The trades industry is swiftly becoming one of the largest employers in the Newcastle region. This growth is encouraging Hunter workers to move away from mining and into trades, including Lorn father Daniel Cusick who turned to TAFE NSW Maitland to reskill as a plumber.
Daniel spent 13 years as an underground operator across Central Queensland, Western NSW, the Hunter and Wollongong. After the birth of his first child, he sought a more family-friendly profession and enrolled in a Certificate III in Plumbing.
At age 37, Daniel works as a second-year apprentice at Finley Thomas Plumbers in Warners Bay. His career change aligns with recent data from recruitment firm Robert Half indicating 56 per cent of Australian workers would consider changing jobs in 2026.
Daniel said he was not confident about the long-term future in local underground mines and wanted a trade for job security.
“I knew I’d take a pay cut in the short-term but I wanted a secure long-term career that wouldn’t be threatened by AI,” Daniel said.
“It’s been a great decision for me and my family.”
The transition comes as the industry recognises World Plumbing Day on Wednesday, 11 March 2026. The annual event highlights the role plumbing plays in public health and sanitation.
Daniel said the hands-on skills learned at TAFE NSW Maitland have provided a deeper grounding in the trade.
“Plumbing is made up of a lot of niche fields and TAFE NSW has given me insight into things I wouldn’t normally see on the job,” Daniel said.
“We don’t do much maintenance in my job but I’ve had that exposure to it at TAFE, which will make me a better tradesman.”
TAFE NSW Maitland Plumbing Head Teacher, Stephen Bird said a growing number of Hunter workers are making the switch to trades.
“More Hunter locals like Daniel are recognising the opportunity in plumbing where skills shortages are creating real pathways to secure work,” Stephen said.
“Our training ensures students are job-ready from day one.”
IMAGE | TAFE NSW has helped Lorn father Dan Cusick reskill from mining into plumbing.
