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Many trades in Australia are experiencing skill shortages. These trades are often those that are not well known to the public. Apprenticeships in these areas are in high demand and can greatly help to improve the shortage of qualified tradespeople. Here are three examples of highly sought after apprentices:

Locksmiths

The demand for locksmiths has increased 35 percent over the past five years. Locksmiths are well paid and experience a very fulfilling career in knowing that they are helping to protect others. Most locksmiths with five to nine years of experience make from $39,541 to $44,291 per year. As well, employers may provide paid vacations and holidays, health insurance and pension plans. And of course, there is always the possibility of increasing your pay rate by using your expertise to run your own shop.

Arborists

Very few individuals are currently pursuing their certificate in Arboriculture, or Horticulture, making this a very sought after apprenticeship by employers. Many people are unaware of the opportunities available to them within the industry which includes the development of skills that may lead to various and high paid positions. An average Arborist (aka “Tree Surgeon” or “Tree Care Professional”) makes approximately $35,000-$40,000 per year. However, government employed supervisors can make between $50,000 to $55,000 per year and top supervisors $90,000 to $110,000 per year. Arborists have a wide range of responsibilities from tree maintenance to diagnosing disease and pest problems in trees to calculating the monetary value of trees.

Butchers

Most butchers in Australia range in age from 25 to 34 and 85% of vacancies in this profession are created by people who leave the industry, creating a large gap in the field.  Butchers not only select, cut, prepare and display meat but may also dress the meat with various mixes of herbs and spices. An average work day starts at 6 am and a butcher’s salary ranges from $20,000 to $40,000 per year. However, as a professional it is always possible to increase your potential earnings by using your skills to run your own business.

If you are looking for a way to secure yourself a career, check out one of these in demand apprenticeships Australia!

Image by {Guerrilla Futures | Jason Tester}