Professional house cleaners do so much more than just wiping down surfaces.
They keep homes fresh and comfortable, making people’s lives a lot easier!
That’s not the only thing that makes the role rewarding, though.
The cleaning industry offers plenty of benefits. The qualifications are often simple, and the working hours are usually more flexible than other jobs.
But how exactly can you get started?
You have two options: work as an independent contractor or join a cleaning company.
To help you decide which path is right for you, we’ll explain everything you need to know about how to become a cleaner in Australia.
Qualifications | How to Become a House Cleaner | Average Salary | How to Find a Cleaning Job | Job Requirements | Application Process | After Getting Hired
Is House Cleaning the Right Job for You?
Before applying for a cleaning job, it helps to know what the role involves.
As a domestic cleaner, you’re responsible for general home maintenance.
Your tasks will include:
- Replacing bed linens
- Vacuuming and mopping floors
- Dusting furniture and appliances
- Disinfecting kitchens and bathrooms
- Cleaning windows and other glass surfaces
Cleaners should be detail-oriented, adaptable, and excellent at time management.
Moreover, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of cleaning.
It can be a good job if you’re after part-time hours and prefer active work over sitting at a desk.
However, there are also challenges. It can be quite physical, and some exposure to chemicals is part of the job.
So before you move forward, carefully consider if this work suits your health, skills, and goals!
What Qualifications Are Needed to Become a House Cleaner?
In Australia, you don’t need formal qualifications or prior education to become a domestic cleaner.
Many companies (Maid2Match included!) are happy to hire beginners and provide training.
That means you can get a house cleaning job even if you’re new to the industry.
That said, some employers or roles might require candidates with 3–6 months of cleaning experience.
Additional training can also give you an edge.
You can get a Certificate III in Cleaning Operations, which is a nationally recognised vocational course.
Having some background in handling cleaning chemicals, products, or equipment is also a big plus.
Beyond cleaning, though, customer service skills are just as important.
Since you’ll be working in people’s homes, being a good communicator and showing respect can make a big difference.
Employers value cleaners who can do a great job while also providing a friendly and positive experience for clients.
How to Become a House Cleaner in Australia
There are two ways to become a house cleaner in Australia.
One option is to work as an independent contractor.
The other — and often the easier — way to get started is to join a cleaning company like Maid2Match!
Option 1: Working as an independent cleaner
Many house cleaners in Australia work as independent contractors, which means they’re self-employed.
The great thing about this setup is the freedom it gives you — you can set your own rates and fully control your schedule.
For some, this is also the first step towards eventually running their own cleaning business.
However, this path can be very challenging, especially if you’re new to the industry.
To get started as an independent cleaner, you’ll need:
- Your own cleaning equipment and supplies
- Public liability insurance to protect yourself and your clients
- An Australian Business Number (or ABN) for invoicing and taxes
- Registration with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (if using a business name)
You’ll also be responsible for:
- Finding potential clients
- Handling customer concerns
- Managing financial statements and taxes
- Bookings, invoicing, payment collection, and other admin work
Moreover, you’ll need to decide between working directly with individual clients or partnering with a cleaning company.
If you go with subcontracting for a company, keep in mind that they’ll usually take a percentage of your earnings or charge a flat fee per job.
Option 2: Working for a cleaning company
The fastest and simplest way to become a professional cleaner in Australia is by joining a cleaning company.
As an employee, you won’t have to stress about finding clients, managing taxes, or arranging insurance (unlike independent contractors).
Your employer will handle all of that for you so you can focus on what you do best — cleaning!
Once you’re hired, you’ll work either as a permanent employee or a casual employee.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| PERMANENT EMPLOYEE | CASUAL EMPLOYEE |
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If you’re after flexibility, casual work might suit you better. But keep in mind that your income can be irregular.
On the other hand, permanent employment comes with job security and stable pay. This is the setup we offer at Maid2Match!
How Much Can You Earn as a House Cleaner in Australia?
So, should you work as an independent contractor or join a cleaning company? Pay is an important factor to consider.
Independent cleaners usually charge clients $40–$60 per hour.
