How to Become a Fitter and Turner in Australia

Jump into an apprenticeship that can give you the skills to handle repair, fitting and assembly of different plant machinery.

If you’re ready to craft an exciting career with a range of industry prospects, then look no further than a Fitter and Turner Apprenticeship.

Undertake a Fitter and Turner Apprenticeship

You can gain the necessary skills and qualifications to attain a fitting and turning apprenticeship through two main paths. You can complete your training through an employer directly or with the assistance of a Group Training Organisation (GTO), like MIGAS Apprentices & Trainees.

A GTO is a great option to ensure you are set up in the best environment for completing your chosen apprenticeship, with ongoing support and mentorship.

With an Australian Apprenticeship, you'll learn hands-on skills in fitting and turning and gain a nationally accredited qualification.

What’s Involved in a Fitter and Turner Apprenticeship

The fitting and turning trade involves learning key skills that allow you to complete the complex fabrication and assembly of mechanical parts. 

These are some of the tasks you might take on as a fitter and turner:

• Reading diagrams and drawings, analysing specifications and plans to determine material usage and operational methods
• Welding, cutting, and grinding of various materials
• Fabricating parts and undertaking assembly
• Operating machinery such as welding plants, lathes and mills
• Completing machinery diagnostics and repairs

Fitter and Turner Apprenticeship Snapshot

Duration: A Fitter and Turner apprenticeship typically takes 4 years to complete.

• At the end of your apprenticeship, you will have attained the practical skills and knowledge to achieve the MEM30219 Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade
• A typical full-time working week is 38 hours of paid work
• Earning capacity increases greatly once a Fitter and Turner Apprenticeship is completed due to high demand in various areas

Fitter and Turner Apprentice Wages

Example wages for a fitter and turner apprentice in 1st to 4th year as of 1 July 2024:

• Under 17 years of age: $516.15 to $908.42 per week
• 17 to 20 years of age: $567.77 to $949.20 per week
• Over 21 years of age: $825.84 to $949.20 per week

You may also be eligible for some Modern Award inclusions and benefits on a host-by-host benefit. Use these numbers as a guide only as some conditions may alter them.

Fitter and Turner Apprenticeships are on the Government's Australian Apprenticeships Priority List, and eligible apprentices can receive additional support payments. 

Get Started in a Fitter and Turner Apprenticeship

Become one of Australia’s most in-demand skilled professionals and start your Fitter and Turner Apprenticeship with MIGAS Apprentices & Trainees today!

Visit our Jobs Board to find a role that suits you, including a range of Engineering Apprenticeships.