In Australia, becoming a tradie is a popular career choice for those who prefer hands-on work and practical skills. A tradie is someone who has completed a trade apprenticeship, which involves a combination of on-the-job training and classroom learning. This article will outline the steps you need to take to become a tradie in Australia.
Choose a trade
The first step to becoming a tradie is to choose a trade. There are over 400 trades to choose from in Australia, including carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and bricklaying. It is essential to choose a trade that interests you and aligns with your skills and abilities.
Choosing the right trade for you
Choosing the right trade is an important decision that can have a significant impact on your career and financial future. With so many different trades to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is the best fit for you.
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Evaluate your interests and passions - When choosing a trade, it's important to consider your interests and passions. Do you enjoy working with your hands, solving problems, or working in a specific industry? Consider what excites you and what you enjoy doing in your spare time. If you're passionate about cars, for example, you may want to consider a career in auto mechanics. If you enjoy building things, you may want to consider a career in carpentry or construction.
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Assess your skills and abilities - Your skills and abilities will play a crucial role in determining which trade is the right fit for you. Think about what you're good at and what comes naturally to you. If you have a talent for troubleshooting and problem-solving, you may want to consider a career in electrical or plumbing. If you have strong physical skills, you may want to consider a career in welding or heavy equipment operation.
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Research the job market - Before choosing a trade, it's important to research the job market to ensure that there are job opportunities available in your area. Look for industries that are growing and in demand, as this can increase your chances of finding employment. You can also look at job postings online to get a better sense of the skills and qualifications that employers are looking for.
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Consider the training and education required - Different trades require different levels of education and training. Some trades, like electrical or plumbing, may require an apprenticeship or certification program, while others, like engineering, may require a degree. Consider the time and cost of the education and training required, as well as the availability of programs in your area.
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Think about long-term career goals - When choosing a trade, it's important to think about your long-term career goals. Do you want to eventually start your own business or work in a specific industry? Consider how your chosen trade can help you achieve your goals and what opportunities for advancement are available.
Some trades to consider
Australia has a wide range of tradesmen in various industries. Here is a list of some of different types of tradesmen in Australia:
- Electrician
- Plumber
- Carpenter
- Bricklayer
- Painter
- Welder
- Mechanic
- Heavy equipment operator
- Landscaper
- Roofing specialist
- Flooring specialist
- Cabinetmaker
- Glazier
- Tiler
- Air conditioning technician
- Locksmith
- Fitter and turner
- Sheet metal worker
- Scaffolder
- Concreter
- Stonemason
- Signwriter
- Refrigeration mechanic
- Boat builder
- Upholsterer
- Pest controller
- Building inspector
- Plasterer
- Gasfitter
- Surveyor
These are just a few of the many different types of tradesmen in Australia. Each of these trades has its own set of skills, education requirements, and certifications that are required to work in the industry.
Find an employer
Once you have decided on a trade, you will need to find an employer who is willing to take you on as an apprentice, you can do this on Seek, Indeed, Facebook listings, or by approaching businesses directly. Networking with people in the industry can also be helpful.
Register as an apprentice
Once you have found an employer, you will need to register as an apprentice with the Australian government. You can do this online through the Australian Apprenticeships website. You will need to provide information about yourself, your employer, and your chosen trade. Your employer will often support you in registering as an Apprentice.
Complete your apprenticeship
As an apprentice, you will need to complete a combination of on-the-job training and classroom learning. Your employer will provide the on-the-job training, and you will attend a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) for the classroom learning. The length of your apprenticeship will depend on the trade you have chosen and can range from one to four years.
Get your trade qualification
Once you have completed your apprenticeship, you will need to pass a trade qualification exam. The exam will test your knowledge and practical skills in your chosen trade. If you pass the exam, you will receive a nationally recognised qualification, which will allow you to work as a qualified tradesman.
Continue to develop your skills
Even after you have completed your apprenticeship and obtained your trade qualification, it is essential to continue to develop your skills. The trades industry is constantly evolving, and there are always new techniques and technologies to learn. You can do this by attending workshops, seminars, and training programs.
We can help you on your way to being a tradie with The Tradie Diary specifically tailored to record what you need in your new career.
Becoming a tradesman in Australia requires commitment, hard work, and a passion for practical skills. By choosing a trade, finding an employer, registering as an apprentice, completing your apprenticeship, obtaining your trade qualification, and continuing to develop your skills, you can build a successful career in the trades industry.
