Why Trade Professionals Are in Demand in Australia

Australia faces an ongoing skills shortage, especially in construction and technical trades. Reasons include:

• Large infrastructure projects nationwide (roads, rail, airports, housing)

• Ageing workforce with many nearing retirement

• Population growth creating housing and service demand

• Regional areas struggling to attract workers

According to Jobs and Skills Australia, trade occupations like electricians, mechanics, and carpenters are consistently on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).

Pathways to Migrate as a Trade Professional

1. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

• No sponsorship required.

• Points-tested (age, skills, English proficiency, experience).

• Permanent residency pathway.

2. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

• Requires state/territory nomination.

• Adds 5 extra points.

• Commitment to living in nominating state for at least 2 years.

3. Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)

• For working and living in designated regional areas.

• Adds 15 points to your application.

• Can transition to permanent residency after 3 years.

Skills Assessment: The First Crucial Step

Before applying for a skilled visa, you must prove your trade qualifications through a skills assessment.

• Authority: Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) handles most trade assessments.

• Requirements:

  • Proof of formal qualifications (diplomas, NVQs, trade certificates)

  • Evidence of work experience (letters, payslips, contracts)

  • English proficiency (IELTS/PTE)

• In some cases, you may need to undergo a practical assessment to verify your skills.

Top Trade Jobs in Demand in Australia

1. Electricians: Residential & industrial projects

2. Plumbers: Water systems, gas fitting, sanitation

3. Carpenters & Joiners: Housing and commercial builds

4. Welders & Metal Fabricators: Mining, manufacturing, construction

5. Automotive Mechanics: Cars, trucks, heavy machinery

6. Bricklayers & Stonemasons: Infrastructure and housing

7. Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Mechanics: Commercial & residential systems

💰 Average salaries: AUD $65,000–$95,000 annually, with higher earnings in regional areas or for contractors.

Tips for Trade Professionals Migrating from Africa

• Get documents certified: Ensure your certificates and references are notarized.

• Prepare for licensing: Many trades (electricians, plumbers, mechanics) require local licensing after arrival.

• Consider regional migration: Higher chances of invitation through Subclass 491 or 190.

• Start English prep early: A strong IELTS or PTE score boosts your points.

• Network before arrival: Join Facebook groups, LinkedIn trade forums, and African communities in Australia.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming African qualifications alone will be enough (TRA assessment is mandatory).

• Underestimating the importance of English tests.

• Not budgeting for the skills assessment fees (AUD $1,000–$2,500).

• Applying without researching the right visa subclass for your occupation.

For African trade professionals, migrating to Australia is not just a dream; it’s a practical opportunity. With the country’s urgent need for skilled workers, electricians, welders, mechanics, and builders are among the most sought-after migrants.

By getting your skills assessed, choosing the right visa pathway, and preparing well in advance, you can secure not only a job but also a long-term future in Australia.

Achieve Your Migration Journey Today with Afrovo.

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