Top 5 Construction Trade Courses for PR in Australia (2025–2026)

📌 Published by Nationwide Migration & Education
👩‍💼 Led by Registered Migration Agent Suman Dua (MARN: 1800859)

Are you thinking about studying in Australia but also want a clear pathway to permanent residency?
Right now, construction trade courses are one of the most strategic options in 2025 and 2026 — and here’s why.

👷‍♂️ Why Trade Courses Are in High Demand

Australia is facing a nationwide shortage of construction workers, creating urgent demand across multiple states.

• 🧱 According to ABC News, Australia needs 90,000 more workers to meet the National Housing Accord target of 1.2 million homes in five years.

• 🏗️ In Queensland, the construction pipeline is forecast to grow from $53 billion in 2024–25 to $77 billion in 2026–27 — with a shortfall of up to 50,000 workers as the Brisbane 2032 Olympics approaches.

• 🏘️ Victoria plans to build 800,000 homes in 10 years, but ongoing trade shortages may slow delivery.

• 🔨 Other states like Western Australia are also struggling to fill vacancies in key trades like carpentry, bricklaying, tiling, and painting.

✈️ Migration Pathways for Trade Workers

Because of this demand, construction trade occupations are being prioritised by the Department of Home Affairs and state governments.

• 🎯 Many trades are invited for the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa at just 65 points.

• 🏙️ If you don’t meet the 65-point threshold, you can still pursue state-nominated visas such as the 190 or 491, which continue to favour construction trades.

• 🧑‍💼 You can also explore employer-sponsored pathways like the:

  • Subclass 482 (Skills in Demand Visa)

  • Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme)

  • Subclass 494 (Regional Employer Sponsored)

🛠️ Top 5 Trade Courses for 2025–26

Here are the most recommended trade qualifications for international students and temporary visa holders.

5️⃣ Painter

• Occupation: Painting Trades Worker (ANZSCO 332211)

• Qualification: Certificate III in Painting and Decorating

4️⃣ Bricklayer

• Occupation: Bricklayer (ANZSCO 331111)

• Qualification: Certificate III in Bricklaying and Blocklaying

3️⃣ Wall and Floor Tiler

• Occupation: Wall and Floor Tiler (ANZSCO 333411)

• Qualification: Certificate III in Wall and Floor Tiling

2️⃣ Plasterer

• Occupation: Solid Plasterer (ANZSCO 333212)

• Qualification: Certificate III in Solid Plastering

1️⃣ Carpenter

• Occupation: Carpenter (ANZSCO 331212) / Carpenter and Joiner (331211)

• Qualification: Certificate III in Carpentry (CPC30220)

• Why #1?
  Carpentry is one of the most consistently invited trades at 65 points, is prioritised by most states, and has high employment opportunities across Australia.

🧭 Study Options and PR Strategy

• 🕒 Most trade courses are 2 years in duration, but many providers offer fast-track 1-year options — ideal for those on a 485 Graduate Visa.

• 🎓 Upon completing a 2-year course, you may become eligible for a 485 Temporary Graduate Visa for up to 18 months, if you’re under 35.

• 🧰 While on a 485 visa, you can:

  • Complete the Job Ready Program (JRP)

  • Gain skilled employment

  • Apply for permanent visas like 189, 190, or 491

• 🚀 If you’re already onshore with time left on your 485 visa:

  • Take a fast-track trade course in 1 year

  • Finish the Job Ready Program in another year

  • Be ready to lodge your skilled visa application in just 24 months

💼 Don't forget — employers are hiring trade workers, so the 482, 186, and 494 remain excellent options for PR as well.

🧩 How We Can Help

At Nationwide Migration and Education, we support you every step of the way:

• ✅ Enrolment in reputable trade colleges across Australia

• ✅ Access to scholarships and payment plans

• ✅ Visa guidance, skills assessments, JRP, and PR planning

• ✅ Free consultations (for onshore applicants)

We’ll help you build a clear, step-by-step strategy tailored to your goals.

📞 Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re planning to study a trade in Australia, now is the time. With growing demand, low invitation points, and multiple migration pathways, these courses could set you on the fast track to permanent residency.

📥 Book a FREE consultation today to explore your best options and start building your future with confidence.

❓ FAQ

Q: Can I study a trade course if I’m already on a 485 visa?
Yes! In fact, many students use their 485 visa to enrol in fast-track trade programs, then complete the Job Ready Program and apply for PR.

Q: Do I need a high points score to apply for a trade-related PR visa?
Not necessarily. Some trades have been invited at just 65 points through the 189 visa. State nominations and employer sponsorships also provide alternate options.

Q: Will completing a trade course guarantee PR?
No visa is guaranteed, but choosing an in-demand trade and following a strategic plan (study + JRP + employment) significantly boosts your chances.

Q: How do I know which trade is best for me?
Speak with our team — we’ll assess your background, goals, and eligibility to recommend the best study and migration plan for you.

⚠️ DISCLAIMER

Remember: criteria change often, and no two cases are the same.
Use this blog as guidance only.

For personalised advice, book a consultation with us—we’d be happy to help you on your migration journey.