Part of the next generation of tradies, Goulburn-based TAFE NSW apprentice plumber Jack Rhall is supporting Australia’s need for more housing, at a time when plumbers are experiencing an expected annual employment growth of 2,900 workers per year across the nation according to Jobs and Skills Australia.

Plumbing is an essential part of any new home and more than 180,000 new homes are forecast each year from 2025 through to 2028 by the Master Builders Association. Second-year TAFE NSW Certificate III Plumbing student Mr Rhall has timed his entry into the industry well, securing an apprenticeship with local business Croker Plumbing and Gas, with the construction sector among the largest employers in Goulburn Mulwaree.

“Although there’s a lot to learn, I can apply the skills I’m learning at TAFE NSW to real-life scenarios on job sites. I’m getting a solid foundation in plumbing, which is something I can continue to build on throughout my career,” he said.

18-year-old Mr Rhall said he chose a trade because he wanted a hands-on career.

“I wanted to get on with working and gaining a qualification. By 22 I’ll be a qualified plumber and from there I could start my own business, employing other people.

“My TAFE NSW teacher often provides real-life examples from his career in the plumbing industry. You won’t always get this from a textbook.”

TAFE NSW Plumbing teacher Andrew Whalan said TAFE NSW is uniquely positioned to equip students with the hands-on, practical skills they need to develop successful careers, as Australia’s largest provider of skills training.  

“There’s so many opportunities to make a difference working in construction, and our skills-based courses allow students to hit the ground running working in local industries and stay living and working in regional areas,” Mr Whalan said. 

“With plumbing and the broader construction sectors across NSW experiencing considerable job growth, there’s an opportunity to choose from a diverse range of careers.”

Media contact: Adam Wright, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, mobile 0466 375 552.