Discover why a TRA skills assessment is essential for trade workers, which industries require it, and how the process opens doors to skilled migration in Australia.

Australia’s demand for skilled tradespeople is high, making migration opportunities attractive for qualified workers. The TRA skills assessment is a critical first step for many trade occupations, ensuring your skills and qualifications meet Australian standards. Understanding who needs a TRA assessment and how it works can help you unlock career and migration opportunities in Australia.

Why Australia Needs Skilled Trade Workers

Australia’s booming construction, automotive, hospitality, and technical sectors rely on qualified tradespeople to keep up with infrastructure growth and industry demands. Shortages in key trades—such as electricians, mechanics, plumbers, and chefs—mean skilled migrants are in high demand across the country. Recognizing overseas qualifications through Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) allows employers to fill gaps and ensures safety and quality standards are maintained.

Top Benefits of the TRA Skills Assessment Pathway

  • Recognition of Overseas Skills: The TRA skills assessment process validates your qualifications and experience, making you eligible for skilled migration visas and employment in Australia.
  • Access to Skilled Visas: A positive TRA assessment is mandatory for many skilled migration visas, including subclass 189, 190, and 491, as well as employer-sponsored pathways.
  • Industry Mobility: TRA certification is recognized nationwide, allowing you to work in your trade across all Australian states and territories.
  • Pathway to Licensing: For licensed trades (e.g., electricians, plumbers), TRA assessment is often a prerequisite for further licensing and registration in Australia.
  • Career Advancement: TRA-certified tradespeople can access higher-paying jobs, regional incentives, and long-term residency opportunities.

Is TRA Skills Assessment Right for You?

You need a TRA assessment for trades if:

  • Your occupation is on the TRA occupation list (e.g., carpenter, bricklayer, electrician, chef, mechanic, welder, baker, hairdresser, and many more).
  • You’re applying for a skilled migration visa or a Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) that requires a skills assessment.
  • You want your overseas trade qualifications and experience recognized for employment or licensing in Australia.

TRA assesses a wide range of trade and technical occupations. The full list includes construction, automotive, electrical, engineering, hospitality, and personal services trades. If your trade is not on the TRA list, check the skilled occupation list or consult the Department of Home Affairs for the correct assessing authority.

TRA skills assessment

A TRA skills assessment is the gateway for skilled tradespeople seeking to work and live in Australia. By validating your skills and experience, TRA opens doors to migration, employment, and long-term career growth. If your trade is in demand, start your assessment process and take the first step toward an Australian future.