Electricians in Western Australia

Electricians play a significant role in keeping the lights on and helping build our energy infrastructures in both rural towns and city centres.

Their efforts help maintain our high quality of living in Western Australia (WA).

Are you an electrician considering a change of location?

WA is looking for skilled electricians across WA. We have a range of significant infrastructure projects you could be a part of.

Below you can find out more about what you need to work as an electrician in WA and what you need to move. If you’re ready to check out all the electrical jobs available now, go to Seek.

Electrician licences in WA

You’ll need an electrical worker’s licence to trade as an electrician in WA. Learn more about the electrical worker’s licence from the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS) website.

If you work in construction, you’ll need a Construction Induction Card, also known as a white card. Visit the Construction Induction Training page on the DMIRS website for further information.

Required registration and licences

  • Electrical worker’s licence

    You may also need:

  • Construction Induction Card

  • Driver’s licence (C Class)

Electricians moving to WA from overseas

To work in Australia, you'll need a valid visa. There are several different visa options available, including temporary and permanent visas. Your eligibility will depend on your situation and qualifications. More information on Australian visas is on the Migration WA website.

Electricians qualified overseas must complete a Trades Recognition Australia assessment (TRA) (external link). The assessment will allow you to receive an Offshore Technical Skills Record (OTSR). This will record your skills against Australian Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualifications. You’ll need the OTSR to gain a provisional licence.

A provisional licence allows you to work under the supervision of a licenced electrician. This means you can still work while completing Australian context gap training. Once you have completed the gap training, you can apply for your WA electrical worker's licence.

More information on the steps to become a licenced electrician is available on the Migration WA website.

Skilled workers seeking to connect with WA employers can do so by registering for the Skilled Migrant Employment Register (external link). If an employer wishes to contact you through the register, Migration WA will provide them with your contact details.

Electricians moving to WA from another state or territory within Australia

You’ll need to apply for mutual recognition (external link). Mutual recognition entitles you to trade in another state once you have informed the second state’s licencing authority.

Visit the DMIRS website to learn more about mutual recognition for electricians, or how to apply.

If you need a vehicle for your work, you’ll need to ensure your Driver’s licence/s are transferred. If you’re bringing a vehicle with you, you must transfer the registration over to WA. Learn more about licence and vehicle registration transfers via the DoT website.

Each state and territory in Australia have individual licensing requirements. Check the validity of any other relevant licences and transfer to WA or apply where required.

How much can I earn as an electrician in Australia?

$90,849

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics website under Employee Earnings (May 2021 release), electricians earn an estimated $90,849 per year. 

What kind of work could I have as an electrician in WA?

Some work WA electricians can expect as part of their role includes:

  • Installing, repairing and maintaining electrical systems and equipment

  • Conducting testing to trace and diagnose faults

  • Removing electrical hazards.

How to become an electrician in WA

Electricians require a 4-year apprenticeship with a licensed employer, must complete a Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician or Certificate III in Engineering – Industrial Electrician and undertake a Capstone Assessment.

You’ll need an electrician’s training licence while completing your apprenticeship. To learn more or to apply, visit the DMIRS website.

If you’re considering applying for apprenticeships and traineeships, you could qualify for reduced tuition fees under the State Government’s Lower Fees, Local Skills initiative.

For more information, visit the Jobs & Skills WA website.

Training and qualifications

  • 4-year apprenticeship

  • Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician (UEE30820); or

  • Certificate III in Engineering – Industrial Electrician (MEM31219)

  • Undertake Capstone Assessment

Ready to look for your next electrician role in WA?

Explore WA’s exciting project pipeline

  • METRONET

    METRONET is the single largest investment in public transport WA has ever seen, creating more than 10,000 jobs.

  • Housing Construction Project

    The WA Government’s $2.4 billion investment in social housing and homelessness.

  • Geraldton Port

    The WA Government is investing $350 million to expand the Port of Geraldton creating 2,700 jobs.

  • New Women and Babies Hospital

    This $1.8 billion WA Government project will create more than 1,400 jobs during construction.

View Projects