Looking for a Higher-Paying Trade Career?

Australia’s skilled trades are thriving — and some roles are now paying six figures.
If you’ve been on the tools for years or you’re considering a new qualification, now’s the time to turn your experience into a nationally recognised qualification through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

Here are five of the best-paying trades in Australia and how you can get formally recognised with Gimbal Group.

1. Engineering Trades – Mechanical, Fabrication & Mobile Plant

Engineering trades are among the most in-demand and well-paid fields in Australia. Skilled tradespeople who can maintain, fabricate, or repair machinery can earn $90,000–$130,000+ a year — especially in mining, manufacturing, and heavy industry.

Pathways Available with Gimbal Group:

• MEM30219 – Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade
• MEM31922 – Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade
• MEM31419 – Certificate III in Engineering – Fixed & Mobile Plant Mechanic
• MEM40119 – Certificate IV in Engineering

If you already have hands-on experience, RPL Australia can help you gain your qualification without starting from scratch.

2. Cabinet Making & Timber Technology

Cabinet makers and joiners remain highly sought after for residential, commercial, and bespoke projects. Skilled tradespeople often earn $75,000–$100,000, with higher potential for those running their own businesses.

Pathway Available with Gimbal Group:

• MSF30322 – Certificate III in Cabinet Making and Timber Technology

Your practical experience in woodworking, furniture making, or fit-outs can be assessed through RPL to achieve formal recognition.

3. Painting and Decorating

Australia’s construction boom continues to drive strong demand for painters and decorators. Qualified professionals can earn $70,000–$95,000, and even more if you manage your own contracts.

Pathway Available with Gimbal Group:

• CPC30620 – Certificate III in Painting and Decorating

With RPL, your on-site experience and project portfolio can be used as evidence toward your qualification.

4. Wall and Floor Tiling

Tilers play a vital role across construction and renovation industries. With consistent demand and skill shortages, experienced tilers can earn $80,000–$110,000, particularly for commercial and high-end work.

Pathway Available with Gimbal Group:

• CPC31320 – Certificate III in Wall and Floor Tiling

If you’ve been laying tiles for years, RPL can help you secure your qualification fast.

5. Glass and Glazing

This specialised trade requires precision and safety — and it pays accordingly. Qualified glaziers often earn $75,000–$100,000, with opportunities in residential, commercial, and architectural glazing.

Pathway Available with Gimbal Group:

• MSF30422 – Certificate III in Glass and Glazing

With the right evidence, your glazing experience can be recognised through RPL and lead to a nationally recognised qualification.

How RPL Works

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) recognises your real-world experience against qualification standards.
Here’s how it works with Gimbal Group:

1. Free Skills Review – Check your eligibility for RPL.
2. Evidence Collection – Provide job references, photos, or work samples.
3. Assessment – An assessor reviews your portfolio.
4. Qualification Issued – Receive your nationally recognised qualification.

It’s the fastest and most practical way to get your trade certificate in Queensland or anywhere in Australia.

Why Act Now

With skilled trade shortages across the country, qualified workers have never been in higher demand.
Completing your RPL assessment before the new year can position you for better-paying contracts, licensing upgrades, or self-employment opportunities in 2026.

Take the Next Step

If you’ve got the skills, now’s the time to make them official.
👉 Start Your RPL Assessment Today and get qualified fast with Gimbal Group.

If you have a question, please contact us.