However, remember that they cover the cost of their cleaning supplies, insurance, travel, and taxes.
For employee cleaners, the minimum pay rates are set by the Cleaning Services Award from Fair Work.
As of June 2025, these are the base rates for house cleaners based on employment type:
| Full-Time Employees | From $25.85/hour |
| Part-Time Employees | From $29.73/hour |
| Casual Employees | From $32.31/hour |
You might notice that casual workers earn a slightly higher hourly rate.
That’s due to ‘casual loading,’ which is an extra percentage added to the base pay to compensate for the lack of benefits like paid sick leave and annual leave.
However, this higher rate comes with a trade-off. Casual workers don’t have guaranteed hours, so their income fluctuates.
On the other hand, permanent employees typically earn a bit less, but they get added benefits like paid leave and superannuation.
This is often the better choice if you’re looking for stability.
Aside from the employment setup, many factors can influence how much you earn:
WORK HOURS: You can earn more for working early mornings, late nights, weekends, or public holidays
SCOPE AND EXPERIENCE: Cleaners in specialised roles or leadership positions are usually paid more
LOCATION: Salaries vary depending on your city or state due to local demand or cost of living
How to Find a House Cleaning Job
If you’ve decided on the employment path, it’s time to start your job search!
Where to look for cleaning jobs
There are many ways to find house cleaning job opportunities in Australia.
You’ll find plenty of openings on online job boards like Indeed and Seek.
Some businesses also advertise directly on their own websites or through social media.
Understanding cleaning job descriptions
When browsing listings, remember that not all cleaning roles are the same.
Some job ads will be for general house cleaning, while others may look for Aged Care cleaning, NDIS cleaning, or DVA cleaning — or a mix of all four.
Aged Care cleaners help older people maintain a hygienic and safe environment, whether in homes or in residential facilities.
NDIS cleaners provide cleaning support to people with disabilities under the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
DVA cleaners ensure that veterans’ homes are well-maintained, in partnership with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.
You might also come across bond cleaning or end of lease cleaning jobs (done after a tenant moves out of a residential property).
Be sure to thoroughly read the job description so you’ll know what the role involves.
Choosing the right employer
Finally, make sure the company you’re applying to is a good match for your needs.
Check employee reviews online to see what others say about the work environment.
Also, compare the benefits and type of employment offered to make sure that the role fits your expectations, availability, and goals.
Requirements for Applying as a House Cleaner in Australia
Found a cleaning job opportunity that sounds promising? The next step is to prepare the application requirements!
These can vary, but most cleaning companies ask for:
- A resume
- A cover letter
- A national police check
- A car and a driver’s licence
To give yourself the best chance of getting hired, carefully review each job post and make sure you meet all requirements listed.
1. Resume
A resume sums up your work history, qualifications, and skills.
It gives employers a quick view of who you are as a worker, so they can assess if you’re qualified for the role.
Here’s what to include in your resume:
PERSONAL DETAILS: Your full name and suburb or city
CONTACT INFORMATION: Active phone number and email address
WORK EXPERIENCE: Past cleaning roles or other jobs that show transferable skills
TRAINING OR CERTIFICATIONS: Relevant credentials, including any training related to cleaning
2. Cover letter
A cover letter is a short document (usually just 1 page) that explains why you’re a good fit for the work and the company.
Think of it as a way to show employers why they should hire you!
It also gives you a chance to stand out, especially since cleaning jobs often attract many applicants.
Make sure to highlight these in your cover letter:
- Your available working days and hours
- Relevant qualifications or work experience
- Your qualities and skills that match the role
- Your enthusiasm for and commitment to the job
3. National police check
Most cleaning companies will ask you to get a national police check as part of the application process.
Usually, you’ll only need to provide it after you’ve passed the interview.
In some cases, you don’t have to worry about the cost. To assist job applicants, established companies (like Maid2Match!) often pay for this check.
You can apply for one through the Australian Federal Police website — just upload your identification documents.
4. NDIS worker screening
Some cleaning companies are registered with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
This means they’re approved to provide cleaning services to NDIS participants.
If you join an NDIS-registered cleaning company, you’ll usually need to complete an NDIS worker screening.
