. Confirm current pay rates with the Fair Work Ombudsman and training requirements with your state training authority.