Locksmith

A locksmith installs, repairs, and maintains locks, keys, and security systems on residential and commercial properties across Australia. They diagnose lock and access control problems, perform emergency call-outs to assist locked-out customers, and may specialise in security system installation or master key system design. The work involves both on-site visits to customer premises and workshop-based key cutting and lock servicing.

Install deadlocks, mortice locks, cylinder locks, and electronic access control systems on doors and windows to security standards. Repair faulty locks by replacing internal mechanisms, springs, pins, and tumblers using hand tools and bench equipment. Cut and copy keys by hand or using automated key cutting machines to match existing keys or blank specifications. Diagnose lock and key faults through visual inspection and functional testing to determine repair or replacement requirements. Respond to emergency call-outs to gain access to locked residential and commercial properties using appropriate techniques to minimise damage. Design and install master key systems that allow multiple keys to operate grouped locks on commercial and multi-unit properties. Fit security door closers, hinges, and strike plates to ensure locks function correctly and doors close and seal properly. Test electronic locks and card access systems for proper operation and reprogram or reset access credentials as required.

The standard entry pathway requires a Certificate IV or Certificate III with at least two years of on-the-job training (ABS skill level 3). Specific qualification requirements vary by employer and state. Some employers may accept equivalent experience. Check yourcareer.gov.au for available courses and dewr.gov.au/skills-reform/free-tafe for subsidised training options.

Emergency call-outs mean unpredictable hours including nights, weekends, and holidays, which cuts into personal life. The work is also physically demanding on your hands and back. Pay stays modest even with experience unless you build your own business, and you'll face competition from DIY lock picks and online key cutting services that eat into work volume.

In reality, work concentrates in major cities where there's steady residential and commercial demand. Regional areas have fewer opportunities. Most locksmiths are self-employed or work for small local businesses rather than large chains, so jobs depend on local population density and building activity.

Published for ANZSCO unit group 3233, the wider group this job sits in, not for this job on its own.

This is the median for full-time employees who are not managers and are paid at the adult rate, before tax and salary sacrifice. It is a guide to what the work pays, not a wage rate.

Source: ABS Survey of Employee Earnings and Hours, May 2025, customised report.

• Accurise gunscore
• Active Listeningcore
• Adjust cut sizescore
• Attention to Detailcore
• Calculate quotations for security devices servicescore
• Carry out inventory planningcore
• Casting processescore
• Complaint Handlingcore
• Customer Needs Assessmentcore
• Invoicing and Billing Administrationcore
• Policy and Procedure Adherencecore
• Problem Solvingcore
• Regulatory and Legislative Awarenesscore
• Risk Identificationcore
• Time Management and Prioritisationcore
• Verbal Communicationcore
• Verification and Authenticationcore
• Workload Self-Managementcore
• Adaptability and Flexibility
• Appointment Scheduling
• Basic Arithmetic and Numerical Accuracy
• Continuous Learning and Upskilling
• Incident Reporting
• Negotiation
• Record Management
• Supplier Communication
• Written Communication

• ABS OSCA 2024, occupation definition and task statements
• ABS Survey of Employee Earnings and Hours, May 2025, customised report.
• ABS, 2021 Census of Population and Housing based on usual place of residence (Custom Report). OSCA Experimental Estimates.

Role data is drawn from official Australian Government sources, and each figure names where it comes from. Where a role is not in the ABS classification, the page shows no government figures for it. Data may not reflect every local variation.

Where our numbers come from.

Last updated: 30 October 2026