Make sure to coordinate with your employer so they can guide you through the process.
Some employers, including Maid2Match, will also cover the screening cost for you.
5. Car and driver’s licence
As a house cleaner, you’ll need to travel to clients’ homes with your cleaning equipment in tow.
That’s why a lot of employers will ask for you to have your own car and a driver’s licence. It makes getting to jobs easier and helps ensure you arrive on time.
If you’re in a city with extensive public transport — like Sydney or Melbourne — you might be able to manage without a car.
But overall, most companies still prefer cleaners who can drive from one job to the next.
BONUS: Maid2Match provides a car allowance for cleaners, and the travel time between jobs is paid!
6. Cleaning supplies
If you’re hired as a casual worker, your employer might expect you to bring your own cleaning supplies.
On the other hand, permanent employees are usually given the necessary equipment.
At Maid2Match, we provide everything you’ll need, plus a uniform to wear on the job.
That way, you don’t have to worry about any extra expenses.
Job Application Process for House Cleaning Roles
The application process for house cleaning jobs can vary depending on the company, but it’s usually straightforward!
Step 1: Sending a resume and cover letter
To get started, you’ll need to submit your resume and cover letter online.
Some employers may also request additional documents.
Be sure to provide everything needed to move on to the next step.
Step 2: Candidate interviews
Candidates are assessed based on their relevant work experience or transferable skills (for those new to the cleaning industry).
If you’re shortlisted, you’ll get a call from a member of the recruitment team.
This is usually a brief conversation to go over your basic duties as a house cleaner and ask a few initial questions.
Your employer will also confirm other requirements, like your availability, car, and driver’s licence.
Afterwards, you’ll be scheduled for a more in-depth interview, usually with your immediate supervisor.
Be prepared to discuss your skills and experience in more detail — this is your chance to make a great first impression!
You can also use the meeting to raise any questions or concerns about the role.
If you pass the interview, this is when you will be asked to provide a national police check certificate or complete an NDIS screening.
Step 3: Employment contract
Congratulations — you’re now a professional house cleaner!
After passing the interview and meeting all requirements, you’ll receive an employment contract.
It outlines everything about your role, including:
- Employment type (permanent or casual)
- Tasks and responsibilities
- Pay rate and schedule
- Work days and hours
- Leave entitlements
Be sure to review everything carefully before signing your contract.
Ask your employer about anything that might be unclear, and keep a copy of the document for your records.
What Happens After You Get Hired as a Domestic Cleaner?
Once you’re hired as a house cleaner, some companies might expect you to hit the ground running.
However, in other companies, like Maid2Match, you’ll start with an induction, followed by a training program.
We equip all employees with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to become successful cleaners!
Company induction
During the induction, you’ll learn more about the company you joined — particularly how their services work.
Admin tasks will also be discussed, including:
- Managing your schedule
- Filing annual or sick leave
- Attending internal meetings
- Requesting top-up cleaning supplies
BONUS: Your 1-hour induction at Maid2Match is paid!
Training
Feeling a little unsure about making homes sparkle? Don’t worry!
Newly hired cleaners usually receive training to help them learn exactly how to clean homes.
At Maid2Match, for instance, Trainees are paired with an experienced Trainer.
You’ll join your Trainer on actual cleaning jobs, so you can learn firsthand how to tackle every task.
To make sure you know every detail of your work, we also provide:
- Health and safety briefing
- Detailed cleaning checklists
- Specialised training for NDIS services
Over a few weeks, you’ll progress through the program and officially graduate as a Maid2Match Field Staff!
Find House Cleaning Jobs at Maid2Match
Once you’re a Maid2Match Field Staff, there are plenty of ways you can grow and get higher pay.
With consistent high performance, you can become a Trainer or step into leadership roles like Team Leader or Division Manager.
If that excites you, get started by sending in your application.
Maid2Match hires permanent part-time house cleaners across Australia, including Brisbane, Canberra, Perth, and more!
We offer:
- Guaranteed minimum weekly hours
- A set schedule that matches your availability
- Paid annual leave, sick leave, and superannuation
Head over to our Careers Page to find house cleaning jobs in your city.
