Carpentry Apprenticeship

A carpenter is a skilled tradesperson who works with timber and other building materials to construct, install and repair structures, fixtures and fittings. Carpenters work primarily in the construction industry, but also for manufacturers and as independent contractors.

Day-to-day work can include:

• Setting out building outlines on site using string and pegs to mark excavations
• Reading and interpreting plans and specifications to determine dimensions, materials and installation processes
• Cutting materials with hand and power tools, then assembling, nailing or shaping parts
• Constructing formwork into which concrete is poured to form slabs and bases
• Building floors, wall frameworks (timber or metal) and roofs
• Laying timber floors, installing flooring underlay and insulating materials
• Installing door handles, locks, hardware and other fixtures
• Working alongside other trades on residential, commercial and civil projects

There are three main specialisation areas within carpentry, and depending on your host employer, your on-the-job training will see you qualified across one or more:

Domestic carpentry: Focused on the construction of individual private residences, including house extensions, renovations and standard building maintenance

Commercial carpentry: Building and constructing shops, offices and other commercial spaces, often including formwork and shop-fitting

Industrial carpentry: Working alongside multiple contractors on major construction projects such as apartment buildings and commercial towers

In 2026, qualified carpenters in Australia typically earn between $80,000 and $90,000 per year, with higher salaries available in mining, commercial construction, infrastructure and energy projects. (Seek)

Carpentry Apprentice Wages

As an apprentice carpenter, you'll typically be paid under the Building and Construction General On-site Award or an EBA provided by your employer. Apprentice wages increase each year as you progress through your apprenticeship and develop practical construction and finishing skills.

Your weekly pay can vary depending on factors such as whether you've completed Year 12, whether you're an adult apprentice, any EBA conditions, employer or host benefits, and relevant government support.

Indicative weekly Award wages for a carpentry apprentice as at 1 July 2025, ranging from 1st year (lowest) to 4th year (highest):

• Junior apprentice, did not complete Year 12: $637.90 to $1,065.26 per week
• Junior apprentice, completed Year 12: $691.32 to $1,065.26 per week
• Adult apprentice (21 years and over): $1,065.26 per week (flat across all years)

(Source: Fair Work Ombudsman Pay Guide MA000020)

These rates apply to a 4-year carpentry apprenticeship in non-residential building and construction and include applicable industry and tool allowances. Actual wages may vary across residential, commercial and civil construction sectors, as well as between employers and enterprise agreements.

Carpentry qualifications are included on the Government's Australian Apprenticeship Priority List, meaning eligible apprentices may be able to access additional financial support during their apprenticeship.

Find a Construction Apprenticeship

A carpentry qualification opens doors across construction and beyond, including:

• Residential building and renovation
• Commercial fit-out and shop-fitting
• Industrial and high-rise construction
• Formwork specialisation
• Joinery and custom cabinetry
• Heritage and restoration carpentry
• Site supervision, foreman and project management roles
• Estimating and quantity surveying (with further study)
• Becoming a licensed builder (with further qualifications)
• Self-employment as a contractor or workshop owner

Many qualified carpenters use their apprenticeship as a stepping stone, moving into supervisory roles, further study toward a builder's licence, or starting their own business within a few years of qualifying.