Australia continues to be a land of opportunity, especially for skilled tradespeople seeking not just employment but a higher standard of living, long-term stability, and a pathway to citizenship. With a booming infrastructure sector, a strong demand for skilled labor, and a commitment to attracting global talent, Australia is opening its doors wider than ever for qualified tradespeople.
The promise of permanent residency (PR) in Australia is more than a legal status—it’s a gateway to a better life. From generous salaries to healthcare, education access, and even eventual citizenship, PR offers long-term benefits. For tradespeople earning over $80,000, the rewards can be even more substantial, placing them in a financial position that allows for wealth accumulation, family sponsorships, and investment opportunities within the country.
This guide takes you step-by-step through the journey of obtaining permanent residency in Australia as a skilled tradesperson, focusing particularly on those targeting jobs with salaries over $80,000. Whether you’re a welder, electrician, carpenter, or plumber, this article aims to help you navigate the complex but achievable path toward becoming a permanent resident.
Why Australia Is an Ideal Destination for Skilled Trades
Economic Stability and Job Security
Australia has a highly developed and resilient economy. Even during global downturns, it maintains a stable growth trajectory. This economic environment creates strong job security for skilled trades, particularly in construction, manufacturing, mining, and renewable energy projects. Government-backed infrastructure initiatives further amplify the demand for tradespeople, often offering long-term contracts and generous compensation packages.
High Income Opportunities in Skilled Trades
In Australia, skilled trades are not only respected—they are well-compensated. Many roles in the trades sector offer salaries exceeding $80,000 per year. Electricians, plumbers, welders, HVAC technicians, and diesel mechanics are among the trades consistently reporting high earnings, especially when employed in regional or mining areas where demand outstrips supply.
Besides base salaries, overtime pay, travel allowances, and site-based bonuses can significantly elevate total income. This level of earning power not only ensures a comfortable lifestyle but also strengthens your case for permanent residency under points-tested visa categories.
Lifestyle and Work-Life Balance
Australia is globally recognized for its quality of life. Clean cities, beautiful coastlines, and a laid-back culture make it a desirable place to live and work. Skilled tradespeople enjoy structured working hours, paid vacation, sick leave, and access to health and retirement benefits. The country places a high value on work-life balance, ensuring you can enjoy your free time with family or explore the natural wonders of the land.
Opportunities for Family Members
A significant advantage of gaining permanent residency is the ability to sponsor your partner, children, or even parents. Australia offers a strong educational system, top-tier healthcare services, and multicultural communities that ease the integration process for families. Once permanent residency is granted, dependents gain access to public services and benefits similar to citizens.
The First Steps Toward Permanent Residency
Understanding the Skilled Migration Program
The Skilled Migration Program is Australia’s main channel for bringing in international tradespeople. The system is designed to fill gaps in the labor market, particularly in occupations that are difficult to staff locally. It operates on a points-based system that assesses your age, qualifications, work experience, language proficiency, and other criteria.
The main visa subclasses under this program are:
-
Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) – For workers who are not sponsored by an employer or family member.
-
Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) – For those nominated by a state or territory government.
-
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491) – Requires nomination by a regional area; provides a pathway to PR.
Each visa has its own requirements, but all share the goal of bringing in skilled professionals who can contribute to Australia’s economic and social fabric.
Checking Eligibility on the Skilled Occupation List
Australia maintains several Skilled Occupation Lists, updated regularly to reflect labor market needs. If your trade is on one of these lists, you may be eligible to apply for PR through the skilled migration pathway. Some high-paying trades frequently listed include:
-
Electricians
-
Diesel Mechanics
-
Plumbers
-
Welders
-
Fitters and Turners
-
Carpenters
-
HVAC Technicians
It’s crucial to verify that your occupation appears on the correct list for the visa you are targeting. Each list has unique stipulations and may be specific to certain states or regions.
Gaining Skills Assessment from a Recognized Authority
Before submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI), you must undergo a skills assessment through a recognized authority. This process verifies that your qualifications and experience meet Australian standards. Different trades have different assessing bodies. For example:
-
TRA (Trades Recognition Australia) handles most general trades.
-
VETASSESS assesses a broader range of technical and professional occupations.
-
Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) is relevant for refrigeration and air conditioning.
The skills assessment typically involves documentation review, possible technical interviews, and sometimes practical demonstrations. Passing this assessment is one of the most crucial steps in the PR process.
