Australia’s Permanent Residency for Skilled Trades: Steps for Jobs Over $85,000

Australia’s robust economy, high quality of life, and demand for skilled trades make it a top destination for professionals seeking permanent residency (PR) and high-paying career opportunities.

With a strong need for tradespeople in construction, engineering, automotive, and related fields, skilled trade workers can secure jobs offering salaries above AUD $85,000 annually while pursuing PR through visa pathways like the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program.

This comprehensive guide explores the steps, requirements, and strategies for skilled trade workers to achieve Australian permanent residency, focusing on high-paying trade roles, with insights drawn from government sources, industry data, and immigration trends as of May 2025.

Why Choose Australia for Skilled Trades?

Australia’s skilled trades sector is a cornerstone of its economy, contributing significantly to infrastructure, housing, and manufacturing.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), trade occupations like electricians, carpenters, and plumbers have a median annual income of AUD $80,000–$100,000, with specialized roles exceeding $85,000.

The National Skills Commission projects a shortage of 150,000 skilled trade workers by 2030, driven by infrastructure projects and an aging workforce, ensuring strong demand.

Permanent residency in Australia offers benefits like access to Medicare, education, and the ability to sponsor family members, with a pathway to citizenship after four years.

The GSM program, including visas like the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) and Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190), is tailored for skilled workers, processing over 140,000 PR applications annually under the 2024–25 Migration Program.

High-paying trade jobs align with Australia’s Skilled Occupation Lists, making PR attainable for qualified tradespeople.

Understanding Australia’s General Skilled Migration Program

The GSM program is a points-based system managed by the Department of Home Affairs, designed for skilled workers whose occupations are listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL). It includes three main visa options for skilled trades:

1. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): For workers with in-demand skills, offering PR without state or employer sponsorship.
2. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): Requires nomination by a state or territory, adding five points to the application.
3. Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491): A provisional visa for regional areas, leading to PR after three years.

These visas are processed via the SkillSelect system, where candidates submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and are ranked based on points for age, education, work experience, and other factors.

High-paying trade roles over $85,000, such as electricians or construction supervisors, are often eligible, particularly on the MLTSSL.

Eligibility Requirements for Skilled Trades PR

To qualify for GSM visas, skilled trade workers must meet specific criteria, ensuring their occupation and qualifications align with Australia’s needs. Below are the key requirements:

1. Occupation on Skilled Occupation List

• The applicant’s trade must be listed on the MLTSSL (for Subclass 189/190) or STSOL (for Subclass 190/491). Examples of eligible trades include:
  • Electrician (General) (ANZSCO 341111): MLTSSL, median salary $90,000.
  • Carpenter (ANZSCO 331212): MLTSSL, median salary $85,000.
  • Plumber (General) (ANZSCO 334111): MLTSSL, median salary $88,000.
  • Construction Project Manager (ANZSCO 133111): MLTSSL, median salary $120,000.
• Check the current Skilled Occupation List on the Department of Home Affairs website, as lists are updated biannually.

2. Skills Assessment

• Applicants must obtain a positive skills assessment from a Relevant Assessing Authority, such as Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) for most trades or VETASSESS for certain supervisory roles.
• Requirements typically include:
  • A recognized trade qualification (e.g., Certificate III in Electrotechnology for electricians).
  • At least three years of full-time paid work experience post-qualification (or equivalent part-time).
  • Evidence of recent employment (within the last three years) in the nominated trade.
• TRA’s Job Ready Program or Offshore Skills Assessment Program may apply for those without Australian qualifications. Fees range from AUD $300–$2,000, depending on the pathway.

3. Points Test

• Candidates must score at least 65 points on the GSM points test, with higher scores (80–90) improving chances of invitation. Points are awarded for:
  • Age: Max 30 points (25–32 years optimal).
  • English Proficiency: Max 20 points (e.g., IELTS 8 or PTE 79 for Superior English, 20 points).
  • Skilled Employment: Max 20 points (8+ years in nominated occupation, 20 points).
  • Educational Qualifications: Max 20 points (e.g., bachelor’s degree or trade certificate, 15 points).
  • Other Factors: Community language skills (5 points), partner skills (10 points), or state nomination (5–15 points).
• Use the Home Affairs Points Calculator to estimate your score.

4. English Language Proficiency

• Achieve at least Competent English (e.g., IELTS 6 or PTE 50 in each band) via an approved test (IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, or OET).
• Higher scores (Proficient or Superior English) add 10–20 points, critical for competitive EOIs.

5. Age

• Applicants must be under 45 years old when invited to apply for the visa.

