Perth is the most lucrative city in Australia for Refrigeration & Air Conditioning (RAC) technicians, according to a new study by job management software company, Fergus.
The study looked at where work was most in-demand and identified locations where technicians were likely to see stronger cash flow.
The data shows the strongest markets balance demand with profitability and stability.
Perth took the top spot with 119 jobs per business per year, double digit employment growth and fast seven-day payment times.
Sydney recorded the highest job volume at 251.5 jobs per business followed by Adelaide which had strong job growth but lower profitability.
Surprisingly, Melbourne ranked fourth driven by the fastest growth at 32.9 per cent signalling rising demand for HVACR services.
Further down the ACT offers higher value but fewer opportunities while Brisbane showed less consistent conditions.
While Hobart didn’t rank in the top three it stands out for profitability with the highest median income, proving that smaller markets can still deliver strong returns.
Fergus CEO, Mark Bartels, said overall the results aren’t surprising but shows that HVACR has its own dynamics which really can determine where tradies win.
“It’s not just about demand. The best markets balance installs, maintenance, and urgent callouts. That mix drives consistency of work, stronger margins, and faster cash flow, which is what matters day to day,” he said.
“Perth is a good example of that balance working well. There was steady demand, healthy margins, and tradies were paid quickly.
“Sydney shows strong demand too, but tighter margins and slower cash flow can make it a tougher market than it looks on the surface.”
Bartels said there are also pockets like Hobart that didn't rank high but underlying economics are strong.
“It’s a reminder that smaller markets can still be highly attractive if the fundamentals are right,” he said.
Bartels said the data proves success in HVACR comes down to more than just volume.
“It’s about pricing power, efficiency, and how quickly you turn work into cash,” he said.
“The bigger shift is that heating and cooling are no longer discretionary; it’s essential. Demand is only going one way.
“The real question now is whether the industry has the capacity, and the systems, to keep up.”
According to salary rankings for tradies by SEEK, RAC technicians topped the list for earnings in 2025.
Electricians came in a close second, followed by plumbers and crane operators.
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