Factory Jobs in Australia: Roles, Skills & Industries

Introduction to Factory Jobs in Australia

Australia’s manufacturing and production sector remains one of the most critical contributors to national employment. Industries like FMCG, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy continue to demand both skilled and semi-skilled workers. If you’re considering factory jobs in Australia, now is a great time to explore roles that offer good wages, steady hours, and real career progression.

Whether you’re a school leaver, migrant, tradesperson, or someone looking for stable shift work, the factory sector presents endless opportunities. Many roles don’t require degrees and allow for on-the-job training, making them accessible even for beginners.

Quick Overview of the Factory Industry

The Growing Demand for Factory Jobs in Australia

Australia’s factory industry has experienced major transformations over the last 20 years.. While traditional sectors like automotive have declined, others like food manufacturing, renewable energy, and medical equipment production have surged.

• Queensland and Western Australia have seen a rise in factory roles in mining support and food logistics.
  
• Melbourne and Sydney remain key hubs for packaging, electronics, and pharmaceuticals.
  
• Smart manufacturing and automation are transforming factory floors, increasing demand for workers who are adaptable and tech-literate.
  

These shifts ensure that factory jobs in Australia will remain in high demand for years to come.

Popular Types of Factory Jobs in Australia

Factory Hand

This is often the entry-level position for new workers. Duties include:

• Cleaning work areas
  
• Loading/unloading materials
  
• Supporting machine operators
  
• Sorting products
  

No experience is required, and training is often provided. It’s the perfect entry into factory jobs in Australia.

Machine Operator

A key role in many factories, machine operators:

• Set up and monitor production equipment
  
• Perform routine checks and adjustments
  
• Report any malfunctions
  
• Ensure consistent product output
  

Some mechanical knowledge is helpful, and many roles offer structured on-the-job training in Australia.

Forklift Operator

A licensed forklift driver is vital for internal logistics. Responsibilities include:

• Transporting materials
  
• Assisting with loading/unloading
  
• Ensuring warehouse safety
  

A WorkSafe forklift license is required for this role. Forklift drivers are in especially high demand in factory jobs in Australia related to packaging and logistics.

Assembly Line Worker

In fast-paced production environments, assembly workers handle:

• Product assembly and testing
  
• Quality checks
  
• Sorting and packing
  

These jobs require good hand-eye coordination and attention to detail. Common in electronics, furniture, and packaging plants.

Packaging Technician

A packaging technician ensures products are securely wrapped, labeled, and ready for delivery. Many of these roles use automated machinery and require light technical skills.

Advanced and Technical Factory Jobs

Quality Control Inspector

Inspectors monitor product quality and ensure standards are met. They:

• Examine production output
  
• Report defects or inconsistencies
  
• Maintain documentation for audits
  

This role is common in pharmaceuticals, electronics, and medical devices.

Maintenance Technician

Skilled tradespeople play a key role in machine maintenance. They::

• Troubleshoot malfunctions
  
• Perform repairs
  
• Ensure minimal production downtime
  

Mechanical or electrical certifications are typically required. These roles rank among the best-paying factory positions in Australia.

Production Planner

More administrative in nature, planners coordinate:

• Material orders
  
• Production timelines
  
• Staffing requirements
  

They work closely with logistics teams and factory supervisors.

Core Skills Needed for Factory Jobs in Australia

While technical roles require specialized knowledge, most positions are accessible if you have the right attitude and essential skills:

• Physical stamina: You’ll often be standing or lifting for hours
  
• Attention to detail: Critical for product quality and safety
  
• Teamwork: Factories rely on synchronized teams
  
• Reliability: Showing up on time is non-negotiable
  
• Problem-solving: Machines break—can you help fix them?
  
• Digital skills: Many factories now use touchscreens, dashboards, and scanning devices
  

Developing these skills will help you progress faster in factory jobs in Australia.

