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Plumber Salary in Wollongong

Trades

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

Average Salary
$74,800
per year
Take-Home Pay
$60,076
after tax (no HECS)
Salary Range
$48-106k
$75K
$48K$106K

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 Wollongong

Based on the average Plumber salary of $74,800 in Wollongong, here's what you can expect to take home after tax, Medicare levy, and superannuation.

ComponentWithout HECSWith HECS
Gross Salary$74,800$74,800
Income Tax-$13,228-$13,228
Medicare Levy (2%)-$1,496-$1,496
HELP/HECS Repayment$0-$2,244
Superannuation (11%)+$8,228+$8,228
Annual Take-Home$60,076$57,832
Monthly Take-Home$5,006$4,819
Fortnightly Take-Home$2,311$2,224

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
$75,000
Take-home$60,076
Tax-$13,228
Super+$8,228

How to Become a Plumber

Everything you need to know about breaking into a career as a Plumber in New South Wales.

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
$37KEntry$75KMid$90KSenior$112KLead
Entry Level

Plumbing Apprentice

$37,400
estimated in Wollongong
0-4 years
Mid Level

Licensed Plumber

$74,800
estimated in Wollongong
4-8 years
Senior Level

Lead Plumber

$89,760
estimated in Wollongong
8-15 years
Leadership

Plumbing Contractor / Business Owner

$112,200
estimated in Wollongong
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 Wollongong

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

Entry Level
$24/hr
Average
$38/hr
Senior
$53/hr

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Plumber earn in Wollongong?

The average Plumber salary in Wollongong is $74,800 per year, or approximately $38 per hour. Salaries range from $48,400 to $105,600 depending on experience.

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

A Plumber earning $74,800 in Wollongong takes home approximately $60,076 per year after tax, or $5,006 per month. With a HECS debt, take-home drops to $57,832 per year.

How much do Plumbers make per hour in Wollongong?

Plumbers in Wollongong earn approximately $38 per hour on average, based on a 38-hour work week. Entry-level rates start around $24/hour, while senior professionals can earn up to $53/hour.

Is Wollongong a good place to work as a Plumber?

Wollongong offers Plumber salaries below average in Australia at $74,800. The city has a cost of living index of 82 (Sydney = 100), meaning living costs are lower than Sydney.

About Plumber Salaries in Wollongong

The average Plumber in Wollongong, New South Wales earns $74,800 per year, or approximately $38 per hour. Salaries typically range from $48,400 for entry-level positions to $105,600 for senior roles with extensive experience.

After income tax, Medicare levy, and other deductions, a Plumber earning the average salary in Wollongong can expect to take home approximately $60,076 per year, or $5,006 per month.

Wollongong is home to approximately 310,000 people and has a cost of living index of 82 (where Sydney = 100). This means living costs in Wollongong are lower Sydney.

Key Factors Affecting Plumber Salaries

  • Experience Level: Entry-level positions start around $48,400, while senior roles can reach $105,600.
  • Industry: Different industries offer varying compensation for Plumber roles.
  • Company Size: Larger companies typically offer higher salaries and more benefits.
  • Location: Wollongong's cost of living influences salary expectations.
  • Hourly Rate: Based on a 38-hour week, Plumbers earn $$24-$53 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.