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Starting a business

What is a Tradie & How to Become One

Tradespeople (or ‘tradies’) play an essential role in Australian society – contributing to economic growth while helping to support and maintain infrastructure. This career path can offer high levels of professional satisfaction plus multiple opportunities for growth. 

Here, we’ll explain what a tradesperson is and provide examples of common trades. We’ll also discuss the benefits of this career and explain how to become a tradie in Australia.

What is a tradie?


A tradie is a skilled worker trained in a specific trade, such as plumbing, electrical work, carpentry, or mechanics. This type of work involves hands-on expertise and practical problem-solving. Tradies typically undergo formal apprenticeships or vocational training to gain the necessary technical knowledge and certifications for their trade.

What does a tradie do?


Whether it's fixing faulty wiring, addressing plumbing problems or ensuring that machinery works optimally, tradespeople are the skilled workers who contribute to the smooth operation of our everyday lives.

Tradies work across various specialised fields, including: 

  • Plumbing
  • Electrical work
  • Carpentry
  • Mechanical work
  • Welding
  • Refrigeration mechanics

Each trade requires a specialised skill set. For instance, a builder will have expertise in constructing sturdy structures, while a car mechanic needs to be able to troubleshoot complex engine problems. With over 400 trades in Australia, there's a specialisation for every interest and aptitude.

How to become a tradie in Australia


Beginning a career as a tradie offers a structured path to becoming a skilled professional. Whether you're fresh out of school or considering a career change, the rewards of mastering a trade can last a lifetime.


Want to know how to become a tradie? Follow these steps to get started:


Step 1: Choose your trade

The first step is to select a trade that matches your interests, skills, and career goals. In Australia, there are hundreds of trades to choose from, including traditional ones like carpentry and plumbing, as well as more specialised fields like panel beaters and glaziers.


Apprenticeship Support Australia has helpful advice for finding a suitable apprenticeship or traineeship. They also provide mentoring and support


Step 2: Find an employer

Finding an employer who is willing to take on an apprentice will be your next task. Employers can be found through:

  • Online job portals
  • Government programs
  • TAFE institutions
  • Direct approach – i.e. calling, emailing, or visiting the employer in person

You can also find apprenticeships through other government programs such as: 


Step 3: Register as an apprentice


To kickstart your formal training journey, register yourself as an apprentice through the Australian government's apprenticeships platform. You will need to provide information about yourself, your chosen trade, and your employer.


Step 4: Complete your apprenticeship

Completion of an apprenticeship usually requires a combination of on-the-job training (provided by your employer) and classroom learning (provided by a Registered Training Organisation). The length of the apprenticeship will vary depending on the trade – most typically range from between one and four years. 


Step 5: Obtain your trade qualification


Once you have successfully completed your apprenticeship program, you’ll need to undergo a trade qualification examination that assesses both your theoretical knowledge and practical aptitudes. Once you successfully finish, you'll be awarded a qualification that is recognised throughout Australia. This will open up opportunities for your career as a skilled tradesperson.


Step 6: Keep growing your skills

Obtaining your trade qualification is just the beginning. It's important to stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and advanced techniques by attending workshops, seminars, and continuous training programs.

Following these steps will set you on the right path towards becoming a skilled tradesperson.

What are the benefits of being a Tradie?

Tradies often find great satisfaction in seeing the tangible outcomes of their hard work, whether it's a flawlessly completed construction project or the restoration of a public facility.

Many tradies enjoy working independently and in managerial roles. Some leverage their experience to establish their own businesses, creating opportunities to build teams, manage larger projects, and increase their earning potential. Becoming a tradie in Australia can offer more than just a job – it's a career with genuine entrepreneurial potential.

How QuickBooks Online helps Tradies Succeed

In today's professional world, technology plays an important role in improving the way people run their businesses. With so many tradespeople choosing to become sole proprietors or business owners, QuickBooks Online is a valuable tool.


Quickbooks Online offers streamlined bookkeeping and accounting solutions specifically designed for businesses in the trades industry. By providing features that simplify invoicing, expense tracking and financial reporting, QuickBooks Online empowers tradespeople to focus on their core strengths while easily managing their accounting.

Sign up for QuickBooks Online today

If you're a tradesperson looking for reliable and easy-to-use accounting software, QuickBooks Online is a smart choice. By signing up today with a free 30-day trial, you can enjoy the advantages of efficient accounting – giving you more time to focus on delivering exceptional craftsmanship.

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