Useful Certifications for Factory Work

To boost your employability and income potential, consider getting certified:

• Forklift License (essential for many warehouse roles)
  
• Certificate III in Manufacturing, Engineering, or Logistics
  
• WHS (Workplace Health and Safety) training
  
• White Card (required for construction-linked factory work)
  
• First Aid Certificate
  
• Trade Apprenticeship (electrical, mechanical, metalwork)
  

These can often be gained while working, through employer-sponsored programs or TAFE courses.

What Is It Like to Work in Australian Factories?

Typical Work Environment

• Fast-paced and high-output
  
• Physically demanding
  
• May be noisy or temperature-controlled (freezers, ovens)
  
• Cleanliness and safety are critical
  
• PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) must be worn
  

Shift Types

• Morning, afternoon, night, or rotating shifts
  
• 8 to 12-hour shifts depending on the role
  
• Some sites run 24/7
  
• Night and weekend shifts attract shift loadings (extra pay)
  

If you enjoy hands-on work and routine, factory jobs can be highly rewarding.

Pay Rates for Factory Jobs in Australia

Factory salaries depend on experience, location, and job type. Below is a general guide:

Additional benefits often include:

• Superannuation (retirement savings)
  
• Paid overtime
  
• Holiday and sick leave
  
• Shift penalties (15–30% loading for weekends/nights)
  

Many factory jobs in Australia offer stable income and perks you won’t find in casual hospitality or gig work.

Temporary vs Permanent Factory Jobs in Australia

Both temporary and permanent roles are common in the factory sector. Temporary positions are ideal for workers seeking flexible schedules, seasonal employment, or casual income. These are often filled through labour hire companies and require little experience.

Permanent factory jobs provide:

• Stable income
  
• Leave entitlements
  
• Superannuation contributions
  
• Clear career progression
  

Many employers use temporary work as a trial phase before offering full-time employment. For those serious about building a long-term career in factory jobs in Australia, permanent positions are the goal.

Career Growth and Progression Opportunities

One of the strengths of working in this industry is its potential for upward mobility. Workers often start in entry-level roles and, with time and training, move into supervisory or technical positions.

Example Progression Path:

• Factory Hand → Machine Operator → Shift Leader → Production Manager
  
• Picker/Packer → Inventory Clerk → Logistics Coordinator
  
• Maintenance Assistant → Technician → Site Engineer
  

Companies also invest in upskilling programs such as forklift training, WHS certificates, and leadership development, all of which support long-term career growth in factory jobs in Australia.

Smart Manufacturing and Digital Technologies

Modern factories are no longer just physical spaces – they are becoming digitally enabled environments. Employers seek individuals who can adapt to:

• Automation tools
  
• Robotic arms and conveyor belts
  
• AI for quality assurance
  
• Digital dashboards to monitor output
  
• Barcode scanning systems
  

This shift has created a demand for digitally literate factory workers who can read instructions on screens, log production data, and troubleshoot simple tech errors. Even entry-level roles now include digital components, especially in smart factory jobs in Australia.

Green Manufacturing and Sustainability in Factories

Australia is seeing an industrial shift toward sustainable manufacturing. Many factories now implement:

• Solar-powered systems
  
• Low-emission equipment
  
• Recycling initiatives
  
• Biodegradable packaging
  
• Water and energy efficiency protocols
  

This growing trend opens the door for eco-conscious job seekers to engage in green factory jobs in Australia, especially in industries like food processing, textiles, and electronics.

Factory Jobs for Women in Australia

Women play a growing role in Australia’s manufacturing sector. Employers are committed to gender diversity and offer roles that are supportive, flexible, and equitable.

Common Roles for Female Workers:

• Packaging Assistant
  
• Quality Control Specialist
  
• Process Worker
  
• Warehouse Administrator
  

Many factories offer light-duty shifts, maternity-friendly hours, and pathways for women to enter supervisory positions. Programs exist to encourage more women to take up factory jobs in Australia, particularly in regional locations.

Factory Jobs for Migrants and Visa Holders

Australia offers many work opportunities for migrants, international students, and WHV (Working Holiday Visa) holders. With a focus on skill shortages in regional areas, factory jobs in Australia are among the most accessible.