6. Health and Character Requirements

• Pass medical examinations to prove good health.
• Provide police clearance certificates from countries resided in for 12+ months in the last 10 years to demonstrate good character.

Steps to Secure Permanent Residency for Skilled Trades

Step 1: Verify Occupation and Eligibility

• Confirm your trade is on the MLTSSL or STSOL using the ANZSCO code.
• Assess your qualifications, work experience, and English proficiency against GSM criteria. Consult a registered migration agent (e.g., MARA-registered) for complex cases.

Step 2: Obtain a Skills Assessment

• Contact TRA or the relevant assessing authority to initiate the skills assessment.
• Submit documents like trade certificates, apprenticeship records, employment references, and payslips. References should detail job duties, tools used, and hours worked.
• Complete technical interviews or practical assessments if required (common for TRA’s Offshore Skills Assessment).
• Processing takes 2–4 months; ensure accuracy to avoid refusals.

Step 3: Demonstrate English Proficiency

• Book an English test (IELTS or PTE recommended for tradespeople) and aim for Proficient (IELTS 7/PTE 65) or Superior (IELTS 8/PTE 79) to maximize points.
• Tests are valid for three years; retake if scores are insufficient.

Step 4: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

• Create a SkillSelect account and submit an EOI, specifying your nominated occupation, visa subclass (189, 190, or 491), and points score.
• Include details on skills assessment, English results, work experience, and education.
• Update your EOI if circumstances change (e.g., new qualifications or work experience) to boost points.

Step 5: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

• EOIs are ranked, and top-scoring candidates receive ITAs during monthly invitation rounds (typically 1,000–3,000 invitations per round).
• Subclass 189 requires higher points (85–95), while Subclass 190/491 may invite at 65–80 with state nomination.
• Invitations are valid for 60 days; act promptly to apply.

Step 6: Apply for the Visa

• Submit the visa application online via ImmiAccount, including:
  • Skills assessment outcome.
  • English test results.
  • Passports, birth certificates, and marriage certificates (if applicable).
  • Health and character documents.
  • Proof of work experience and qualifications.
• Pay the visa application fee (AUD $4,770 for the primary applicant, additional for dependents).
• Processing times: Subclass 189 (6–12 months), Subclass 190 (7–14 months), Subclass 491 (8–15 months).

Step 7: Secure State Nomination (Optional)

• For Subclass 190 or 491, apply for state/territory nomination to add 5–15 points.
• Requirements vary by state (e.g., Victoria requires a Registration of Interest; Western Australia prioritizes local employment).
• High-demand trades in states like Queensland or South Australia (e.g., electricians, welders) increase nomination chances.

Step 8: Arrive and Settle in Australia

• Upon visa approval, receive a PR visa (Subclass 189/190) or provisional visa (Subclass 491, leading to PR via Subclass 191 after three years).
• Access settlement services like Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) or JobActive for job search support.
• Obtain trade licenses (e.g., electrical contractor license) to work legally in your field.

High-Paying Skilled Trade Jobs Over $85,000

Australia’s trade sector offers numerous roles with salaries exceeding $85,000, particularly in construction, mining, and infrastructure. Below are in-demand trades on the MLTSSL, their median salaries, and requirements, based on Job Outlook and Seek data:

1. Construction Project Manager (ANZSCO 133111):
   • Median Salary: $120,000–$150,000
   • Description: Oversees building projects, managing budgets and timelines.
   • Requirements: Diploma of Building and Construction or bachelor’s degree; 5+ years’ experience.
   • Top Locations: Sydney, Melbourne, Perth.
2. Electrician (General) (ANZSCO 341111):
   • Median Salary: $90,000–$110,000
   • Description: Installs and maintains electrical systems in residential, commercial, or industrial settings.
   • Requirements: Certificate III in Electrotechnology; Australian trade license (post-arrival).
   • Top Locations: Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth.
3. Plumber (General) (ANZSCO 334111):
   • Median Salary: $88,000–$105,000
   • Description: Installs and repairs water, gas, and drainage systems.
   • Requirements: Certificate III in Plumbing; 3+ years’ experience.
   • Top Locations: Sydney, Gold Coast, Darwin.
4. Welder (First Class) (ANZSCO 322313):
   • Median Salary: $85,000–$100,000
   • Description: Performs precision welding for infrastructure or mining projects.
   • Requirements: Certificate III in Engineering (Fabrication); welding certifications.
   • Top Locations: Western Australia, Queensland, South Australia.
5. Automotive Electrician (ANZSCO 321111):
   • Median Salary: $85,000–$95,000
   • Description: Diagnoses and repairs electrical systems in vehicles or heavy machinery.
   • Requirements: Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology.
   • Top Locations: Perth, Newcastle, Canberra.
6. Carpenter (ANZSCO 331212):
   • Median Salary: $85,000–$90,000
   • Description: Constructs and repairs building frameworks, often in high-demand construction zones.
   • Requirements: Certificate III in Carpentry; 3+ years’ experience.
   • Top Locations: Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane.

