Popular trade courses for international students in Australia is one of those topics that comes up a lot. Trades are often on skilled migration lists, they lead to good jobs, and they’re practical. But are they right for international students? I’ve watched friends do trade courses, and some loved the hands on work and got great jobs. Others found trades weren’t what they expected and struggled.
Three years later, I’m finishing my Master’s at the University of Melbourne. I’ve watched friends complete trade courses, and I’ve seen how their careers developed. Some got licensed and started their own businesses. Some got jobs with companies and are doing well. Some found trades weren’t for them and changed direction.
So here’s everything I know about popular trade courses for international students in Australia, based on what actually happens.
What Are Trade Courses Actually?
Let me start with the basics, because I got confused about this at first.
Trade courses teach practical skills for specific trades. You learn by doing, not just by reading. You work with tools, equipment, and real projects. It’s hands on, physical work.
Trade courses usually lead to Certificate III, which is the standard qualification for trades. Once you have Certificate III and meet other requirements, you can apply for a trade license.
Common trades include: carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, automotive mechanics, painting, welding, and others. Each trade has its own course and requirements.
But here’s what nobody tells you: trades are physical work. They’re not desk jobs. You’ll be on your feet, using tools, working with your hands. If that’s not for you, trades aren’t right for you.
Carpentry: Building and Construction
This is one of the most popular trades, and here’s what it involves.
Carpentry is about building and working with wood. You learn to build structures, install fixtures, and work on construction projects. It’s physical, hands on work.
Carpentry courses usually take one to two years. You learn practical skills, safety procedures, and how to use tools properly. You do both theory and practical work.
Job prospects are generally good. There’s usually demand for carpenters, especially in cities with construction activity. You can work for construction companies or start your own business.
But here’s what to watch for: carpentry is physical work. You’ll be lifting, carrying, working in various conditions. It’s not easy work, and it can be hard on your body.
Plumbing: Essential Services
This is another popular trade, and it’s always in demand.
Plumbing is about installing and maintaining water and gas systems. You learn to work with pipes, fixtures, and systems. It’s technical and practical.
Plumbing courses usually take one to two years. You learn practical skills, safety procedures, and how to work with different materials and systems.
Job prospects are usually good. Plumbers are always needed. People always need water and gas systems installed and maintained. You can work for companies or start your own business.
But here’s what to watch for: plumbing can be dirty work. You’ll be working in tight spaces, dealing with waste, and working in various conditions. It’s not glamorous work.
Electrical Work: Power and Systems
This is a technical trade that requires careful attention to detail.
Electrical work is about installing and maintaining electrical systems. You learn to work with wiring, circuits, and electrical equipment. It’s technical and requires precision.
Electrical courses usually take one to two years. You learn practical skills, safety procedures (which are critical for electrical work), and how to work with electrical systems.
Job prospects are usually good. Electricians are always needed. There’s ongoing demand for electrical work in construction, maintenance, and repairs.
But here’s what to watch for: electrical work can be dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing. Safety is critical. You need to be careful, precise, and follow procedures exactly.
Automotive Mechanics: Cars and Vehicles
This is a popular trade, especially for people who like cars.
Automotive mechanics is about repairing and maintaining vehicles. You learn to work with engines, transmissions, brakes, and other vehicle systems. It’s technical and hands on.
Automotive courses usually take one to two years. You learn practical skills, how different systems work, and how to diagnose and fix problems.
Job prospects vary. There’s usually demand for mechanics, but it depends on location and the type of work. You can work for dealerships, independent shops, or start your own business.
But here’s what to watch for: automotive work can be dirty and physical. You’ll be working with grease, oil, and heavy parts. It’s not clean work.
Painting and Decorating: Finishing Work
This is a trade that’s often overlooked but can be a good option.
Painting and decorating is about applying paint and finishes to surfaces. You learn to prepare surfaces, apply paint, and create finishes. It’s creative and practical.
Painting courses usually take one to two years. You learn practical skills, colour theory, and how to work with different materials and surfaces.