Meeting the Points Requirement
The points system awards values based on specific factors such as:
-
Age (max points for 25-32 years)
-
English proficiency (higher IELTS/PTE scores = more points)
-
Work experience (both overseas and Australian)
-
Educational qualifications
-
Regional study or work experience
-
State or family sponsorship
To be invited to apply for most skilled visas, you generally need a minimum of 65 points. However, occupations in high demand, especially those commanding salaries over $80,000, often require competitive scores—typically in the range of 75–90 points.
Improving your English score or gaining additional experience can significantly raise your point total, increasing your chance of selection.
Lodging an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Once your skills are assessed and you’ve calculated your points, the next step is to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect, the Australian Government’s online portal. This isn’t a visa application, but rather a way to show the government and employers that you’re interested and available for skilled migration.
In the EOI, you’ll provide details of your:
-
Personal and contact information
-
Occupation
-
Skills assessment outcome
-
Work experience
-
English language test results
-
Educational qualifications
Submitting an EOI places you in a pool of candidates. Depending on your points and occupation, you may receive an invitation to apply for a visa in one of the subsequent selection rounds.
Receiving a Visa Invitation: What Happens Next
After submitting your Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect, your profile enters a pool of candidates. Invitations to apply for visas are issued in regular rounds, typically once a month. The Australian government selects applicants based on:
-
Total points score
-
Occupation demand
-
State or territory nomination (if applicable)
-
Regional requirements (for 491 visas)
If your EOI ranks high enough in your occupation group, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for a skilled visa. This is a critical milestone—only with this invitation can you proceed to lodge a formal visa application.
Receiving an ITA means the Department of Home Affairs sees you as a viable migrant who can contribute to Australia’s workforce needs. It also indicates that your salary potential and qualifications align with current labor gaps.
How to Apply for the Permanent Residency Visa
Once you receive your ITA, the countdown begins—you typically have 60 days to submit your visa application. It’s important to be organized and have all documentation ready. The process includes:
Document Collection
You will need to upload and submit certified or notarized copies of:
-
Passport bio page
-
Skills assessment report
-
English test results (IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL)
-
Employment reference letters
-
Educational transcripts and certificates
-
Identity documents (birth certificate, national ID)
-
Health examination records
-
Police clearance certificates from countries you’ve lived in for more than 12 months
Accuracy and completeness of documentation are essential to avoid delays or rejection.
Health and Character Checks
Australia requires all visa applicants to pass health and character checks. You will be asked to:
-
Undergo a medical examination by an approved panel physician
-
Provide police clearance certificates from every country where you’ve lived for 12 months or more in the past 10 years
These checks ensure you are not a public health risk or a security concern. Family members included in your application must also complete these steps.
Paying the Visa Fee
As of the latest update, the base fee for skilled visas (189, 190, or 491) is approximately AUD $4,640 for the main applicant. Additional fees apply for:
-
Adult dependents: AUD $2,320
-
Child dependents: AUD $1,160
Fees may vary based on exchange rates and government policy, so always consult the Department of Home Affairs website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Visa Processing Time
Processing times vary depending on the visa subclass and the complexity of your case. However, on average:
-
Subclass 189: 6 to 10 months
-
Subclass 190: 6 to 12 months
-
Subclass 491: 7 to 13 months
During this time, the Department may request further information or clarification. Prompt responses will help speed up the outcome.
Job-Hunting Strategies for High-Paying Trade Positions
Landing a job that pays over $80,000 is very achievable in Australia’s trades sector, but success depends on how effectively you market yourself. Here’s how to do it strategically.
Create an Australian-Style Resume and Cover Letter
Employers in Australia expect concise, well-organized CVs with clear information about your skills, certifications, and work history. Focus on:
-
Trade licenses and safety tickets
-
Apprenticeship and formal training
-
Quantifiable achievements (e.g., projects completed, savings made, safety improvements)
Avoid lengthy CVs or including irrelevant personal details like religion or marital status.
Use Targeted Job Portals
Australia has several specialized platforms for skilled trades jobs:
-
Seek – Australia’s largest job board
-
Indeed Australia – Offers employer reviews and salary info
-
CareerOne
-
JobActive – Government-sponsored job search tool
-
Hays Recruitment – Popular for high-paying trade contracts
-
Workforce Australia – State and regional job matching
Set up alerts based on your trade and region to monitor new listings.
Register with Trade Recruitment Agencies
Trade-specific recruiters have close relationships with construction firms, mining companies, and infrastructure projects. Top recruitment firms for trades include:
-
Programmed Skilled Workforce
-
CoreStaff
-
Chandler Macleod
-
Randstad Trades & Labour
-
Brunel Energy
Registering with these agencies increases your visibility and access to unadvertised roles.
