More young Australians are turning to careers in the trades, with Gen Z pursuing secure, well-paid work amid economic uncertainty, rising living costs, and rapid advances in artificial intelligence.
Apprenticeships Are Us (ARU) Ltd General Manager Phil Cooksey said the organisation has seen a significant rise in demand for apprenticeships in recent years, with interest continuing to grow.
“In the 2021–22 financial year, we had 103 people commence their training. That number rose to 142 the following year. And then in 2023–24, more than 240 people started their careers — and we expect that number to climb even higher this year,” Mr Cooksey said.
“Our Apprentice Employment Managers are reporting that many new apprentices are choosing this pathway because the demand for skilled trades offers long-term job security and stability.”
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This shift is supported by recent data. A May 2025 survey by Resume Builder found that 42 per cent of Gen Z adults are either already working in skilled trades or actively pursuing careers in fields such as plumbing, welding, and electrical work.
According to Mr Cooksey, the growing interest in practical, hands-on careers reflects a broader cultural change in how younger generations view work and education.
“Gen Z has witnessed the rapid evolution of AI in real time and understand that many office-based or traditional professional roles could be transformed or even made redundant,” he said.
“AI may soon replace a customer service representative, but there’s still no robot that can lift your car bonnet and fix your gearbox, or climb a roof to lay tiles.”
Cashed up
Mr Cooksey said skilled tradespeople can typically earn between $70,000 and $100,000 annually after just a couple of years’ experience, and strong demand across the country gives them leverage.
“Tradies in almost every industry are needed Australia-wide due to ongoing skills shortages, which means they often have the flexibility to name their price.”
He said many apprentices receive job offers directly from their employers, avoiding lengthy and uncertain job searches.
“We’re receiving daily enquiries from individuals eager to start apprenticeships in fields like carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, machinery operation, and even software development,” he said.
Throughout their training, apprentices receive mentoring, on-the-job support, life skills coaching, and employability training, while completing formal education with a Registered Training Organisation of their choice.