Are you looking to build a hands-on career and migrate to Australia? Trade courses can open doors to in-demand jobs, regional sponsorships, and permanent residency (PR) pathways. These practical courses are shorter and more affordable than university degrees, and aligned with occupations on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
At Oracle Immigration, we specialise in guiding students and skilled workers to select the right course and migration strategy tailored to their goals.
Top Trade Courses in Australia (with Duration & Fees)
These are some of the trade courses in 2025:
Carpentry
- What You’ll Learn: Framing, roofing, cabinetry, and structural repairs
- Course Duration: 3–4 years (with apprenticeship)
- Tuition Fee: AUD 5,000 – 10,000
- Average Salary: AUD 45,000 – 70,000 per year
- Industry: Building & Construction
- Intakes: Multiple intakes annually
Plumbing
- What You’ll Learn: Water systems, drainage, and gas fitting
- Course Duration: 4 years (includes apprenticeship)
- Tuition Fee: AUD 5,000 – 10,000
- Average Salary: AUD 50,000 – 85,000 per year
- Industry: Plumbing & Maintenance Services
- Intakes: Several intakes year-round
Electrical
- What You’ll Learn: Electrical systems, circuits, safety standards
- Course Duration: 4 years (with apprenticeship)
- Tuition Fee: AUD 5,000 – 10,000
- Average Salary: AUD 50,000 – 90,000 per year
- Industry: Construction & Electrical Services
- Intakes: Offered throughout the year
Automotive
- What You’ll Learn: Vehicle diagnostics, engine repair, and maintenance
- Course Duration: 3–4 years
- Tuition Fee: AUD 5,000 – 10,000
- Average Salary: AUD 45,000 – 70,000 per year
- Industry: Automotive repair & dealerships
- Intakes: Multiple times a year
Welding
- What You’ll Learn: Metal fabrication and welding techniques
- Course Duration: A few weeks to 1 year
- Tuition Fee: AUD 5,000 – 10,000
- Average Salary: AUD 45,000 – 70,000 per year
- Industry: Construction & Manufacturing
- Intakes: Available throughout the year
Hairdressing & Beauty
- What You’ll Learn: Hair styling, colouring, and beauty treatments
- Course Duration: 1–2 years
- Tuition Fee: AUD 5,000 – 10,000
- Average Salary: AUD 40,000 – 60,000 per year
- Industry: Salons & Spas
- Intakes: Multiple intakes annually
Bricklaying & Stonemasonry
- What You’ll Learn: Masonry, restoration, and stone construction
- Course Duration: 6 months – 2 years
- Tuition Fee: AUD 5,000 – 10,000
- Average Salary: AUD 40,000 – 60,000 per year
- Industry: Building & Restoration Projects
- Intakes: Varies by provider
Refrigeration & Air Conditioning
- What You’ll Learn: Installation and servicing of cooling and heating systems
- Course Duration: 1–2 years
- Tuition Fee: AUD 5,000 – 10,000
- Average Salary: AUD 45,000 – 60,000 per year
- Industry: HVAC & Facility Maintenance
- Intakes: Spring and Fall
Landscaping & Horticulture
- What You’ll Learn: Garden design, soil care, plant management
- Course Duration: 6 months – 1 year
- Tuition Fee: AUD 5,000 – 10,000
- Average Salary: AUD 30,000 – 50,000 per year
- Industry: Parks, Gardens & Private Landscaping
- Intakes: Spring and Summer
Eligibility to Enrol in Trade Courses in Australia
To apply for a trade course as an international student, you must meet specific requirements:
✔️ Educational Qualifications
You’ll typically need to have completed Year 12 or equivalent. Some courses may accept Year 10, depending on the provider.
✔️ English Language Proficiency
Non-native speakers must provide proof of English skills via:
- IELTS
- TOEFL
- PTE Academic
Minimum scores based on the course and institution.
✔️ Subject Prerequisites
Some courses require basic knowledge of specific subjects.
For instance:
- Maths & Physics for Plumbing
- Electronics for electrical trades
✔️ Age Requirements
Many apprenticeships and trade courses require students to be 18 years old.
✔️ Physical Fitness
Trades such as construction, automotive, or welding require good physical health to manage hands-on tasks safely.
✔️ Work Experience or Internship (if applicable)
Some advanced courses may ask for prior industry experience or participation in pre-course internships.
✔️ Additional Certifications or Licenses
Courses like forklift operations or welding may need specific safety certifications or licenses.
Need Help Applying?
Choosing the right trade course can shape your future career and immigration pathway. At Oracle Immigration, we specialise in guiding international students through the enrolment and visa process, from selecting the best trade program to preparing your student visa application.
Book a consultation today to start your trade journey in Australia!
Disclaimer: The above information is not tailored to personal circumstances.
For information relevant to personal circumstances, please book an
appointment with Oracle Immigration Consultant’s expert migration agents in
Australia.
For any inquiries, please contact us at +61 430812158. We are premier Immigration agency and consultancy in Melbourne (Bundoora and Geelong).
