Visa-Sponsored Trade Jobs in Australia – Earn Over $80,000 AUD Per Year
Are you a skilled tradesperson looking for a high-paying job overseas? Australia is offering trade jobs with visa sponsorship to qualified foreign workers and salaries can exceed $80,000 AUD per year. From electricians to plumbers, welders to mechanics, there’s a growing demand for trades that keep Australia’s infrastructure and economy running.
With visa support, relocation assistance, and long-term career prospects, Australia is one of the best countries for foreign tradespeople ready to build a better future.
Why Australia Is Hiring Skilled Tradespeople from Abroad
Australia’s construction, mining, energy, and transport sectors are expanding, but local labour shortages mean employers are turning to overseas talent. Many trades are listed on the Skilled Occupation List, allowing foreign workers to be sponsored for work visas making migration easier and faster.
These roles are hands-on, well-paid, and often come with job security, union support, and a pathway to permanent residency.
Visa Options for Trade Workers in Australia
1. Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa – Subclass 482
Allows Australian employers to sponsor foreign workers for up to 4 years in skilled occupations. Trade jobs like electricians, welders, and carpenters are eligible.
2. Skilled Independent Visa – Subclass 189
Points-based permanent residency visa. No employer sponsorship required but requires qualifications, experience, and a positive skills assessment.
3. Skilled Nominated Visa – Subclass 190
Permanent visa based on state nomination. You must be invited to apply and meet specific criteria for your occupation.
4. Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) – Subclass 186
For skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian employer for a permanent position. Common in long-term trade roles like mechanics and builders.
Who Can Apply for Trade Jobs in Australia?
You may qualify if you:
- Are aged 18–45
- Have at least 2–3 years of relevant trade experience
- Possess a trade qualification or apprenticeship (may require recognition in Australia)
- Pass an English language test (IELTS or equivalent)
- Pass a skills assessment by a recognized authority (e.g., Trades Recognition Australia)
- Meet health and character requirements
In-Demand Visa-Sponsored Trade Jobs in Australia
1. Electricians
Install and maintain electrical systems in homes, commercial buildings, and factories.
Average Salary: $85,000 – $110,000 AUD/year
Visa: TSS 482 or Subclass 190
2. Welders & Metal Fabricators
Join and shape metal parts for manufacturing, construction, and infrastructure.
Average Salary: $80,000 – $95,000 AUD/year
Visa: TSS 482
3. Plumbers
Install water and drainage systems, often in residential and commercial properties.
Average Salary: $82,000 – $100,000 AUD/year
Visa: Subclass 186 or 189
4. Carpenters & Joiners
Build frameworks, furniture, and wooden structures for construction sites or fit-outs.
Average Salary: $75,000 – $90,000 AUD/year
Visa: Subclass 482 or 190
5. Auto Mechanics & Diesel Fitters
Repair and maintain vehicles, trucks, and heavy equipment in workshops or mining sites.
Average Salary: $80,000 – $100,000 AUD/year
Visa: Subclass 482 or 186
6. HVAC Technicians
Install and service heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
Average Salary: $85,000 – $100,000 AUD/year
Visa: Skilled Worker routes
7. Bricklayers and Tilers
Essential in construction projects across housing and commercial developments.
Average Salary: $75,000 – $85,000 AUD/year
Visa: Employer-sponsored options
Salary Expectations and Job Benefits
Visa-sponsored trade jobs in Australia offer strong earning potential and excellent living conditions.
Salary Range:
- Entry-level: $70,000 – $80,000 AUD/year
- Experienced: $85,000 – $110,000 AUD/year
- Overtime and site allowances can push earnings even higher
Common Benefits:
- Employer-sponsored work visa
- Support with skills assessment and licensing
- Superannuation (pension contributions)
- Paid annual leave and public holidays
- Work uniforms and safety gear provided
- Relocation support and housing help
- Union support and safe working conditions
Top Employers and Agencies Hiring Skilled Foreign Tradespeople
1. Programmed Skilled Workforce
Large staffing agency placing tradespeople across mining, manufacturing, and transport sectors.
2. Downer Group
A leading construction and infrastructure company with job roles in rail, energy, and utilities.
3. Boral Limited
Building and construction materials provider hiring operators, electricians, and fitters.
4. Hays Trades & Labour
Global recruitment agency with job listings across Australia for carpenters, welders, and plumbers.
5. CoreStaff Australia
Works with large companies to recruit foreign talent into FIFO (Fly-In-Fly-Out) and regional roles.
6. WorkPac Group
Specialists in mining, construction, and industrial jobs offering visa pathways for experienced tradespeople.
How to Apply for Trade Jobs in Australia with Visa Support
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
- Trade qualifications (e.g., NVQ, apprenticeship, diploma)
- Updated CV with work history
- Passport and identification
- IELTS or English test result
- Police clearance
- Skills assessment (if required)
Step 2: Search for Jobs Online
Use these trusted platforms:
- Seek.com.au
- Indeed Australia
- Hays Recruitment
- WorkPac Careers
- Company websites (e.g., Downer, Programmed)
Step 3: Apply and Interview
Send targeted applications. If shortlisted, attend a virtual interview and possibly complete a trade test or skills verification.
Step 4: Skills Assessment and Visa Sponsorship
Your employer may guide you through the Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) process to validate your qualifications.
Step 5: Apply for Your Visa
Once the employer provides a nomination, you can apply for your visa via the Australian government immigration portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply without formal qualifications?
You usually need proof of your trade skills. If you learned on the job, a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process may apply.
Can I bring my family?
Yes. Most skilled visas allow you to bring your spouse and children with full work and study rights.
Do I need to find a job before applying for a visa?
For sponsored visas like the 482, yes. For independent skilled visas like 189, you apply first and get invited later.
Is IELTS mandatory?
Yes. You must prove English proficiency unless you’re from an exempt English-speaking country.
Is there a path to permanent residency?
Yes. Many trade jobs on the occupation list lead to permanent residency after working in Australia for 2–3 years.
Conclusions
Australia’s booming trade sector needs workers like you. If you have the skills and determination, you can earn over $80,000 AUD per year, enjoy great benefits, and move toward permanent residency with full visa support and job stability.
Start by getting your documents ready, apply through trusted agencies, and begin the journey to working and living in Australia as a skilled tradesperson.
