Australia is a popular destination for international students looking to gain permanent residency. One of the best ways to achieve this is through completing a trade course, which can lead to a skilled occupation and therefore an opportunity to apply for permanent residency. In this article, we will explore some of the best trade courses for PR in Australia.
Skilled Occupations List
Before we delve into the best trade courses for PR in Australia, it’s important to understand the Skilled Occupations List (SOL). The SOL is a list of occupations that are in demand in Australia, and if you complete a course in one of these occupations, you may be eligible for a visa that allows you to work and live permanently in Australia.
The SOL is reviewed regularly, and the occupations on the list can change over time. As of June 2023, some of the trade courses that are currently on the SOL include:
- Electrician (General)
- Chef
- Welder (First Class)
- Plumber (General)
- Automotive Electrician
- Carpenter and Joiner
- Bricklayer
- Wall and Floor Tiler
- Painting Trades Workers
- Fitter (General)
Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the best trade courses for PR in Australia.
Electrician (General)
Electricians are always in high demand in Australia, as they are responsible for installing, repairing and maintaining electrical systems in residential, commercial and industrial settings. To become an electrician in Australia, you need to complete a Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician, which typically takes around four years to complete.
After completing your studies, you will need to obtain an Electrical Mechanic Licence to work as an electrician in Australia. This licence can be obtained by completing a supervised apprenticeship or obtaining recognition of prior learning (RPL) based on your previous experience and qualifications.
Chef
Australia’s thriving hospitality industry means that chefs are always in high demand. To become a chef in Australia, you will need to complete a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery, which typically takes around two years to complete.
After completing your studies, you can apply for a temporary graduate visa, which allows you to work in Australia for up to 18 months after completing your course. If you continue to work as a chef in Australia and meet the requirements for permanent residency, you may be eligible to apply for a Skilled Independent Visa.
Welder (First Class)
Welders are responsible for joining metal parts together using a variety of techniques, including arc welding, gas welding and resistance welding. To become a welder in Australia, you will need to complete a Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade (Heavy/Welding YH).
After completing your studies, you will need to obtain a Welding Supervisor Certification from a recognised industry body, such as the Welding Technology Institute of Australia (WTIA). This certification demonstrates that you have the skills and knowledge required to supervise welding operations in Australia.
Plumber (General)
Plumbers are responsible for installing and repairing water supply and drainage systems in residential, commercial and industrial settings. To become a plumber in Australia, you will need to complete a Certificate III in Plumbing, which typically takes around three years to complete.
After completing your studies, you will need to obtain a plumbing licence from the relevant state or territory authority. This licence demonstrates that you have the skills and knowledge required to work as a plumber in Australia.
Automotive Electrician
Automotive electricians are responsible for installing and repairing electrical systems in vehicles such as cars, trucks and buses. To become an automotive electrician in Australia, you will need to complete a Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology, which typically takes around three years to complete.
After completing your studies, you will need to obtain an Automotive Electrical Licence from the relevant state or territory authority. This licence demonstrates that you have the skills and knowledge required to work as an automotive electrician in Australia.
Conclusion
Completing a trade course is one of the best ways to gain permanent residency in Australia. By completing a course in a skilled occupation that is in demand, you can increase your chances of obtaining a visa that allows you to work and live permanently in Australia. When choosing a trade course, it’s important to research the current Skilled Occupations List and select a course that aligns with your career goals and interests.
