Australia's construction and design industries drive a high demand for skilled tradespeople, including cabinet makers. For international aspirants, cabinet-making courses present creativity and job security opportunities. So, why are these courses relevant, and what does it take to succeed in these fields? Let's explore!

How Relevant is Cabinet-Making Course in Australia? Is there a Growing Need?

Cabinet-making courses in Australia are highly relevant due to the booming construction industry and growing demand for custom-made kitchen cabinets. This creates a strong demand for skilled cabinet-makers professionals. Reference: PA Kitchen

The growing population, urbanisation, booming construction and renovation sectors, rising demand for custom furniture, skilled labour shortage, technological advancements, government initiatives, and evolving design trends all contribute to the increasing cabinet-making demand.

Reasons to Consider Cabinet-Making

Acquiring cabinet-making skills in your course offers several compelling advantages. 

• Enhanced Career Prospects: Increased Employability, Wider Range Roles, and Career Advancements
• Improved Project Management: Efficiency and Organisation, Cost Control, Communication and Collaboration.
• Business Opportunities: Entrepreneurship and Freelancing
• Specific benefits in the Australian Context: High demand and Recognition of skills

Course Package and Fees to Take in Becoming a Skilled Cabinet-Maker

What Qualifications Should You Study?

The Cabinet-Making Program consists of two nationally recognised qualifications that must be completed over two years and eight months of study.

1. Certificate III in Cabinet Making and Timber Technology
2. Certificate IV in Building Project Support
3. Diploma of Building and Construction

The qualifications that should be included in the package are listed below:

Certificate III in Cabinet Making and Timber Technology - Individuals with this qualification specialise in manufacturing and installing timber products, including furniture and cabinetry. They develop skills in tool use, measuring, CAD drawing, and preparing cutting lists, along with teamwork and sustainability. The 92-week program includes 48 weeks of classes, 24 weeks of practical placements, and 20 weeks for breaks or reassessment.

• Duration: It takes 1.7 years to complete

Certificate IV in Building Project Support - Equips students with estimating, subcontractor claims, and contract drafting skills. This qualification targets specific career paths and requires completion of general construction induction training, which is satisfied by unit PCCWHS1001.

• Duration: It takes 7 months to complete

• Duration: It takes 1.2 years to complete

View our course page: Cabinet Making and Timber Technology

How Much Does it Cost to Study Cabinet-Making in Australia?

The costs of studying Cabinet-Making and Timber Technology courses in Australia can vary depending on the qualification, training provider, and location. Studyaway offers the cheapest fee at $26,000 to $35,000

View the course package: Cabinet Making and Timber Technology

Entry Requirements for International Students Studying Carpentry in Australia

Entry into the carpentry package is relatively low, as the initial course is a Certificate III and accessible to most people. Entry requirements are listed below. However, opportunities for those with relevant work experience also exist.

1. Course Requirements (refer to the course package above)

• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Secondary School Year 11 (pass) transcripts
• English Language Proficiency - - IELTS (5.5 to 6.0), TOEFL, PTE Academic)

2. Student Visa (subclass 500) Requirements

• Provide evidence of enrollment in an RTO offering the required course packaged for Cabinet Making & Timber Technology.
• Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement: Evidence of financial capacity to support your stay in Australia (tuition, living expenses).
• You must not have a history of visa refusals or overstays in Australia or other countries.
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for all international students.
• You must meet Australia’s character requirements, including a police clearance from your home country.

Cabinet-Making Job Prospects 

Expertise in cabinet-making can contribute to urban development. Here's a breakdown of the job prospects:

Cabinet Makers - are skilled woodworkers who create cabinetry and furniture, providing the internal structure that makes a house feel like home.

• With an average annual salary of $75,000 to $95,000

French Polisher/Polisher—A specialist applies a high-gloss finish to wood using shellac and French polishing. This technique involves layering shellac with a cloth to create a smooth, shiny surface, often used on fine furniture and antiques. It requires precision to achieve a rich finish.

• With an average annual salary of $65,000 to $75,000

These salary ranges are approximations based on current data and can fluctuate depending on factors like experience, qualifications, and specific locations in Australia.

Career Progression Opportunities

1. Construction Manager - They are involved in all aspects of a building site’s operations and must thoroughly understand the building and construction industry.
2. Building Surveyors - Ensure buildings are constructed safely and meet legislative requirements.

