Vocational Education (Trade Courses)
Vocational Education - Trade Courses
Explore in-demand trade courses in Australia that offer hands-on skills and lead to job-ready qualifications. Ideal for students seeking PR pathways and skilled occupations.
Top Educational Institutes in Australia
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Trade courses, also known as Vocational Education and Training (VET), provide hands-on skills in fields like carpentry, painting, automotive, and cabinet making. These are typically Certificate III or IV level qualifications and lead to skilled job roles.
Yes, international students can enroll in trade courses offered by CRICOS-registered institutions. These courses are visa-eligible and can be packaged with English language programs if needed.
Yes. As of 2025, Australia faces a shortage of qualified tradespeople across multiple industries. Occupations like carpenters, mechanics, glaziers, and painters are consistently listed in national skill shortage reports.
Yes. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study terms and unlimited hours during holidays, allowing you to gain industry experience and support living expenses.
Entry-level salaries vary by trade but typically start from:
Carpenters: AUD $55,000–$70,000
Motor Mechanics: AUD $50,000–$68,000
Painters/Decorators: AUD $50,000–$65,000
Experienced tradespeople often earn over AUD $80,000+ per year, depending on location and specialization.
Yes. Many trade occupations like Carpenter (ANZSCO 331212), Solid Plasterer, and Automotive Electrician are listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), making them eligible for Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) and later General Skilled Migration (subclass 189/190) visas
Most Certificate III programs take 12 to 24 months, depending on the course and provider. Some offer accelerated learning pathways or recognition of prior learning (RPL) options.
Typical entry requirements include:
- Minimum age: 18 years
- IELTS 5.5 overall (no band <5.0) or equivalent
- Completion of Year 10 or Year 12 (varies by course)
- Some courses may require a skills interview or basic math proficiency.
Tuition fees range from AUD $10,000 to $18,000 per year, depending on the college and location (Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, etc.). Payment plans are often available.
You’ll need to apply for a skills assessment through Trades Recognition Australia (TRA). This usually requires:
- Completion of a relevant Certificate III or IV
- Proof of 12–24 months of work experience
- Sometimes a Job Ready Program (JRP) for international students
