Vehicle Painter Jobs in Australia vs the UK – Which Country Offers More?

26.05.2025

6 mins to read

Dreaming of a better job as a vehicle painter? Wondering if Australia or the UK is the better place to build your future?

Whether you’re already in the trade or just starting out, choosing where to work as a vehicle painter can have a huge impact on your income, career growth, and everyday life. Australia and the United Kingdom are both popular destinations for skilled workers – but which one offers more for painters like you?

In this article, we compare two attractive markets: the UK and Australia. From training and certification to salaries, working conditions, job demand, and cost of living, we break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

1. Training and certification requirements for vehicle painter

Work in UK – skills assessment

Becoming a vehicle painter in the UK usually involves completing an apprenticeship or earning an NVQ Level 2 or 3 qualification in vehicle refinishing or automotive body repair. The applicants follow structured pathways that consist of classroom-based instruction as well as on-the-job training at The Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education, which is responsible for skills training in the UK and the creation of occupational standards.

Work in Australia – skills assessment

In Australia, Technical and Further Education (TAFE) institutions or Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) regulated by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) are responsible for the vehicle painter training and qualification standards. To become a vehicle painter, one is usually required to complete a Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology (AUR32420).

Read more about visa application, process & requirements here: link

2. Salary expectations for spray painter

Knowing job requirements, let us now take a closer look at the remuneration this profession can bring. In the UK, vehicle painters earn between £23,000 and £45,000 per year, depending on their experience and qualifications.

Median weekly earnings of the Australian vehicle painters equals AUD $1,660 before tax, translating to approximately AUD $86,320 annually and between AUD $40 and AUD $50 per hour.

Vehicle painter hourly wage:

	UK	Australia
Hourly wage	~20.50 £ ($42.23)	$40 – $50 (£20.80–£26.00)

Australian vehicle painters enjoy higher median pay overall. However, it is worth noting that the polishers or preppers in the UK are separate professions, unlike in Australia. Therefore, the occupation of a vehicle painter covers plenty more responsibilities in Australia than in the UK.

3. Job market demand in Australia vs UK

When it comes to the job demand, the UK has a stable market with moderate demand for skilled vehicle painters. To be considered a successful candidate, one should have prior experience, NVQ certifications, or apprenticeships. English urban areas have especially high job availability when it comes to vehicle painting positions.

Australia also shows a stable demand for vehicle painters. There are around 9,700 vehicle painters nationwide, most of whom are located in urban centres. According to the government, the essential nature of vehicle maintenance will drive a continued market demand.

4. Cost of living – is it worth emigrating?

Salary is an important factor in choosing a profession and the place of living. However, the local costs of living are crucial, as are the earnings.

Housing is generally more affordable in regional Australia, though the UK still provides cost-effective options outside of major city centres. When it comes to groceries and utilities, overall expenses tend to be quite similar, though specific costs may vary depending on location and lifestyle. Public transport is often cheaper in Australia, with some regions even offering free travel, whereas London remains one of the most expensive networks in

the world. Both countries offer strong healthcare systems, but Australia relies more on private insurance and co-payments, while the NHS remains largely free at the point of use albeit with longer waiting times.

For a deeper dive into the topic read our article: link

Ultimately, the decision depends on what you value more. If universal access, stability, and predictability are important to you, the UK may be a better fit. If you’re drawn to sunshine, outdoor living, and are willing to invest in faster healthcare, Australia might be the right choice. Living in Australia compared to the UK involves different trade-offs. Some things are more expensive than in the UK, while others offer better value, particularly in regional areas. It all comes down to the lifestyle you want to lead and how you envision your everyday life beyond the job itself.

5. Quality of life

UK healthcare system

A strong healthcare system (NHS), structured career pathways, and well-regulated labour rights are among the main benefits of working as vehicle painters in the UK. The workers can expect paid holiday leave, 40-hour work weeks, and reliable pension schemes as part of their employment.

Australia healthcare system

Australia offers high living standards, a comprehensive healthcare system, and reliable labour rights. Moreover, the Fair Work Ombudsman offers awards such as the Vehicle Repair, Services and Retail Award, which covers minimum pay rates, overtime, and working conditions.

6. Summary on vehicle painter jobs in Australia & UK

Both the UK and Australia provide clear career paths for vehicle painters. The countries offer comprehensive training programs and fair regulations. Australia provides slightly higher average salaries. However, the cost-of-living balances the differences in remuneration.

On the other hand, the UK offers well-established occupational routes and strong worker protections. Australia’s immigration system may provide more direct access than the United Kingdom’s. Which country should one choose to develop their vehicle painting career in?

The choice boils down to individual preferences regarding lifestyle, climate, and long-term career goals.

Sources:

https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/job-profiles/paint-sprayer

https://www.jobsandskills.gov.au/data/occupation-and-industry-profiles/occupations/3243-vehicle-painters

https://www.jobsandskills.gov.au

https://www.glassdoor.co.uk/Salaries/london-painter-salary-SRCH_IL.0%2C6_IM1035_KO7%2C14.htm

https://ifamagazine.com/study-reveals-the-most-expensive-uk-cities-to-raise-a-family-in-2024/

https://eu.gradstarglobal.com/blog/cost%20of%20living%20comparison%20by%20city

https://uk.talent.com/salary?job=painter

https://ifamagazine.com/study-reveals-the-most-expensive-uk-cities-to-raise-a-family-in-2024/

https://www.gradstarglobal.com/blog/cost%20of%20living%20comparison%20by%20city

https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Sydney