Job prospects vary. There’s usually demand for painters, especially in construction and renovation. You can work for companies or start your own business.
But here’s what to watch for: painting is physical work. You’ll be on your feet, reaching, climbing, and working in various positions. It can be tiring.
Other Popular Trades
There are many other trades, and here are some that are popular:
Welding is about joining metals. It’s technical and requires skill. Job prospects are usually good, especially in construction and manufacturing.
Bricklaying is about building structures with bricks and blocks. It’s physical work, but there’s usually demand, especially in construction.
Hairdressing is about cutting and styling hair. It’s creative and people focused. Job prospects vary, but there’s usually demand.
But here’s what I’ve learned: not all trades are equal. Some have better job prospects than others. Some are more suitable for international students than others. Research specific trades before you choose.
What You Need to Succeed in Trades
This is important, because trades aren’t for everyone.
You need to be physically fit. Trades are physical work. You’ll be on your feet, lifting, carrying, working in various conditions. If you’re not physically fit, trades will be challenging.
You need to be practical. Trades are about doing things, not just understanding concepts. You need to be able to work with your hands and solve practical problems.
You need to be patient. Learning a trade takes time. You’ll make mistakes. You need to be patient and keep learning.
You need to be safety conscious. Trades can be dangerous if you don’t follow safety procedures. You need to be careful and follow rules.
You need to be willing to work hard. Trades are not easy. They require effort, dedication, and hard work.
Job Outcomes: What Actually Happens
This is the part that matters most, and it varies by trade.
Some trades have excellent job prospects. Carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, these often have good demand and good pay.
Some trades are more competitive. Painting, hairdressing, some others can be more competitive, and job prospects vary.
Your location matters. Trades in cities with construction activity often have better prospects than trades in smaller cities or regional areas.
Your effort matters. Getting licensed, building experience, networking, these all help. A trade qualification alone isn’t enough. You need to work hard and build your career.
I know trade graduates who got great jobs and are doing well. I also know trade graduates who struggled to find work. The difference was their trade, their location, their effort, and their approach to building their career.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are trade courses good for international students?
They can be, but it depends on the student. Trades are physical work, and they require practical skills. If you’re interested in trades and suited to the work, they can be excellent. But trades aren’t for everyone.
Can I get PR with a trade qualification?
Sometimes yes, but it depends on the trade and other factors. Many trades are on skilled migration lists, but you still need to meet other requirements like work experience, English language, and points. Check the skilled migration lists for your specific trade.
How long do trade courses take?
Most trade courses take one to two years full time. Some intensive programs are shorter. Some part time programs are longer. Check specific courses for exact durations.
Do I need to be physically strong for trades?
You need to be reasonably fit, but you don’t need to be extremely strong. Trades are physical work, but most people can do them if they’re reasonably fit and willing to work hard.
Can I work while studying a trade?
Yes, the same work rights apply. You can work 48 hours per fortnight during semester, and unlimited hours during breaks. But trade courses are often intensive, so balancing work and study can be challenging.
Are trades good for women?
Yes, absolutely. More women are entering trades, and there’s support available. Don’t let gender stereotypes stop you if you’re interested in trades.
Final Thoughts
Trade courses in Australia can be excellent options for international students who want practical, hands on work and good job prospects. They’re cheaper than university degrees, shorter, and lead to recognised qualifications. But they’re not for everyone, and they require physical work and practical skills.
Don’t choose a trade just because it’s on a skilled migration list. Choose a trade because you’re interested in it and suited to the work. If you hate the work, you’ll be miserable, and you might not succeed.
I’ve made plenty of mistakes since landing in Melbourne, but each one taught me something. The biggest lesson? Match your course to your interests and abilities. Trades are valuable, but they’re not right for everyone. Choose what matches what you want to do and what you’re good at.
If you’re still planning your study journey, check out my guides on what is TAFE in Australia and best vocational courses for PR pathways. And if you’re considering a trade, research specific trades, talk to people working in those trades, and make sure it’s right for you. Trades can be excellent, but make sure you’ll actually enjoy and succeed in the work.