Essential, Undervalued, and Overdue for Recognition

Essential, Undervalued, and Overdue for Recognition’ – New Research Reveals Aussies Backing Tradies Ahead of National Tradie Day

Australians overwhelmingly believe tradies deserve greater recognition and support than they are currently receiving, according to new research commissioned by Kennards Hire ahead of National Tradie Day 2025.The findings show that 93% of Australians feel tradies don’t get the recognition they deserve, while 96% believe tradies should be considered essential workers, on par with nurses and teachers. Similarly, 90% of Aussies say they would support more initiatives that highlight the contribution of tradies to Australia and their local communities.

Despite this support, Australia continues to face a skills shortage in critical trades, with their work crucial to building homes, maintaining infrastructure and developing thriving communities.

“Tradies are the unsung heroes of Australia and New Zealand, keeping our homes safe, our infrastructure strong, and our businesses running. Our research confirms that this essential collection of skilled workers is heavily relied on, yet too often, their contributions don’t receive the recognition and support they deserve,” said Nathan Venables, Kennards Hire Chief Operations Officer.

“At a time when skills shortages are being felt across the country, it’s never been more important to celebrate and support tradies. This year’s National Tradie Day provides the perfect opportunity to celebrate them genuinely and shine a spotlight on the incredible work they do and the value they provide.”
The research also highlights just how integral tradies are to daily life, finding that:

• Nearly 73% of Australians have relied on a tradie to help with a job at short notice
• More than 63% say they’ve avoided a costly mistake thanks to the skills or advice of a tradie
• 88% of Australians believe that knowing a tradie provides additional peace of mind should something go wrong.

In recognition of their contribution, and ahead of the official National Tradie Day on 19 September, Kennards Hire is celebrating tradies of all disciplines with an on-site activation across Sydney (NSW) and Auckland (New Zealand) on Thursday 18 September. Kennards Hire team members will visit 10 sites, surprising tradies with pizzas, coolers filled with drinks, and exclusive Kennards Hire merch to thank them for their immeasurable contributions to our communities, cultures and economies.

As a proud Australian family-owned business, Kennards Hire is committed to supporting tradies year-round. National Tradie Day serves as a platform to thank them, celebrate their impact, and shine a spotlight on the people who build and maintain the foundations of our communities.