These roles are eligible for GSM visas and offer pathways to PR, with higher salaries in regional or mining areas like Western Australia or Queensland.

Strategies to Maximize PR Success

1. Choose In-Demand Trades

• Prioritize MLTSSL occupations with strong demand, such as electricians or construction managers, to increase invitation chances.
• Research state-specific priorities (e.g., South Australia’s focus on trades for renewable energy projects).

2. Boost Points Score

• Gain additional work experience (5–8 years for 15–20 points).
• Improve English scores to Proficient or Superior levels.
• Complete a Professional Year Program in Australia (5 points) if studying locally.
• Include a skilled partner or spouse for extra points (5–10).

3. Target State Nomination

• Apply to states with trade shortages, like Western Australia or Tasmania, for Subclass 190/491 nominations.
• Meet state-specific requirements, such as committing to live and work in the state for two years.

4. Prepare a Strong Skills Assessment

• Provide detailed employment references, including supervisor contacts, to verify trade experience.
• Include evidence of continuous professional development (e.g., short courses in advanced welding techniques).

5. Secure a Job Offer

• While not required for Subclass 189, a job offer strengthens Subclass 190/491 applications and ensures income upon arrival.
• Use job boards like Seek, Jora, or TradeJobsAustralia to find roles.
• Attend trade expos or network via LinkedIn to connect with employers.

6. Work with a Migration Agent

• Engage a MARA-registered agent (e.g., True Blue Migration or VisaEnvoy) to navigate skills assessments, EOIs, and state nominations. Fees range from AUD $2,000–$5,000.

Challenges and Considerations

1. Competitive Points Threshold:
   • Subclass 189 often requires 85–95 points due to high demand. Subclass 190/491 is more accessible with state nomination.
2. Skills Assessment Delays:
   • TRA assessments can take 3–4 months; incomplete documentation leads to refusals.
3. Trade Licensing:
   • Most trades require Australian licenses (e.g., White Card for construction, electrical license). Apply post-arrival via state regulators like SafeWork NSW.
4. Cost of Immigration:
   • Total costs include skills assessment ($300–$2,000), visa fees ($4,770), English tests ($300), and medicals ($500). Budget for dependents if applicable.
5. Regional Requirements:
   • Subclass 491 mandates living in regional areas (e.g., not Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane) for three years, which may limit job options but offer higher salaries.

Job Search and Settlement Resources

• Job Boards: Seek, TradeJobsAustralia, Indeed, Jora.
• Recruiters: Partner with agencies like Hays Construction or Programmed Skilled Workforce.
• Trade Unions: Join groups like the CFMEU for networking and job leads.
• Settlement Services: Access free support via Settlement Services International (SSI) or AMES Australia for housing, language, and job assistance.
• Licensing Bodies: Contact state regulators (e.g., VBA Victoria, QBCC Queensland) for trade licensing requirements.

Salary and Lifestyle Benefits

Skilled trade jobs over $85,000 provide financial stability and access to Australia’s high standard of living. Benefits include:

• Competitive wages, often supplemented by overtime or regional allowances.
• Access to Medicare and subsidized education.
• Vibrant cities (Sydney, Melbourne) and regional hubs (Perth, Cairns) with diverse communities.
• Opportunities for career progression into supervisory or business ownership roles.

Conclusion

Achieving permanent residency in Australia as a skilled trade worker targeting jobs over $85,000 is a rewarding pathway for professionals in high-demand fields like electrical, plumbing, and construction management.

Through the General Skilled Migration program, tradespeople can leverage their skills, qualifications, and strategic planning to secure PR via the Subclass 189, 190, or 491 visas.

By obtaining a skills assessment, boosting points through English proficiency and state nomination, and preparing a strong EOI, skilled workers can navigate the competitive process successfully.

Despite challenges like licensing and costs, the benefits of high salaries, career growth, and a vibrant lifestyle make Australia an ideal destination. Start your journey today by verifying your occupation, booking an English test, or consulting a migration agent to unlock a prosperous future Down Under.

Ready to pursue Australian PR? Check your occupation on the Skilled Occupation List, contact Trades Recognition Australia for a skills assessment, or connect with a MARA-registered agent to begin your visa application. Your high-paying trade career in Australia awaits!