Plasterers

Plasterers apply and fix plasterboard partitions, suspended ceilings, fire rating systems, acoustic tiles, and composite wall linings to buildings, and apply decorative and protective coverings of plaster, cement and similar materials to the interiors and exteriors of structures.

Occupations in this field typically require a Certificate III qualification including at least two years on-the-job training or a Certificate IV qualification.

At least three years of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualifications listed above. In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.

Registration or licensing may be required.

Tasks Include:

• determining plasterboard layout, and installing insulation and vapour barriers
• measuring, marking and cutting plasterboard, lifting and positioning panels, and securing them to walls, ceilings and battens
• preparing corner beads and securing them in position
• fixing pre-cast cornices, panel mouldings, ceiling centres and other plaster fittings
• covering joins and nail holes with wet plaster and sealing compounds, and smoothing them using wet brushes and sand paper
• mixing and applying coats of plaster, cement and render to structures using trowels, and levelling and smoothing coats to uniform thickness
• plumbing and straightening corners, angles and wall and ceiling surfaces
• creating decorative textures in finishing coats
• applying and finishing acoustic, insulating and fireproofing materials bonded with plaster, plastic cement and similar materials

Occupations:

• Fibrous Plasterer 
• Solid Plasterer

Fibrous Plasterer

Applies and fixes plasterboard partitions, suspended ceilings, fire rating systems, acoustic tiles, and composite wall linings to buildings. Registration or licensing may be required.

Specialisation:

• Dry Wall Plasterer

Solid Plasterer

Applies decorative and protective coverings of plaster, cement and similar materials to the interiors and exteriors of structures. Registration or licensing may be required.