Careers & pathways
How to become a carpenter in Australia
Carpenters set out, build, assemble and install structures in timber and related materials on residential and commercial sites.
The work
What the job involves
- Read plans and set out work to measurements
- Frame floors, walls and roofs
- Install doors, windows, stairs and fixtures
- Form up for concrete pours
- Work to building codes and site safety requirements
Where the work happens
Residential and commercial building sites, mostly outdoors and often at height. Work is physical and usually starts early.
Typical qualification pathway
The qualification usually used to enter this work
The usual entry qualification is Certificate III in Carpentry (CPC30220), a nationally recognised qualification on the national register. The registered training organisations approved to deliver and issue it are listed on training.gov.au.
Related
Careers like this one
Joiner
Joiners make and install timber doors, windows, staircases and fitted joinery, usually working from a workshop rather than on site.
About this career→
Cabinet maker
Cabinet makers build cabinets and fitted furniture from timber and manufactured board.
About this career→
Builder and building supervisor
Builders and building supervisors plan, estimate, coordinate and supervise residential and commercial building projects.
About this career→
Bricklayer
Bricklayers lay brick, block and stone to build walls and structures to plan and to specification.
About this career→Last reviewed: 2026-09-10
Thinking about a career in carpenter?
Book a free consultation and we'll help you compare providers and prepare your application.