Tips for Migrants and Visa Holders:

• Apply through labour hire firms experienced in migrant recruitment
  
• Ensure your visa permits factory work (e.g. TSS, WHV)
  
• Highlight availability, reliability, and basic English skills
  
• Target high-demand areas: regional WA, QLD, and SA
  

Some employers offer visa sponsorship, especially in food processing, meatworks, and packaging industries.

Health and Safety Requirements in Australian Factories

Workplace safety is non-negotiable. Employers must comply with WHS (Work Health and Safety) standards to protect employees.

Key Safety Practices:

• Mandatory use of PPE (gloves, goggles, safety boots)
  
• Safety inductions for all new hires
  
• Proper lifting techniques and manual handling training
  
• Reporting procedures for hazards and injuries
  
• Clear evacuation and emergency protocols
  

Following these standards not only keeps you safe–it builds your reputation as a reliable, professional factory worker.

Best Cities and Regions for Factory Jobs in Australia

Some areas consistently rank as top locations for manufacturing work:

Major Metro Cities:

• Melbourne – Logistics, food packaging, electronics
  
• Sydney – Pharmaceuticals, construction products, machinery
  
• Brisbane – Timber, beverages, chemicals
  

Regional Growth Zones:

• Toowoomba, QLD – Meat and food processing
  
• Geraldton, WA – Mining support and heavy manufacturing
  
• Murray Bridge, SA – Agriculture and packaging
  

Many of these regions offer bonuses, accommodation, or relocation support to attract factory workers.

Factory Worker Salary in Australia

Factory workers in Australia earn between $50,000 and $90,000 per year, depending on experience, role, and location. Entry-level positions like factory hand or picker start at $24–$30 per hour, while experienced technicians and supervisors can earn over $40 per hour, especially with overtime or night shifts.

High Demand Jobs in Australia

Jobs in logistics, food manufacturing, health, renewable energy, and construction-related sectors are currently in high demand. Within manufacturing, roles such as forklift drivers, machine operators, maintenance technicians, and packaging staff are especially sought after. This makes factory jobs in Australia a reliable option for consistent employment.

Is $50 Per Hour a Good Wage in Australia?

Yes, $50/hour is well above the national average wage. It equates to approximately $104,000 per year (before tax) for full-time work. This rate is often seen in technical factory jobs like maintenance engineering, automation tech, or specialist welding, and is considered an excellent wage in both metro and regional areas.

Jobs That Earn $500,000 in Australia

Only a small percentage of Australians earn over $500,000 per year, usually in sectors like:

• Senior corporate executives (CEOs, CFOs)
  
• Top surgeons and medical specialists
  
• Big law firm partners
  
• Mining executives
  
• Entrepreneurs and tech founders
  

These are highly specialised careers requiring decades of experience or business ownership. While factory jobs in Australia typically don’t reach these levels, they offer great middle-income stability with strong growth prospects.

Final Thoughts

Factory jobs in Australia remain one of the most accessible and practical career paths for workers of all backgrounds. With steady demand across cities and regional hubs, workers can secure income, gain transferable skills, and grow their careers across industries.

From entry-level packing jobs to high-tech manufacturing and logistics coordination, the factory sector is evolving – and it’s hiring. Whether you’re local, a migrant, or just starting your career, now is the time to explore opportunities in Australia’s manufacturing economy.

FAQs 

Do factory jobs require previous experience?

No. Many factory jobs in Australia offer on-the-job training, especially for roles like packer, factory hand, and warehouse assistant. Experience helps but is not essential.

Can students work in factory jobs?

Yes, part-time or casual factory jobs suit international and domestic students, particularly in evening or weekend shifts.

Do I need a license or certificate?

Some roles (like forklift driver or machine operator) require a WorkSafe license or TAFE certification, but many entry-level roles do not.

Are factory jobs good for long-term careers?

Absolutely. With consistent work, upskilling, and training, you can progress to supervisory or technical roles within 2–5 years.

How can I apply for a factory job?

Apply through job boards (Seek, Indeed, Jora), labour hire agencies, or company websites. A clear, well-structured resume combined with knowledge of WHS standards can improve your job prospects.