If you are, or plan to become, an international student looking for a practical career in Australia, trade courses are an excellent choice. They provide hands-on skills, are highly sought after, offer strong employment opportunities, and can even open pathways to permanent residency.
Australian employers struggle to find qualified tradespeople. (Master Builders Survey 2024)
Why Study a Trade Course in Australia?
Studying trade courses like building and construction in Australia offers international students a pathway to practical skills, strong job prospects, and potential permanent residency. Here’s why
High Demand for Skilled Trades
Skilled Trade Opportunities in Australia for International Students
Australia is currently experiencing a shortage of skilled tradespeople, particularly in the construction sector. As of May 2024, there were around 24,900 job vacancies in the building and construction industry, making up 7.6% of all job openings nationwide.
The construction industry employs approximately 1.36 million people (November 2024) and is expected to grow by 9.5% over the next ten years. This growth is fueled by ongoing infrastructure projects and a national housing shortage, creating high demand for trades such as carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work.
Competitive Salaries in Trades
Trade careers in Australia offer attractive earning potential. Electricians are highly sought after, with over 624,000 job searches per year, while plumbers, carpenters, and construction managers also earn competitive salaries, typically ranging from AUD 60,000 to AUD 100,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
Opportunities for International Students
International students can study trade courses through CRICOS-registered institutions, making them eligible for student visas. These courses provide practical, hands-on skills and can open pathways to permanent residency, especially for trades listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List.
Popular Trade Courses
Brick and Blocklaying
Study Bricklaying in Australia: Hands-On Skills and Career Opportunities
Becoming a bricklayer in Australia is an excellent option for international students seeking practical skills and strong job prospects. The Certificate III in Bricklaying/Blocklaying is the most popular course, providing hands-on training in construction techniques, safety, and blueprint reading.
With Australia’s construction industry growing and bricklayers included on the Skilled Occupation List, graduates are in high demand. Studying this trade can also create a pathway to permanent residency, especially with relevant work experience. And the best part—you can earn while you learn.
Carpentry
Carpentry is one of the most popular trade courses for international students in Australia—and for good reason! The Certificate III in Carpentry gives you practical, hands-on training in construction, framework, and using power tools, all while learning in a real-world environment.
Australia is currently experiencing a shortage of skilled carpenters, which means strong job prospects after graduation. Carpentry is also on the Skilled Occupation List, making it a great option if you’re aiming for permanent residency in the future.
Wall and Floor Tiling
Wall and Floor Tiling is a hands-on, creative trade that’s in high demand across Australia! As an international student, you can study the Certificate III in Wall and Floor Tiling, where you’ll learn how to lay tiles, read plans, use tools and materials, and work safely on construction sites.
Tilers are currently on the Skilled Occupation List, meaning this course not only sets you up for job opportunities but could also help with your pathway to permanent residency.
If you enjoy practical work, have an eye for detail, and want a career with strong job security, tiling could be your perfect fit!
