As of November 2023, over 27,700 plumbers were employed in New South Wales1. The employment of plumbers in Australia is projected to grow by 3% between May 2023 and May 20281, in line with industry growth around the country.
The median weekly earnings for plumbers in NSW before tax is $1,4191.
Plumbing licence requirements in NSW
In New South Wales (NSW), Australia, individuals must obtain the appropriate licence or certificate to legally perform plumbing, draining, and gas fitting work. The types of licences and their requirements are outlined by NSW Fair Trading.
New South Wales Plumbing insurance requirements
Plumbers in NSW must adhere to specific insurance requirements to operate legally and protect their businesses.
For residential building projects exceeding $20,000 (inclusive of GST), principal contractors are required to obtain insurance. This requirement provides compensation to homeowners for incomplete or defective work in cases where the contractor cannot fulfill their obligations due to insolvency, death, disappearance, or license suspension.
Only the principal contractor can secure this insurance; subcontractors or employees cannot fulfill this obligation on behalf of the principal contractor.
What types of insurance do NSW plumbers consider?
Public Liability insurance
NSW plumbers may be required to have Public Liability insurance to work with specific clients and enter job worksites. It helps protect against third-party property damage and injury claims. BizCover offers NSW plumbers flexible cover options from $5 million to $20 million.
Professional Indemnity insurance
Plumbers in NSW who provide design, consulting or certification services may consider Professional Indemnity cover to financially protect against negligence claims and other professional errors in their work.
Portable Equipment insurance
Many plumbers choose to protect their tools and other essential equipment. Portable Equipment insurance generally covers tool theft, damage or loss.
Personal Accident & Illness insurance
Workers’ compensation cover may not be available to self-employed and sole trader plumbers. Personal Accident & Illness insurance could help fill this cover gap, by replacing lost income while you recover from a serious injury or illness.
How much does plumber insurance cost in NSW?
On overage, plumbers in New South Wales pay $124 per month* for their insurance with BizCover. However, premiums vary based on factors like the services provided, project size, and cover limits.
Comparing quotes from different insurers with BizCover is an easy way to understand how much you’ll pay for plumbing insurance.
1. NSW Government, Plumbers ANZSCO 3341, accessed 17 April 2025
*Customer Average Monthly Payment Report is based on 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024 and presented as a guide only. It may not reflect pricing for your particular business, as individual criteria will apply.
This information is general only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. It should not be relied upon as advice. As with any insurance, cover will be subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions contained in the PDS or policy wording.
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