Consider Regional Areas for Higher Salaries
While cities like Sydney and Melbourne are popular, regional and remote areas often pay significantly more due to labor shortages. Tradespeople working in mining towns or infrastructure projects in the Outback can earn $90,000 to $140,000+ annually, especially with overtime.
States like Western Australia, Queensland, and South Australia frequently offer regional sponsorship for skilled tradespeople and have large projects that need staff immediately.
Build a Strong LinkedIn Profile
While LinkedIn may not seem essential in trades, many Australian employers use it to verify experience or scout for talent. A strong, up-to-date profile with trade certifications, endorsements, and references can enhance credibility.
Use your profile to connect with employers, recruiters, and skilled workers already in Australia who may refer you to roles or give insider tips.
State and Territory Sponsorship: A Key Pathway to PR
If you’re unable to qualify for a Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent) visa, getting nominated by a state or territory can increase your chances dramatically. These nominations offer:
-
Extra points (typically 5 to 15) to boost your EOI score
-
Priority processing for visas
-
Access to occupations in high demand within that state or region
Each state has its own criteria for sponsorship. Here’s a brief overview of a few options:
Western Australia
Currently experiencing a skilled labor shortage, especially in construction, electrical, plumbing, and mining trades. Offers fast-tracked sponsorship for regional work and includes many trade roles on its State Nomination Occupation List (SNOL).
South Australia
Highly active in recruiting international tradespeople. Has a clear pathway for migrants with skills in carpentry, tiling, welding, and refrigeration. Many regional towns are covered, giving access to 491 visas and additional PR pathways.
Queensland
Queensland has a strong focus on construction and infrastructure, including tourism-related builds. Sponsorships are available under the Queensland Skilled Occupation List (QSOL) for carpenters, glaziers, electricians, and metal fabricators.
Tasmania and Northern Territory
Both regions provide incentives for skilled migrants to move and stay, including sponsorship and access to critical skills occupation lists. Salaries may be higher due to remote location bonuses and regional loadings.
Real-Life Case Studies: How Tradespeople Got PR in Australia
Case Study 1: Electrical Technician from South Africa
John, a 34-year-old qualified electrician, applied for a 190 visa after securing a job in Western Australia. He had 85 points including his nomination. With a VETASSESS-approved skills assessment and strong English test scores (IELTS 8.0 average), he received his PR in 9 months. Today, he earns over $110,000 working in a mining support role and recently bought a house in Perth.
Case Study 2: Carpenter from the UK
Emma, a carpenter with over 8 years of experience, initially applied under Subclass 491 through a South Australian regional program. She secured a job offer in Mount Gambier and received regional sponsorship. Her PR pathway was granted within 2 years, and her current salary is $95,000 per annum, including overtime and allowances.
Case Study 3: HVAC Technician from the Philippines
Marco applied for a 190 visa after completing a successful skills assessment with the ARC and gaining sponsorship from Queensland. His strong technical background and high PTE score helped him earn 90 points. He now works in Brisbane on commercial air conditioning systems, earning over $88,000 with benefits.
Life After Gaining Permanent Residency: What to Expect
Access to Full Work Rights
Once you receive permanent residency, you’re no longer tied to a single employer or job. You gain unrestricted work rights, meaning you can:
-
Change jobs freely
-
Start your own trade business
-
Take on multiple contracts
-
Access union protections and benefits
For tradespeople, this flexibility opens the door to negotiating better pay, pursuing promotions, or shifting into higher-paying industries like mining, construction management, or consulting.
Eligibility for Public Benefits
Permanent residents are entitled to many of the same services as Australian citizens. These include:
-
Medicare: Australia’s public healthcare system, which covers most medical costs
-
Centrelink: Government financial assistance for those who meet eligibility criteria
-
Public Education Access: Free or low-cost schooling for children
-
Higher Education Support: Access to domestic tuition rates and financial aid options like HECS-HELP
These benefits are especially valuable for tradespeople with families or those looking to continue education or upskill in areas like business management or occupational health and safety.
Bringing Family to Australia
Once you become a permanent resident, you can sponsor eligible family members to join you. This includes:
-
Your spouse or de facto partner
-
Dependent children
-
In some cases, parents or other relatives (via specific visa streams)
Sponsored family members may also access Medicare, education, and work rights—making Australia a stable and supportive environment for reunification and long-term settlement.
Pathway to Australian Citizenship
For many skilled migrants, permanent residency is just the beginning. Citizenship brings full legal rights, diplomatic protection, and the ability to pass your status to future generations.
Residency Requirement
To apply for citizenship, you must generally have lived in Australia for at least:
-
4 years lawfully in Australia, including
-
1 year as a permanent resident immediately before applying
During this period, you can leave the country for short durations, but must not be absent for more than 12 months in total.
