Construction is one of the most important blue-collar industries not only in Australia but also in the world. Carpentry and Cabinet Making are very popular within Australia and the industry is in high demand. Land and property development have been expanding rapidly across Australia, so highly trained, professional carpenters are essential. As for Cabinet Making, it might be unfamiliar to you but like carpenters, cabinet makers are also sought after across Australia. Construction work is often highly paid in Australia and that is why some of the best trade courses are offered here. Moreover, the skills and qualifications gained in Australia are all transferable if you’d rather work overseas.

Carpenters construct, erect, install, renovate, and repair structures and fixtures made of wood, plywood, wallboard, and other materials, and cut, shape and fit timber parts to form structures and fittings. Carpenters often work for large construction companies, and it is mainly project-based work at a residential or commercial building site. In contrast, cabinet makers are often hired by furniture companies and work within a factory. Cabinet makers fabricate and repair wooden furniture, and fit and assemble prepared wooden parts to make furniture which is mainly used for the kitchen or bathroom. Cabinet makers are required to show strong attention to detail.

1. Hands-on training 

Carpentry and Cabinet making courses are both types of “Trade courses”. They are delivered with both theory and practical units so that students not only learn theoretical aspects but also practise skills to prepare to become a qualified tradesperson.  

2. Vocational Placement

Many Australian institutions provide at least 360 hours of vocational placement in the program. This means that students will be able to gain practical knowledge and skills as they work on real projects as an apprentice. 

3. Salary 

According to the website, Indeed, the average salary for a carpenter is AU$88,293 per year, and for a cabinet maker, it is AU$63,385 per year in Australia.  

4. Graduate Visa 

After completing at least 2 years of Carpentry studies in college or TAFE in Australia, students will be eligible to apply for a 485 Graduate Work Visa, providing they also pass the provisional skills assessment (STEP 1 by the TRA) and meet the English requirements to apply for this visa. 

While you hold a 485 Visa (Graduate Work), you will have time to prepare to apply for a Permanent Resident Visa. There are several visa options in the field of carpentry that can lead to Permanent Residency in Australia. 

• Carpenter 
• Joiner 
• Cabinet maker 
• Furniture maker  
• Builder 

1. Carpentry 

• Certificate III in Carpentry – 2 years 
• Certificate III in Carpentry + Certificate IV in Building and Construction – 2 years 

2. Cabinet Making 

• Certificate III in Cabinet Making – 2 years 
• Certificate III in Cabinet Making + Certificate IV in Furniture Design and Technology – 2 years  

Carpentry and Cabinet Making courses are delivered by TAFE and private colleges in Australia.