Australia is entering one of the biggest building booms in its history. With governments committing
to deliver over a million new homes in the next five years, construction is no longer just an
industry—it is a national priority. From housing affordability to major infrastructure, the demand for
skilled workers in the construction sector is higher than ever. For students, workers, and migrants,
this means clear opportunities for career growth, permanent residency, and long-term stability.
Queensland’s New Pathway for Construction Workers
Recent updates to state nomination programs highlight just how competitive states are becoming in
attracting skilled trades. Migration Queensland has created a dedicated Building and Construction
pathway in its Registration of Interest (ROI) categories. This change means:
• Construction trades such as carpentry, plumbing, bricklaying, electrical, and refrigeration
mechanics now have a streamlined nomination process.
• Occupations like Construction Project Managers, Site Supervisors, and Architectural
Draftspersons are being prioritised to meet the state’s housing and infrastructure targets.
• Applicants can submit an ROI to be considered for both subclass 190 (permanent residency)
and subclass 491 (regional provisional visa) under construction-specific criteria.
This move demonstrates how states are competing to secure the construction workforce required to
address Australia’s housing crisis.
Why Study a Construction Course Now?
1. Housing Crisis = High Demand
Housing affordability is one of the most pressing issues for everyday Australians. Skilled
construction workers are essential to deliver solutions. Choosing a construction course now positions
you directly in the middle of the national response to this crisis.
2. High Priority on Skilled Occupation Lists
Construction trades and technical roles are consistently featured on state priority occupation
lists for subclass 190 and 491 visas. This not only increases your employability but also gives you a
pathway to permanent residency.
3. Lower Points for Skilled Migration
Because construction roles are in shortage, invitation rounds for state nominations often
require fewer migration points compared to oversupplied occupations. This gives applicants a
strong competitive advantage.
4. Career Security and Growth
With ongoing investment in infrastructure and housing, construction jobs provide long-term stability,
career progression, and opportunities to start your own business.
5. Apprenticeships and Graduate Incentives
The government is offering significant incentives for apprentices and graduates in construction
related fields, further strengthening employment prospects for those entering the industry.
Permanent Residency Opportunities for Construction Workers
Construction courses open clear migration pathways through:
• Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa – Permanent residency supported by state
nomination.
• Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional Visa – A provisional visa leading to permanent
residency (subclass 191) after three years of regional work and living.
• Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa – A temporary work visa that allows
skilled workers to live and work in Australia for an approved employer in occupations where
local skills are in shortage. It can provide a pathway to permanent residency after gaining
required work experience.
• Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa – A permanent residency visa for
skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian employer. This visa offers a direct
pathway to PR either through the Temporary Residence Transition stream (after holding a
482 visa) or via the Direct Entry stream for eligible applicants.
By aligning your study with in-demand construction occupations, you significantly improve your
chances of securing nomination from states such as Queensland, New South Wales, Western
Australia, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria and in ACT & Northern Territory.
Why Choose Visa 1 Migration Pty Ltd?
Located in Merrylands, Sydney our team at Visa 1 Migration Pty Ltd specialises in guiding
students and skilled workers into the right courses and migration pathways. Whether you want to
enrol in a construction course, understand the latest state nomination updates, or explore permanent
residency options, we can help.
Fill in our enquiry form with your details, and our experienced migration team will provide a tailored
plan for your future in Australia’s booming construction industry.