Challenges and Rewards of Studying Carpentry Course in Australia

Studying cabinet-making in Australia offers a unique blend of opportunities and challenges. Here's a breakdown of the firm and weak points to help you make an informed decision:

Rewards

1. High Demand: Australia’s construction and renovation industries are thriving, creating a strong demand for skilled cabinet makers. This results in excellent job prospects and competitive salaries.
2. Quality Education: Australia offers a well-regarded vocational education and training (VET) sector, with high-quality cabinet-making courses taught by experienced professionals in well-equipped workshops.
3. Hands-on Learning: Courses emphasise practical learning, allowing you to develop skills through significant workshop experience and real-world projects.
4. Diverse Career Options: A cabinet-making qualification opens doors to various career paths, including traditional cabinet making, furniture making, shop fitting, and furniture design.
5. Earning Potential: Skilled cabinet makers can earn a good living, and experience can further increase your earning potential.
6. Creative and Rewarding Work: This craft allows for creativity and the satisfaction of bringing your creations to life.

Challenges

1. Cost of Education: In Australia, international students face higher tuition fees and living expenses.
2. Physical Demands: The trade requires physical stamina, as you’ll spend long hours on your feet and handle heavy materials.
3. Competition: Despite high demand, job competition in major cities can be fierce; networking is essential.
4. Language Barrier: Non-native English speakers may struggle with technical communication but can access language support services.
5. Workplace Safety: Safety is crucial, as the job involves handling sharp tools and machinery.
6. Finding an Apprenticeship: Securing an apprenticeship can be competitive and may take time.

Post-Study Visas for Cabinet-Making Graduates

There have always been stable pathways for Carpenter graduates to stay in Australia. However, you must work as a “Cabinet-maker” and undergo a skills assessment to possess adequate skills and knowledge of the following:

• examining drawings, work orders and sample parts to determine specifications
• selecting and working with materials such as timber, veneers, particle board and synthetic wood
• marking out, cutting and shaping wood
• working from drawings and specifications to make furniture
• making fittings for boats, caravans and other items where fine detail is required
• assembling parts to form sections of furniture and completed articles
• fitting hinges, locks, catches, drawers and shelves
• making frames for chairs and couches
• may repair and refurbish furniture and antiques

Trades Recognition Authority is the skills assessment body that verifies the standing of those skills for all visa purposes

Here are the common visa pathways that Cabinet-maker graduates can pursue.

• Stay in Australia for 18 months.
• Travel, work or study during your stay in Australia
• Include members of your family
• Become eligible for skilled visas and pathways to permanent residency

To be eligible for this visa, you MUST be:

• be 35 years of age or under when you apply. *Exceptions apply
• be in Australia when you apply for this visa
• hold an eligible visa or have held a Student visa in the last 6 months
• qualify relevant to an occupation on the skilled occupation list
• have applied for a skills assessment in your nominated occupation on the skilled occupation list
• provide evidence of adequate health insurance for all applicants when you apply
• Provide evidence you applied for an Australian Federal Police check when you applied.
• provide evidence of the required level of English with your application.

2. Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482) – Core Skills Stream

The visa includes the Core Skills Stream, Specialist Skill Stream, and Labour Agreement Stream. With this visa, you can:

• work in Australia for up to 4 years 
• travel to and from Australia as many times as you want while the visa is valid
• if eligible, apply for permanent residence

To be eligible for this visa, you MUST be:

• be nominated to work in an occupation on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL)
• have at least 1 year of relevant work (full-time or 2 years part-time) experience in your nominated occupation or a related field
• have a relevant skills assessment 
• work only for your sponsor or associated entity 
• meet minimum standards of English language proficiency

Those who successfully acquire further stay visas can be eligible for Skilled Migration. This allows for Permanent Stay in Australia through the following visas:

Skilled Independent (subclass 189)

• workers with skills can live and work permanently anywhere in Australia
• You don’t need sponsors or nominators
• MUST be invited to apply
• MUST be under 45 years of age

Skilled Nominated (subclass 190)

• You must be nominated by the state or territory
• Must live and work in the nominating state or territory for at least two years
• Study, work, and stay in Australia permanently
• enrol in Australia's public health care scheme, Medicare
• sponsor your relatives to come to Australia
• travel to and from Australia for 5 years
• if eligible, become an Australian citizen

Check specific requirements on the Department of Home Affairs website. This page provides the latest details and eligibility criteria for all relevant visas.

Studyaway is your partner throughout your stay in Australia, and we will guide you every step of the way, from student visas to graduate, work, and permanent residency, through our team of experts.

Start Your Cabinet Making Journey with Studyaway!

Studying Cabinet-Making & Timber Technology in Australia offers strong job prospects and the opportunity to make a real difference. 

At Studyaway, we provide expert support to help you choose the right course, manage visa options, and navigate your career path. With our affordable packages, we can make your dream of studying in Australia a reality. 

Here are some further readings to support you:

• Choosing the Right Course to Study in Australia: A Guide for International Students
• Navigate to our course page, Cabinet Making and Timber Technology
• Top Course to Study in Australia 
• Student Visa Requirements