1.
Apply for your White Card
A White Card is mandatory for anyone who wants to carry out construction work in Australia and can often be a requirement when applying for construction-related apprenticeships.
James Hardie Career Pathways Program
At James Hardie, we’re committed to Building a Better Future For All™ — and that means supporting young people as they step into meaningful careers that will help shape the homes and communities of tomorrow.
A career in carpentry offers more than just a job, it’s a practical, accessible pathway to a future filled with opportunity. Apprentices start earning from day one, while enjoying a balanced work schedule. With progression options from apprentice to builder or business owner, trades can offer long-term stability without the burden of university debt.
Career Case Study: J'maine Hopgood
What trade qualifications have you studied and what did you enjoy about your training?
I have completed a Certificate III in Carpentry. I enjoyed learning practical skills and seeing the results of my work at the end of the day. There is a real sense of satisfaction in building something with your own hands and I liked the challenge of learning new skills and improving every day.
Why do you think it's important to have a trade while also pursuing an NRL career?
As professional athletes, it's important to have a backup plan. The odds of becoming an NRL player are actually quite small, so it's smart to have something to fall back on. A trade also teaches you valuable life skills, including people skills and a strong work ethic.
What would you say to a young person considering a trade today?
No one can take a trade away from you. It's a profession that will always be needed. Pick something you enjoy or something you're naturally good at. There are so many different trade options available, so understand your strengths and weaknesses and talk to people about what might be the best fit for you.
FIRST STEPS
2.
Apprenticeship Enrolment
With support provided by Housing Industry Australia
Once you’ve obtained a White Card, the next step is to often enroll in a TAFE pre-apprenticeship course or immediately transition into an apprenticeship if you have already secured a position with an employer, often referred to as direct indenture.
3.
Complete Formal Training
Depending on your trade, you may need to complete a Certificate III or IV at TAFE or another Registered Training Organisation. Employment is required prior to completing formal training; therefore your host employer is responsible for ensuring you complete your qualification requirements.
GROUP
TRAINING
ORGANISATIONS
A Group Training Organisation, such as The Housing Industry Association (HIA) offer guidance and support throughout the entirety of the journey, helping you navigate from entry-level to fully qualified tradesperson.
The HIA become the legal employer of an apprentice and are therefore responsible for finding employment with a host business and ensuring the apprenticeship or traineeship is completed.
Click below to understand how the HIA Apprenticeship Program can support you on your journey to becoming a qualified tradesperson.
Career Case Study: Araz Nanva
What trade qualifications have you studied and why did you pursue a trade?
I completed a Certificate III in Carpentry and am currently studying a Bachelor of Construction Management at Western Sydney University's Parramatta campus. My long-term goal is to become a licensed builder and build homes of my own. To become a builder, you need a trade qualification. So pursuing carpentry was the first step towards that goal.
Why do you think it's important to have a trade while also pursuing an NRL career?
Having a Plan B is always important. Rugby League is a high impact sport, and you never know how long your career will last, so it is important to have another pathway and future career option outside of football.
What would you say to a young person considering a trade today?
If it's something you enjoy, go for it. Everyone is going to need a tradie at some point in their life. Technology and Artificial Intelligence can do a lot of things, but they can't build a house. A trade provides valuable skills that will always be in demand.