Plumbers play a crucial role in Australia's construction and maintenance industry. They are responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of various plumbing systems, including pipes, drains, guttering, and metal roofing. Additionally, they handle mechanical services and related equipment for water supply, gas, drainage, sewerage, heating, cooling, and ventilation systems.

Indicative Skill Level:

Most occupations within the plumber unit group require a certain level of skill, which can be attained through qualifications and experience. In Australia, individuals must possess an AQF Certificate III, which includes at least two years of on-the-job training, or an AQF Certificate IV (ANZSCO Skill Level 3). In New Zealand, a NZQF Level 4 qualification is required (ANZSCO Skill Level 3).

It is important to note that three years of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualifications mentioned above. In some cases, additional experience and/or on-the-job training may be necessary alongside the formal qualification. Plumbers also need to be registered or licensed.

Tasks Include:

• Studying blueprints, drawings, and specifications to determine plumbing system layouts and required materials.
• Setting out and installing hot and cold water systems, as well as associated equipment.
• Installing water-based fire protection systems, including fire hydrants, hose reels, and sprinkler systems.
• Designing and installing sanitary plumbing and water supply systems, discharge pipes, and fixtures.
• Fabricating and installing soil and waste stacks.
• Assembling and installing mechanical services plant, air handling and conditioning equipment, and small bore heating systems.
• Installing sewerage and effluent pumping equipment and disposal systems.
• Installing below-ground drainage systems and associated ground support systems.
• Installing, maintaining, and repairing gas mains, piping systems downstream of the billing meter, as well as appliances and ancillary equipment related to fuel gases.
• Fabricating and installing metal roofing, rainwater goods, and flashings.

Occupations:

• 334112 Airconditioning and Mechanical Services Plumber
• 334113 Drainer
• 334114 Gasfitter
• 334115 Roof Plumber
• 334116 Plumber (General)
• 334117 Fire Protection Plumber

334112 Airconditioning and Mechanical Services Plumber

These plumbers specialize in the installation, maintenance, and repair of piping, ducting, and equipment used for heating, cooling, and ventilation purposes in buildings or vessels. Registration or licensing is required.

Skill Level: 3

334113 Drainer

Alternative Title: Plumber and Drainer

Drainers are responsible for installing, maintaining, and designing below-ground drainage systems, as well as associated sewerage or effluent disposal systems. Registration or licensing is required.

Skill Level: 3

334114 Gasfitter

Alternative Title: Plumber and Gasfitter

Gasfitters specialize in the installation, maintenance, and repair of gas mains, piping systems downstream of the billing meter, and appliances and ancillary equipment related to the use of fuel gases, including liquefied petroleum gas systems. Registration or licensing is required.

Skill Level: 3

334115 Roof Plumber

Roof plumbers focus on the installation, maintenance, and repair of flashings, metallic roof and wall claddings, and rainwater products such as gutters and downpipes. Registration or licensing is required. It is important to note that roof tilers are not included in this occupation.

Skill Level: 3

Specialization: Fascia and Guttering Installer

334116 Plumber (General)

General plumbers handle the installation and repair of water, drainage, gas, and sewerage pipes and systems, excluding water-based fire protection systems. Registration or licensing is required.

Skill Level: 3

334117 Fire Protection Plumber

Fire protection plumbers specialize in the installation, testing, servicing, and repair of water-based fire protection systems, including fire hydrants, hose reels, and sprinkler systems. Registration or licensing is required. It is important to note that fire alarm technicians and fire protection equipment technicians are not included in this occupation.

Skill Level: 3

Specialization: Sprinkler Fitter