How to become a Locksmith

Installs and maintains locks and related security devices and systems.

Main tasks

• Inspects and assesses security requirements of premises
• Installs locks, deadbolts and other security devices on doors, windows and other entry points
• Repairs and maintains locks and security systems
• Cuts and duplicates keys
• Changes lock combinations and codes
• Installs and maintains electronic security systems, such as alarms and access control systems
• Provides advice and recommendations to clients on security measures
• Responds to emergency lockouts and provides lockout services

Ways in

• Apprenticeship: Certificate III in Locksmithing. Trade occupations are usually entered through an apprenticeship: paid work plus this qualification, typically 3 to 4 years.
• TAFE and VET: Certificate III in Locksmithing (MEM30819)
• Licence or registration: Registration or licensing is required.

Pay · Outlook · AI and this job

• Typical full-time pay: $79,924 a year
• About 8,300 people work in this job group now, and about 8,900 are projected by 2035. (+8%)
• AI is more likely to help with parts of this job than to do it. Jobs and Skills Australia rates its automation exposure as low.

Related jobs

• Engraver
• Watch and Clock Maker and Repairer
• Engineering Patternmaker
• Gunsmith
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Questions people ask

How do I become a Locksmith?

Ways in include: Certificate III in Locksmithing; Certificate III in Locksmithing.

How much does a Locksmith earn in Australia?

Median full-time pay is $79,924 a year (Jobs and Skills Australia).

Is a Locksmith a growing career in Australia?

Yes. Employment is projected to grow 8% by 2035, from about 8,300 to about 8,900 people (Jobs and Skills Australia).

Do you need a degree to become a Locksmith?

Usually not. Only 4% of people in this job hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Ways in include: Certificate III in Locksmithing; Certificate III in Locksmithing.

Will AI change the work of a Locksmith?

AI is more likely to help with parts of this job than to do it. Jobs and Skills Australia rates its automation exposure as low.

Sources

• Jobs and Skills Australia: Occupation data (ANZSCO), from ABS Labour Force and Census (February 2026), CC BY 4.0, retrieved 2026-10-04
• Jobs and Skills Australia: Generative AI Capacity Study, interactive table data (September 2025), CC BY 4.0, retrieved 2026-10-04
• Jobs and Skills Australia: Employment Projections (Victoria University) (May 2025 to May 2035), CC BY 4.0, retrieved 2026-10-04
• Australian Taxation Office: Taxation Statistics, Individuals Table 15A (2023-24), CC BY 2.5 AU, retrieved 2026-10-04

Updated 2026-10-04