As Australia enters the second half of the decade, the demand for skilled tradespeople has never been higher. From the cities to regional towns, trades are forming the backbone of economic growth and sustainability. The combination of a nationwide housing push, energy transition targets, and a strong focus on infrastructure is creating a robust job market for those with practical skills and hands-on experience.
While university pathways still play an important role in workforce development, it’s clear that trades are no longer seen as a “second option.” In fact, they are now front and centre of national priorities, offering excellent job security, competitive pay, and the satisfaction of building, fixing, and improving the physical environment Australians live and work in.
Below are the five most in-demand trades across the country right now, based on current trends in employment, government projects, and industry feedback.
1. Electricians
Electricians continue to be in extremely high demand across Australia in 2025. This is largely due to the nation’s push towards electrification and the broader shift away from fossil fuels. With thousands of new homes, commercial buildings, and renewable energy projects under construction, qualified electricians are at the core of the country’s net-zero transition.
Electricians are needed not just for traditional wiring and maintenance, but for cutting-edge work such as:
- Installing solar and battery systems
- Upgrading old infrastructure to meet modern energy standards
- Supporting electric vehicle (EV) charging networks
- Maintaining high-voltage industrial systems and smart home tech
Apprenticeships are widely available, and many electrical companies are offering generous training packages to keep up with demand. With licensing and safety being central to the job, electricians are among the highest-paid tradespeople in the country.
2. Carpenters and Joiners
Australia’s housing shortage is no secret. Governments at both federal and state levels are pouring billions into accelerating the construction of new homes and affordable housing developments. Carpenters and joiners are absolutely essential to this effort.
Whether it’s residential framing, fitting cabinetry, or building formwork for concrete, carpenters are at the centre of every building project. In addition to new housing, the renovation and extension market has also surged, fuelled by low vacancy rates and homeowners upgrading older properties.
From building timber frames to installing decks, walls, staircases, and window fittings, carpenters are enjoying a high level of job security and a wide range of job opportunities – especially those willing to work regionally or on remote projects.
3. Plumbers
The demand for plumbers is skyrocketing due to a perfect storm of factors: population growth, increased development, a need for better water management, and stricter environmental regulations. Plumbers are needed in both new construction and maintenance roles, from installing basic piping systems to working on green infrastructure like greywater recycling and stormwater drainage.
With increasing attention to drought-proofing cities and promoting efficient water use, plumbers with knowledge of sustainable systems are especially sought after. Gas fitting, another subset of plumbing, is still widely required in industrial and commercial settings – although slowly shifting as electrification progresses.
Trade schools and registered training organisations are reporting an uptick in plumbing apprenticeships, but the pipeline of new talent still falls short of what’s needed. This makes plumbing one of the safest career bets over the next decade.
4. HVAC Technicians (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
As energy efficiency becomes a central theme in Australia’s climate strategy, HVAC technicians are playing a crucial role in designing and maintaining smart climate control systems for homes, offices, and industrial buildings.
With extreme weather events becoming more frequent and intense, air conditioning and ventilation are no longer luxuries – they’re essentials. HVAC technicians are needed to install systems in new buildings, service older units, and retrofit existing structures with modern, energy-efficient models.
New laws and building codes now require minimum energy performance standards, meaning HVAC professionals must stay up to date with evolving technologies and environmental requirements. Those who can combine hands-on expertise with digital system knowledge (like smart thermostats or remote diagnostics) are particularly well-positioned.
5. Renewable Energy Technicians
Last but certainly not least are technicians working in renewable energy – one of the fastest-growing job categories in Australia. These include:
- Solar panel and battery storage installers
- Wind turbine technicians
- Electrical grid upgrade teams
- Energy efficiency consultants
The shift toward renewable energy has turned what was once a niche field into a core industry. With projects underway in almost every state – from rooftop solar on homes to massive solar farms in rural regions – the need for skilled labour in this sector is booming.
Additionally, as older energy workers retire or transition to new roles, there’s a gap opening for new entrants to learn and grow in the clean energy space. Many of these roles also cross over with electrical and construction trades, making them ideal for those who want to branch out or specialise.
A Bright Future for Trades
The perception of trades has evolved significantly in recent years. Once considered a backup option for those not pursuing university, they are now seen as dynamic, lucrative, and essential career paths. Trades offer a practical way to build a long-term future with strong earning potential, especially in sectors aligned with infrastructure and clean energy.
For school leavers, career changers, or anyone looking for a hands-on role that makes a visible difference, now is the perfect time to get involved. With Australia continuing to grow, adapt, and innovate, the need for skilled tradespeople will only increase.
The tools are in your hands – and so is the future.