Character and Language Criteria
You must demonstrate good character, which is assessed via:
-
Police checks
-
Compliance with Australian laws
-
Absence of criminal convictions or immigration fraud
Applicants are also expected to have a basic knowledge of English and pass the Australian citizenship test, which covers:
-
Australian values
-
Government structure
-
History and culture
-
Civic responsibilities
Once approved, you’ll attend a citizenship ceremony and pledge your loyalty to Australia, officially becoming a citizen.
Benefits of Citizenship
As an Australian citizen, you’ll gain:
-
Voting rights
-
Access to government jobs that require citizenship
-
Australian passport with visa-free access to over 180 countries
-
No need to renew your visa
-
Full diplomatic and consular support when traveling abroad
It’s a step that not only formalizes your place in the Australian community but also opens new doors personally and professionally.
Tips for a Smooth Transition Into Australian Life
Relocating to a new country—even one as welcoming as Australia—can be daunting. But planning ahead helps ease the transition.
Understand Local Workplace Culture
Australian work environments are generally informal, respectful, and safety-conscious. Important cultural norms include:
-
Punctuality: Being on time is expected and respected
-
Direct communication: Australians value honesty and clarity
-
Workplace equality: Everyone, from apprentices to supervisors, is treated with dignity
-
Strict OH&S rules: Compliance with safety protocols is enforced rigorously
Get familiar with Australian labor laws, pay structures, award wages, and union regulations.
Set Up Financial Essentials
Upon arrival or soon after PR approval, ensure you set up:
-
Australian bank account
-
Tax File Number (TFN)
-
Superannuation account for retirement savings
-
Private health insurance (until you access Medicare)
Also explore budgeting apps and financial advisors that can help you manage a higher salary wisely.
Explore Licensing Requirements
Some trades require state-specific licenses to legally work. For instance:
-
Electricians need state-recognized electrical licenses
-
Plumbers must register with the relevant plumbing board
-
Refrigeration and air conditioning technicians require an ARC license
Research your state or territory’s licensing body and ensure you complete any required local assessments or bridging courses.
Enroll in Upskilling Programs
Even if you’re experienced in your trade, investing in local certifications can:
-
Boost your credibility with Australian employers
-
Increase your earning potential
-
Provide access to supervisory or specialist roles
TAFE (Technical and Further Education) institutes and Registered Training Organizations (RTOs) offer flexible and affordable courses for tradespeople.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid on the PR Journey
Even skilled applicants can face setbacks. Here’s how to avoid common mistakes:
Incomplete Documentation
Missing or poorly prepared documents during skills assessments or visa applications can result in delays or rejection. Always:
-
Keep copies of payslips, contracts, and references
-
Ensure translations are certified
-
Work with a registered migration agent if unsure
Low English Test Scores
A high level of English proficiency not only improves your visa points but also helps you adapt more easily. Don’t underestimate the need to:
-
Prepare thoroughly for IELTS or PTE
-
Consider professional coaching
-
Take practice exams to identify weak areas
Targeting the Wrong Visa Stream
Not every visa suits every tradesperson. For example, if your points are low, aiming for the 189 visa may waste time. Instead:
-
Consider 190 or 491 options with state sponsorship
-
Check regional occupation lists for better chances
-
Look into employer-sponsored visas as a backup
Overlooking Regional Opportunities
Many migrants aim for big cities, unaware that regional areas offer faster PR pathways, higher pay, and more visa support. Staying open to regional work increases your odds of success and allows you to meet permanent residency criteria more quickly.
Ignoring Licensing Requirements
Failure to get licensed for your trade in Australia can result in:
-
Limited job options
-
Legal risks
-
Rejection from employers
Prioritize this step early on, especially if you’re in an essential trade.
Final Thoughts
Australia’s skilled migration system is designed to welcome qualified individuals who can fill real needs across the economy. For tradespeople, this is an open invitation to not only earn a high income but to build a life marked by stability, opportunity, and security.
Whether you specialize in plumbing, electrical work, metal fabrication, or refrigeration, your skills are in high demand—and respected across industries. Permanent residency is not just a document; it’s a foundation for your future. From healthcare and education to family reunification and citizenship, the benefits are both tangible and life-changing.
Take each step with care, prepare thoroughly, and don’t hesitate to seek help when needed—from registered migration agents, trade unions, or settlement support services. With persistence and planning, you can go from being an international worker to a permanent member of the Australian community, enjoying a prosperous career and a fulfilling life Down Under.
