Trades in Australia – Occupations in Demand

Australia's demand for skilled and qualified trades varies by territory and industry.

The current list of occupations includes trade and skilled occupations in the following groups:

• Construction Managers

• Electrical Engineering Draftspersons and Technicians

• Telecommunications Technical Specialists

• Automotive Electricians

• Motor Mechanics

• Glaziers

• Sheetmetal Trades Workers

• Structural Steel and Welding Trades Workers

• Metal Fitters and Machinists

• Precision Metal Trades Workers

• Panel beaters

• Bricklayers and Stonemasons

• Carpenters and Joiners

• Painting Trades Workers

• Glaziers

• Plasterers

• Wall and Floor Tilers

• Plumbers

• Electricians

• Air-conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics

• Electrical Distribution Trades Workers

• Electronics Trades Workers

• Chefs

• Cabinetmakers

• Boat Builders and Shipwright

The Australian Lists of Occupations are reviewed periodically to address current and long-term skills shortages in the Australian labour market, including shortages in trades.

The Occupations List consists of two schedules: Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).

Note there is a separate list of occupations in relation to the Australian Employer Sponsored Visas. Therefore,if you are offered a job, you need to make sure your occupation is listed on the relevant Skilled Occupation List.