Apprentice Electrician Wages in Australia (Updated 2025)

Apprentice electrician wages in Australia are set by the Electrical, Electronic and Communications Contracting Award 2020. Pay varies by year of apprenticeship, age, and award conditions. As of July 2025, 1st year apprentice wages start from approximately $15.67, with higher rates for mature-age apprentices. 

The Basics of Electrician Apprenticeship Wages & Electrical Awards

It's natural to be curious about your potential income while you learn your trade. The good news is, apprenticeship wages in Australia are structured to grow with your experience. 

Most apprenticeships in Australia, including electrical ones, follow the federal award system. This means your wages increase as you progress through your apprenticeship. This could be time-based (for example, an annual increase), or competency-based (based on the skills you've gained). This, along with other benefits, will depend on the specific award that your apprenticeship falls under.

All apprentice electrician wages are governed by the Electrical, Electronic and Communications Contracting Award 2020 (MA000025).

The Award sets:

• Minimum wages by year of apprenticeship.
• Allowances (tools, travel, fares, meal allowances).
• Overtime and penalty rates. 
• Apprentice progression rules

Employers must comply with this Award, and apprentices can check their current pay through the Fair Work pay calculator.

Note: The wage figures in this article have been updated for the 2026 financial year (1 July 2025 – 30 June 2026) and are provided as a general guide. Actual pay can vary, as many employers may offer higher rates or additional benefits to attract and retain skilled electrical apprentices.

Getting Started: 1st Year Apprentice Electrician Wages in Australia

If you are starting your electrical apprenticeship in 2025 you can expect to be paid a base hourly rate of between $15.67 to $24.72. However, there are various factors that may affect this hourly rate: 

• Your age.
• Your highest level of completed education.
• When you started your apprenticeship. 

A Snapshot of Electrical Apprentice Wages

Let's dive into the numbers. Electrical apprenticeships come under the Electrical, Electronic and Communications Contracting Award 2010 [MA000025]. And, in it it sets out the minimum amounts that apprentices can be paid. However, keep in mind that is the bare minimum - and this amount often changes from state to state, and even from employer to employer. It can differ based on your jobsite - so keep that in mind. 

We also need to talk about the difference between loaded and unloaded wages. Essentially, un-loaded wage is your base rate. But, on top of that you also get a bunch of allowances including tool, industry and licence allowances. So once you add all those up, and if you're an electrical apprentice who started the journey before turning 21, here's what you might expect to earn. 

As of July, 2025 this pay guide was implemented: 

Remember, these numbers are just a guide. Various factors can affect your actual wage, such as your age, level of schooling, the state you're in, and when you started your apprenticeship. As well as different rates for overtime, public holidays and more. You can download the full 2025 PDF pay guide here. 

Wages for Mature Age Electrical Apprentices

A mature age apprentice is usually defined as someone aged 21 years or older at the time they start their apprenticeship.

• Mature age apprentices earn higher base rates than younger apprentices.
• Their wages are still tied to the Award but adjusted to reflect their age category.
• Some employers may also negotiate higher pay based on experience.
• Unlike younger apprentices, mature age apprentices start on a higher wage, which tends to level out sooner.

As of July, 2025 this pay guide was implemented: 

Adult apprentice - 1st year = $24.72 hourly pay rate.
Adult apprentice - 2nd, 3rd, 4th year = $27.32 hourly pay rate. 

Remember, these numbers are just a guide. There are various factors that will affect this rate, as well as different rates for overtime, public holidays and more. You can download the full 2025 PDF pay guide here. 

Why Wages Vary Across Apprenticeships

Wages can differ from one industry to another, usually balancing out with working conditions. For instance, a construction apprentice might earn more than a fitter and turner due to the challenging conditions in construction, such as weather, travel times, and safety considerations.

How to Check Your Apprentice Wage

• Visit the Fair Work Pay Calculator
• Enter your role as Electrical Apprentice and which year you are looking for.
• Select your award.
• Follow the steps.
• View your current base rate and allowances.

Key Takeaways: 

• Apprentice electrician wages vary by year and age.
• 1st year apprentices earn the lowest rates, but wages increase each year.
• Mature age apprentices are entitled to higher base rates.
• All wages are set by the Electrical, Electronic and Communications Contracting Award 2020.
• Always check Fair Work for the latest updates.

So, in 2025, If you are a 1st year apprentice you can expect to be earning from $595.51 - $939.42 a week, depending on your age and completed schooling level. Various factors affect this wage, make sure to visit the Fair Work website for full details. 

Conclusion

An electrical apprenticeship anywhere in Australia is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on skills while earning a competitive wage that increases with your experience. 

As an electrical apprentice, you can expect a steady progression in your earnings, reflecting their growing competencies and skills. 

The exact wages can vary based on age, education, location, and employment agreements. With these considerations in mind, an electrical apprenticeship offers a rewarding pathway to a rewarding career in a high-demand industry. 

Ready to embark on your electrical apprenticeship journey? Apply for an apprenticeship today or get in touch with the friendly team at EGT to learn more.