For skilled workers looking to build a stable and well-paid career abroad, Australia presents one of the most rewarding opportunities. The country’s booming construction, manufacturing, mining, and infrastructure sectors have opened the door to thousands of high-paying trade jobs. What makes this route even more appealing is that many of these positions offer visa sponsorship and do not require a university degree.
If you’re a qualified tradesperson—such as a plumber, electrician, welder, or carpenter—you may be able to earn over AUD $90,000 per year working in Australia, with the possibility of permanent residency over time.
This article explains how to qualify for visa-sponsored trade jobs, which trades are in high demand, expected salaries, and how to navigate Australia’s skilled migration system in 2025.
Why Australia Needs Foreign Tradespeople
Several economic and demographic factors are driving the high demand for skilled trades in Australia:
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Housing and infrastructure projects are expanding rapidly, especially in regional areas.
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Aging workforce: Many local tradespeople are nearing retirement age, creating urgent skill gaps.
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Low domestic supply: Fewer Australians are entering vocational training, leading to a shortage of licensed professionals.
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Regional development programs are encouraging migration to less-populated areas, often offering additional visa incentives.
In response, both the federal and state governments have placed numerous trade occupations on the Skilled Occupation Lists, making it easier for foreign workers to apply for visa sponsorship.
Top Trade Jobs in Australia with Visa Sponsorship
Below are some of the most sought-after trades that frequently offer employer sponsorship and competitive salaries:
1. Electricians
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Average Salary: AUD $85,000 – $120,000/year
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Licensing: Requires formal recognition through Trade Recognition Australia (TRA) and an electrical license (per state).
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Visa Pathways: Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage), 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional), or 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme)
2. Plumbers
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Average Salary: AUD $80,000 – $100,000/year
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Duties: Residential and commercial plumbing, gas fitting, maintenance.
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Requirements: Formal qualification and licensing via local regulatory authorities.
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Visa Pathways: Employer-sponsored visas; regional areas offer faster PR transitions.
3. Carpenters and Joiners
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Average Salary: AUD $70,000 – $95,000/year
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Scope: Framing, roofing, cabinetry, and commercial fit-outs.
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Demand: High across residential construction and remote project sites.
4. Welders and Fabricators
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Average Salary: AUD $75,000 – $100,000/year
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Industries: Shipbuilding, mining, construction, rail.
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Requirements: Trade qualifications and possibly a practical assessment (via a registered RTO).
5. Diesel Mechanics
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Average Salary: AUD $85,000 – $110,000/year
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Employers: Heavy equipment companies, mining firms, agricultural contractors.
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Sponsorship Likelihood: High, especially in regional and mining zones.
6. Bricklayers and Tilers
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Average Salary: AUD $70,000 – $90,000/year
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Visa Pathways: Often on the Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List (PMSOL), fast-tracking applications.
Visa Options for Sponsored Trade Workers
If you have a trade qualification and experience, there are multiple visa options for living and working in Australia:
1. Subclass 482 – Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa
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Employer-sponsored: A business applies to bring you in to fill a shortage.
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Medium-term stream: Can lead to permanent residency after 3–4 years.
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Requirements: Skills assessment (for most trades), English proficiency, and health checks.
2. Subclass 494 – Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa
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Regional areas: Must work outside major cities (e.g., Sydney, Melbourne).
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Benefits: Pathway to permanent residency after 3 years.
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Incentives: Regional sponsors often assist with relocation and offer higher acceptance rates.
3. Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS)
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Permanent residency: Direct PR pathway for highly skilled and experienced tradespeople.
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Eligibility: At least 3 years of full-time experience and a relevant qualification.
4. Subclass 190 / 491 – State or Regional Nomination Visas
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Points-based: These visas use a points system considering age, work experience, language, and education.
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Skilled Occupation Lists: Many trade roles are on state nomination lists.
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PR Advantage: Leads to permanent residency either directly (190) or after 3 years (491).
Licensing and Skills Assessment
Before your visa can be granted, your trade skills typically need to be assessed by an approved authority.
Trade Recognition Australia (TRA)
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Assesses whether your skills meet Australian standards.
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Required for most trades on skilled occupation lists.
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Process includes document review and, in some cases, a practical skills assessment.
State Licensing
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Some trades require state-level licensing (e.g., electricians, plumbers).
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This can usually be started once in Australia but may delay employment start date.
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Bridging or gap training may be required depending on the state and role.
How to Find Sponsored Trade Jobs
Here are practical steps to finding real employers who will support your visa application:
1. Use the Right Job Platforms
Search for phrases like “482 visa sponsorship,” “TRA approved,” or “skilled trade sponsorship” on platforms such as:
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jobsearch.gov.au
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seek.com.au
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workforceaustralia.gov.au
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regionalaustraliainstitute.org.au
2. Target Regional Employers
Many regional construction firms are more open to sponsoring workers, especially through subclass 494 or 491.
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Be open to relocating to areas like Northern Queensland, Western Australia, or rural South Australia.
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Regional jobs often come with relocation assistance and higher approval likelihood.
3. Work with Licensed Migration Agents
Some agents specialize in matching tradespeople with sponsoring employers.
Make sure the agent is registered with the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA).
4. Apply Through Registered Training Organizations (RTOs)
RTOs offering certification or bridging programs may also help you connect with hiring companies.
How Fast Can You Move?
With the right employer and all documents in order, the visa process can move quickly:
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Job offer + Skills Assessment: 2–3 weeks to secure and prepare
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Visa Processing: Around 6–12 weeks for Subclass 482 or 494
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Relocation: Flights, accommodation, and transport may be covered partially by the employer
Total time from job offer to arrival can be as little as 3–4 months, depending on individual circumstances.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
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Keep All Certifications Updated
Ensure your trade qualifications are translated into English and meet Australian standards. -
Gather Strong References
Include verified letters of employment showing your years of experience. -
Pass English Language Tests
Some visas require IELTS or PTE scores. Meeting minimum scores is critical. -
Prepare Physically and Mentally
Australian trade jobs are often physically demanding. Employers look for hardworking, adaptable candidates. -
Be Flexible and Responsive
Respond quickly to communication from recruiters, migration agents, or sponsoring companies.
Conclusion
If you’re a skilled tradesperson without a university degree, Australia offers one of the most practical and lucrative pathways for career growth, income stability, and long-term residency. With wages frequently exceeding AUD $90,000 per year, trade jobs are not just about hard labor—they’re about building a secure and prosperous future.
By securing an employer willing to sponsor your visa, completing the necessary skills assessment, and targeting in-demand roles in regional Australia, you could be on your way to a new life within just a few months. The opportunity is real. Now it’s your turn to make it happen.
