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Plumber Salary in Melbourne

Trades

Plumbers install and repair water, gas, and drainage systems.

Average Salary
$89,250
per year
Take-Home Pay
$69,902
after tax (no HECS)
Salary Range
$58-126k
$89K
$58K$126K

Job Market Outlook

Low AI Risk

Physical or high-touch work with limited AI automation potential

In Demand

More jobs than qualified candidates in Australia

+12% growth

Moderate projected employment growth over 5 years

Sources: Microsoft Research 2025, Jobs and Skills Australia 2025 Occupation Shortage List

Plumber Take-Home Pay Breakdown in Melbourne

Based on the average Plumber salary of $89,250 in Melbourne, here's what you can expect to take home after tax, Medicare levy, and superannuation.

ComponentWithout HECSWith HECS
Gross Salary$89,250$89,250
Income Tax-$17,563-$17,563
Medicare Levy (2%)-$1,785-$1,785
HELP/HECS Repayment$0-$3,124
Superannuation (11%)+$9,818+$9,818
Annual Take-Home$69,902$66,779
Monthly Take-Home$5,825$5,565
Fortnightly Take-Home$2,689$2,568

Calculate Your Exact Take-Home Pay

Enter your actual salary to see a personalized breakdown including your specific tax situation, HECS debt, and family status.

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Your salary
$89,000
Take-home$69,902
Tax-$17,563
Super+$9,818

How to Become a Plumber

Everything you need to know about breaking into a career as a Plumber in Victoria.

Qualifications Required

Essential Requirements
  • Certificate III in Plumbing (apprenticeship completion)
  • Plumbing license from state/territory authority
  • Current White Card (construction induction)
Preferred Qualifications
  • Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services
  • Gas fitting license
  • Backflow prevention certification
Relevant Certifications
Restricted Electrical LicenseGas fitting certificationFire services certification

Career Progression

Salary Growth Trajectory
$45KEntry$89KMid$107KSenior$134KLead
Entry Level

Plumbing Apprentice

$44,625
estimated in Melbourne
0-4 years
Mid Level

Licensed Plumber

$89,250
estimated in Melbourne
4-8 years
Senior Level

Lead Plumber

$107,100
estimated in Melbourne
8-15 years
Leadership

Plumbing Contractor / Business Owner

$133,875
estimated in Melbourne
10+ years

Skills in Demand

Gas fittingSolar hot water installationBathroom renovationCommercial plumbingFire sprinkler systems

Tips for Breaking In

  1. 1Start an apprenticeship through a group training organization
  2. 2Get additional licenses (gas, roofing) to increase earning potential
  3. 3Consider specializing in commercial or industrial work
  4. 4Business ownership can significantly increase earnings
  5. 5Maintain good customer service for repeat business and referrals

Career information is general guidance based on industry standards. Requirements may vary by employer and location.

Plumber Hourly Rate in Melbourne

Based on a standard 38-hour work week (Australian full-time hours):

Entry Level
$29/hr
Average
$45/hr
Senior
$64/hr

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Plumber earn in Melbourne?

The average Plumber salary in Melbourne is $89,250 per year, or approximately $45 per hour. Salaries range from $57,750 to $126,000 depending on experience.

What is the take-home pay for a Plumber in Melbourne?

A Plumber earning $89,250 in Melbourne takes home approximately $69,902 per year after tax, or $5,825 per month. With a HECS debt, take-home drops to $66,779 per year.

How much do Plumbers make per hour in Melbourne?

Plumbers in Melbourne earn approximately $45 per hour on average, based on a 38-hour work week. Entry-level rates start around $29/hour, while senior professionals can earn up to $64/hour.

Is Melbourne a good place to work as a Plumber?

Melbourne offers Plumber salaries among the highest in Australia at $89,250. The city has a cost of living index of 95 (Sydney = 100), meaning living costs are lower than Sydney.

About Plumber Salaries in Melbourne

The average Plumber in Melbourne, Victoria earns $89,250 per year, or approximately $45 per hour. Salaries typically range from $57,750 for entry-level positions to $126,000 for senior roles with extensive experience.

After income tax, Medicare levy, and other deductions, a Plumber earning the average salary in Melbourne can expect to take home approximately $69,902 per year, or $5,825 per month.

Melbourne is home to approximately 5.1 million people and has a cost of living index of 95 (where Sydney = 100). This means living costs in Melbourne are lower Sydney.

Key Factors Affecting Plumber Salaries

  • Experience Level: Entry-level positions start around $57,750, while senior roles can reach $126,000.
  • Industry: Different industries offer varying compensation for Plumber roles.
  • Company Size: Larger companies typically offer higher salaries and more benefits.
  • Location: Melbourne's cost of living influences salary expectations.
  • Hourly Rate: Based on a 38-hour week, Plumbers earn $$29-$64 per hour.

Salary data is based on industry reports, job postings, and government statistics. Individual salaries may vary based on experience, qualifications, and employer. Tax calculations are estimates for the 2024-25 financial year.