Why Plumbing Apprenticeships
CORE plumbing apprentices are employed by us and placed with reputable industry partners across metropolitan and regional Victoria. While working on site, apprentices complete a Certificate III in Plumbing through an approved Registered Training Organisation. The combination of paid work and formal training builds the practical capability and the recognised qualification needed to register as a licensed plumber with the Victorian Building Authority.
Plumbing remains in consistent demand across residential builds, commercial fit-outs and infrastructure projects. The trade also opens long-term doors, including specialist licensing, gas fitting endorsements, business ownership and supervision roles. CORE places apprentices on quality sites and stays involved for the full apprenticeship.
Career Pathways
Once qualified, plumbers can specialise across a wide range of services and sectors. Many go on to run their own business. CORE supports apprentices to think long-term from day one. The apprenticeship is the foundation, not the finish line.
- Residential and commercial plumbing
- Drainage and sanitary systems
- Roofing and stormwater
- Gas fitting (Type A and Type B)
- Hydraulic services and water supply
- Mechanical services such as heating, cooling and fire systems
- Site supervision, foreman and project management
- Self-employment as a registered plumbing practitioner running your own business
Courses & Training
Plumbing apprentices combine on-the-job experience with formal study, building the practical skills and the regulatory knowledge needed to register as a licensed plumber in Victoria.
The nationally recognised qualification for employed plumbing apprentices. The qualification builds skills across drainage, sanitary plumbing, water supply, gas fitting, roofing and stormwater. It meets the requirements for VBA registration as a licensed plumber.
Delivered through an approved Registered Training Organisation, scheduled alongside paid employment. Apprentices typically attend training in blocks or one day per week, depending on the RTO and the host site. CORE coordinates the training contract and works with the RTO to keep progress on track.
The Construction Induction (White Card) is required. First Aid and CPR are strongly recommended. PPE is supplied by CORE and includes safety boots, hi-vis clothing, gloves, safety glasses and hearing protection. Project-specific inductions, drug and alcohol testing, and medical assessments may apply depending on the host site.
Job Opportunities for Qualified Plumbers
CORE places plumbing apprentices with industry partners across Melbourne metropolitan and regional Victoria. The network spans residential builders, commercial contractors and infrastructure operators, providing apprentices with broad exposure to plumbing applications across the four years.
Every industry partner is screened by CORE before placement. They commit to providing meaningful trade work, qualified supervision and a safe site. CORE Field Officers visit regularly to make sure the placement is supporting progress, and step in if anything needs adjusting.
Victoria-wide. Applications are accepted year-round across metropolitan and regional Victoria. Submit your details, and a CORE team member will be in touch about current and upcoming placements.
Take the first step toward a long-term trade career with structured training, real industry experience, and ongoing support from CORE
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Do I need previous plumbing experience to apply?
No. Apprenticeships are entry-level by design. The right attitude, a genuine interest in the trade and a willingness to work safely and learn matter most. Pre-apprenticeship training or hands-on project experience is a bonus, not a requirement.
Who employs me, CORE or the industry partner?
CORE. We are the legal employer for the full duration of the apprenticeship. CORE pays wages, manages superannuation and looks after all employment obligations. The industry partner provides the day-to-day supervision and on-the-job training.
What qualification do I get, and how long does it take?
The qualification is the Certificate III in Plumbing, a nationally recognised qualification that meets the requirements for VBA plumbing registration in Victoria. The apprenticeship runs full-time over approximately four years, subject to satisfactory progress and competency.
What are the working hours?
Full-time employment is typically 38 hours per week, generally Monday to Friday with start times around 7:00am. Overtime or weekend work may be required on some projects. Off-the-job training is scheduled alongside paid work, either one day per week or in blocks, depending on the RTO and host site.
Who can apply?
Strong applicants are 18 years or older, have completed Year 12 or equivalent with solid literacy and numeracy, are physically fit, comfortable with hands-on work in varied conditions, hold or are working toward a driver’s licence with reliable transport, and are an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
What does it cost me?
Tuition fees are set by the RTO delivering the qualification, and government subsidies or concessions may apply for eligible apprentices. Budget for mandatory tickets and licences (approximately $50 to $200 each), additional PPE and tools, and any medical or induction costs not covered by the host site.
What happens if my host placement changes?
Your job and your training contract remain with CORE. If a placement ends or is not the right fit, we work with you to find another suitable host site. Progress toward the qualification is not affected.
Can I get a gas fitting endorsement through this apprenticeship?
Gas fitting is typically delivered as part of the Certificate III in Plumbing in Victoria. Most plumbing apprentices complete the gas fitting components within the qualification. Final licensing endorsements are issued by the VBA and the relevant gas regulator. CORE works with the apprentice and the RTO to make sure the training plan covers the competencies required.
