15/06/2026
🔐 While locksmithing is facing a workforce shortage across Australia, Mount Isa locksmith Shaine Hunter said he's recently seen a surprising increase in interest, with several new apprentices joining the trade.
Shane said the industry has struggled for years to attract apprentices, with many people unaware locksmithing is even a career option.
"In the last 20-odd years, it has been a real struggle," he said. "It's not mentioned in schools. People don't really think about locksmithing until they actually need a locksmith."
📈 Despite the broader shortage, Shaine said he's recently been "absolutely inundated" with resumes and has taken on three first-year apprentices.
He said modern locksmithing extends far beyond cutting keys, with work spanning homes, businesses, vehicles, mine sites, electronic access systems and specialist security technology.
"The new way everyone's going at the moment is electronics," he said. "You always need new machinery and software updates just to try and cater for everyone."
👷 Industry groups say thousands more locksmiths are needed across Australia, with subsidised training and financial incentives available for apprentices.
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