Construction skills assessments: fast-tracking and streamlined processes for migrant workers

In response to the urgent demand for skilled and experienced workers in Australia’s housing construction sector, the Australian Government, through Trades Recognition Australia (TRA), has announced a comprehensive initiative to fast-track and prioritise skills assessments for migrants with construction-related experience. This initiative , aims to address the labour shortages currently facing the construction industry. 

Fast-tracking and prioritisation of construction skills assessments 

Since 1 July 2024, TRA has commenced the fast-tracking of skills assessments for around 2,600 targeted construction occupations. This process prioritises applications from existing eligible candidates, ensuring they are assessed swiftly. New eligible applications are also placed at the forefront of the assessment queue, with additional resources dedicated to accelerating this process.  

TRA-approved Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) have also been urged to give priority to assessments in housing construction occupations, aligning with the government’s objective to quickly integrate skilled workers into the workforce. 

Streamlined assessments for eligible applicants 

Another critical aspect of this initiative is the streamlined assessment process, which began on 31 July 2024. TRA has simplified the assessment procedure by removing the mandatory Offshore Skills Assessment Program (OSAP) requirement for specified occupation and country of passport combinations.  

This adjustment allows qualified applicants to opt for the more cost-effective and straightforward Migration Skills Assessment (MSA), which is conducted in-house by TRA. Applicants without formal qualifications still have the option to undergo the OSAP if they choose. 

For more detailed information on the streamlined skills assessment process, you can refer to the Factsheet 1 – Streamlining Skills Assessments for the Construction Industry 

Prioritised occupations and eligible countries 

The TRA has identified specific construction-related occupations and countries of passport that are eligible for these streamlined assessments. Occupations such as Bricklayer, Cabinetmaker, Carpenter, and Welder (First Class) are among those prioritised, with applicants from countries including China, Iran, Ireland, the Republic of Korea, Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom benefiting from this initiative. 

For a comprehensive list of prioritised occupations and the countries eligible for streamlined assessments, please refer to the Factsheet 2 – Construction Occupations List for Prioritisation and Streamlining​. 

This strategic selection of occupations and countries is designed to attract workers with skills that are in high demand within Australia’s housing construction sector, helping to alleviate the current workforce shortages. 

Supporting Australia’s housing construction sector 

By fast-tracking and prioritising these skills assessments, the Australian Government is taking decisive action to support the housing construction sector, ensuring that the influx of skilled workers meets the industry’s needs. This initiative not only benefits the construction industry but also offers migrants a more accessible pathway to contribute their skills to the Australian economy. 

As the construction sector continues to struggle with significant labour shortages, the fast-tracking and prioritisation of skills assessments by TRA represents a proactive approach to addressing this challenge. Migrants with relevant construction experience are encouraged to take advantage of this initiative by applying for the Migration Skills Assessment if they are eligible. 

For further information and to see if you qualify under this initiative, please contact our expert team at aisupport@absoluteimmigration.com to arrange an online consultation.