Australia’s skilled migration system is changing fast, and new data highlights a major shift. Trades and construction workers now receive the largest share of invitations under the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa. Recent invitation results show that 30–40% of all invitations went to workers in this sector - one of the strongest increases seen in years.

This demand covers a wide range of roles including carpenters, electricians, plumbers, builders, civil technicians, and site supervisors. Many of these occupations received invitations at 65 points, which is the lowest possible threshold. For many skilled workers, this creates a rare chance to enter Australia’s migration program with minimum competition.

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Soaring Salaries Show Growing Shortages

Australia’s major states are experiencing a heavy labour shortage. Large infrastructure projects, transport expansions, and housing developments - especially in Queensland and Western Australia - have pushed salaries to record levels. Current project data shows that experienced trades and construction professionals now earn AUD $150,000 to $300,000+, depending on their skills, licence, and location.

These rising salaries show how urgently Australia needs more qualified workers - and skilled migration remains a key solution.

Complete Profiles Now Required for Selection

As demand grows, the Department of Home Affairs has tightened the selection process. Many applicants in the last round did not receive any review because their profiles were incomplete. Missing skills assessments, low English test scores, or unverified trade certificates immediately removed them from consideration.

In today’s system, experience alone is not enough. Applicants must submit a complete and verified profile to enter the invitation pool.

December Deadline: Why Trades Workers Must Act Fast

The final Subclass 189 invitation round for 2025 is expected in December. After this round:

  • New invitations will pause until mid-2026
  • Thousands of new applicants will enter the system
  • Anyone without confirmed eligibility will miss the 2025 intake

This creates a short, urgent window for applicants who want to secure a place before the long break in invitations. Completing an eligibility assessment before December greatly improves the chance of being reviewed.

Where Most Trades & Construction Workers Stand

Many skilled workers already meet - or even exceed - Australia’s minimum requirements. However, most have not completed a formal assessment. The strongest candidates include:

  • Construction Project Managers
  • Licensed or supervisory trade professionals
  • Applicants with Advanced–Fluent English
  • Candidates with recognised trade certificates or degree-level qualifications
  • Skilled workers aged 33–39, still within age limits

For many professionals, the only missing step is a verified assessment, which confirms eligibility and allows Home Affairs to review their case.

Final Window for 2025: Key Points

  • Final invitation round: Expected December
  • Next allocation: Mid-2026
  • Trades & construction share: 30–40%
  • Eligibility rule: Only complete profiles are reviewed

Australia’s demand for skilled trades professionals is at an all-time high. With major infrastructure commitments ahead, the need for qualified workers will continue to grow. But with the upcoming deadline, this is the last chance to benefit from the 2025 invitation cycle.

For trades and construction workers who want to take advantage of this opportunity, confirming eligibility now is the most important step toward securing a future in Australia.

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