How to Become A Joiner
A joiner cuts, shapes and fits timber parts in a workshop. The finished pieces are installed in homes and commercial buildings. They make doors, window frames, staircases and kitchen cabinetry.
Most joinery happens in a dedicated workshop, not on a building site. Joiners read technical drawings and pick the right timber or materials. They use machines and hand tools to craft each piece to exact dimensions.
Day-to-day work involves measuring and cutting timber, forming wood joints, assembling parts and applying finishes. You also check your work against drawings before it goes to site. Attention to detail matters at every step.
About 4,300 joiners work in Australia, and 83% are full-time (Your Career, 2025). Future demand is rated moderate, driven by steady construction activity. It suits anyone who likes hands-on work and takes pride in what they make.
Career Outlook for Joiner
Joinery has a steady outlook across Australia. Around 4,300 people work as joiners, with 83% in full-time roles. The average working week is 42 hours (Your Career, 2025).
The median age of a joiner is 36 years. Almost half of all joiners are under 35. It is a young trade with plenty of room to grow. Future demand is rated moderate by the Australian Government. Residential construction and commercial fit-out both drive demand for skilled joiners. The median weekly wage is $1,787, or about $93,000 a year (Your Career, 2025).
After qualifying, many joiners move into cabinetmaking, carpentry, construction supervision or self-employment. The skills are transferable. Experienced joiners with specialist knowledge can earn more and progress to senior roles or run their own workshop.
About the author
Explore career guides by Laura Atkinson. Practical how-to-become advice on qualifications, skills, salary and job outlook across Australia.