Are you considering making Australia your permanent home and wondering which trade course can help you get there? Choosing the best trade course for PR in Australia can significantly increase your chances of securing permanent residency. With many trades in high demand, Australia offers excellent opportunities for skilled workers who want to live and work here long term. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the top trade courses for PR in 2025, their benefits, eligibility criteria, and how to follow the pathway to permanent residency.
Let’s begin by understanding what trade courses are and why they matter for your PR goals.
Please Note: This article serves as a general guide to help you understand the topic, with information accurate as of the publication date. We recommend consulting a registered migration agent or The Department of Home Affairs for precise, up-to-date guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.
Understanding Trade Courses for PR in Australia
Trade courses focus on practical skills and hands-on training in specific occupations like carpentry, plumbing, or commercial cookery. They’re designed to prepare you for skilled roles that are essential to Australia’s economy. Many of these trades feature on Australia’s Skilled Occupation Lists, including the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).
Australia has a strong need for qualified tradespeople, especially as infrastructure and construction projects continue to grow. These courses not only equip you with industry-relevant skills but also align you with occupations that are eligible for skilled migration and PR pathways.
Understanding the value of trade courses is key to planning your successful PR journey.
Benefits of Trade Courses for PR
Trade courses offer several advantages that make them a smart choice for those seeking permanent residency in Australia:
- Direct PR Pathways: Many trade occupations are in demand and listed on the skilled occupation lists, making it easier to qualify for PR visas.
- Shorter Course Duration: Compared to university degrees, trade courses usually take less time to complete, meaning you can start working sooner.
- Strong Job Opportunities: Skilled trades are required across urban and regional Australia, providing ample employment options.
- Additional Points: You can gain extra points for studying or working in regional areas, improving your PR eligibility.
- Cost-Effective: Trade courses often have lower tuition fees than degree programs.
- Specialisation Options: Trades allow you to focus on areas that match your interests and market needs.
With these advantages, which trade courses should you consider for your PR application? Let’s explore the top trade courses for 2025.
Top Trade Courses for PR in Australia 2025
Here are some of the most popular trade courses that lead to strong PR opportunities in 2025:
1. Carpentry
- Duration: Typically 3-4 years (Certificate III in Carpentry)
- Job Opportunities: High demand in construction and building projects across Australia, especially in housing and urban development.
- Average Salary: AUD 60,000 to AUD 80,000 per year
2. Commercial Cookery
- Duration: 1-2 years
- Job Opportunities: Wide scope in hospitality, including restaurants, hotels, and catering services.
- Average Salary: AUD 50,000 to AUD 70,000 per year
3. Plumbing
- Duration: Around 4 years
- Job Opportunities: Consistent demand due to ongoing construction and maintenance of water and drainage systems.
- Average Salary: AUD 60,000 to AUD 90,000 per year
4. Electrical Trades (Electrician)
- Duration: Approximately 4 years
- Job Opportunities: Growing demand due to technological advances and renewable energy projects.
- Average Salary: AUD 65,000 to AUD 85,000 per year
5. Automotive Mechanic
- Duration: About 3 years
- Job Opportunities: High need for skilled vehicle mechanics due to increasing vehicle complexity.
- Average Salary: AUD 55,000 to AUD 75,000 per year
6. Construction Management
- Duration: 1-2 years
- Job Opportunities: Growing industry with demand for qualified managers to oversee building projects.
- Average Salary: AUD 80,000 to AUD 120,000 per year
These courses align well with Australia’s skilled occupation lists and provide a solid foundation for PR applications. Knowing the best trade courses, it’s important to check if you meet the eligibility requirements to enrol and apply for PR.
Eligibility Requirements for Trade Courses
Before enrolling, you’ll need to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria:
- Academic Requirements: Generally, completion of Year 12 or equivalent.
- English Proficiency: Proof of English skills through IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE tests, typically with a minimum score required.
- CRICOS Registration: The course must be CRICOS-registered to be eligible for a student visa if you’re an international student.
- Age: Age may impact your PR eligibility later; typically under 45 years old is preferred.
Meeting these requirements is the first step; now let’s look at how trade courses link to permanent residency pathways.
Pathway to PR Through Trade Courses
Completing a trade course is just the beginning. Here’s how it fits into the PR journey:
Skills Assessment
You’ll need a positive skills assessment from authorities like Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) or VETASSESS, verifying your qualifications and experience meet Australian standards.
Visa Options
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): Requires state or territory nomination.
- Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491): For those willing to live and work in regional Australia, with a pathway to PR after three years.
- Employer Sponsored Visas (Subclass 482 and Subclass 186): If you secure a job offer from an Australian employer.
Work Experience
Gaining relevant employment post-study, especially in regional areas, can boost your points and improve PR chances.
Regional Study Benefits
Studying or working in designated regional areas often adds extra points to your application and offers priority processing under DAMA (Designated Area Migration Agreements).
Following these steps strategically enhances your chances of getting PR.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best trade course for PR in Australia can be a game-changer for your future. With Australia’s growing demand for skilled tradespeople, these courses offer fast, practical routes to permanent residency. Be sure to meet eligibility criteria, select a course aligned with the skilled occupation lists, and plan your post-study career carefully.
If you’re ready to start your journey or want personalised advice tailored to your situation, reach out to Knowbal. Our expert migration agents can help you choose the right trade course and guide you through your PR application, ensuring you make the most of your Australian dream.
