Which trade fits your job?

Common jobs and where to begin

• Leaking tap, blocked drain or hot-water problem: start by describing the plumbing symptoms and checking the appropriate plumbing credentials.
• Hardwired light, power point or suspected electrical fault: seek a Registered Electrical Contractor. Never handle exposed or dangerous wiring.
• Flat-pack assembly, hinges or small unregulated maintenance: general handyman work may be appropriate.
• Timber framing, decking or door replacement: ask a carpenter about the scope and check registration and permit requirements for structural work.

What does a sparky, chippy or brickie mean?

In everyday Australian trade slang, a sparky means an electrician, a chippy means a carpenter and a brickie means a bricklayer. You may also see gyprocker used for plasterboard work or roofie used informally for roofing work. Search terms and nicknames help people describe work, but licences and registrations must still be checked by the precise activity involved.

Concreters commonly handle paths, driveways and slabs. Some concreting repairs can be assessed promptly; excavation, pours and curing generally need advance planning. We do not promise same-day completion of concrete work.

Prepare comparable quotes

Include the suburb, affected area, approximate dimensions and preferred timing. Ask whether a price includes call-out charges, parts, testing, disposal, GST and required certificates. A cheap initial estimate may not include the same work as another.

For time-sensitive needs, consult our independent Melbourne emergency-trades directory and check provider availability directly.

Our job-posting guide has examples; the hiring checklist covers credentials and scope.

What to do in an emergency

For smoke, sparking equipment, serious gas concerns or major immediate hazards, contact appropriate emergency services or utilities. Do not wait for a job listing response. TradieToday cannot guarantee that a worker is available immediately.