Being a locksmith can be a very rewarding trade both personally and business wise.  You are able to help people when they need it and you can gain great satisfaction in knowing that you are making people’s homes and businesses secure.  If you are thinking about becoming a locksmith, here’s what you need to know.

What is a Locksmith?

A locksmith can be defined as a person that is responsible for making, maintaining, and installing security devices to ensure that a home or premises is secure.  They do not only fit locks or duplicate keys; they also let you into your home if you have lost or forgotten your keys, install and maintain alarm systems, install closed circuit cameras and much more.  A locksmith is a highly skilled trade and you will learn skills in carpentry, drilling, precision metal work, welding, and computer programs.

Training to Become a Locksmith

If you wish to become a qualified locksmith, then you will have to gain a locksmith apprenticeship. You can do this by looking through advertisements, contacting Centrelink, or by contacting locksmiths directly.  Once you have found a willing employer, the employer will then contact an Australian Apprenticeship Centre in order to organise the necessary agreements and training components.

 The apprenticeship comprises on the job training from a fully qualified locksmith as well as off the job training which is usually completed through a local TAFE.  The locksmith apprenticeship lasts for four years.  The certification that you gain is given different names depending on which state you have done your training in.  For example, in NSW

Before you can gain an apprenticeship, however, you will need to obtain a Police Clearance. This assures the training provider and client that you are trustworthy.  You will also need to have your fingerprints recorded, so that you can be eliminated in the event of a client’s home being burgled or broken into.

Incentives for Becoming a Locksmith

If you are thinking about becoming a locksmith, you may be interested to learn that there is a range of support services and incentives available to you.  These include:

• Training vouchers that are valued at up to $500 and available to first and second year apprentices.
• An apprentice wage top up for apprentices who are under 30 when they start their apprenticeship and are in their first or second year of a Certificate III or IV course. These are tax free payments of $2,000 given in $500 instalments.
• A Tool Allowance of $800.
• Financial support for students of 30 or more.
• Living away from home allowance.
  

Rural and regional incentives.
Many of these benefits are available due to the fact that there is a national skills shortage in the locksmith trade.