-
Plumber seeking a move to WA
Hello everyone.
I am a 34 year old Plumbing and heating engineer running my own business in the UK. Me and my family (wife & 3 children) are coming to Perth in December to check out some local areas, and to hopefully show our children it would be the best move for them.
I guess my question to the forum, is there anybody who could offer any advice on where to start? Ideally I would love to gain sponsorship but understand there’s limited opportunities.
-
1 Reply
-
Hey mate – welcome to the forum.
Great idea with your planned visit to Perth with your family! (Bring the sunscreen as it will be HOT)!
As a Plumbing and Heating Engineer, you’ll be glad to know that plumbers (ANZSCO 334111) are on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), which means potential skilled visa pathways are available.
Steps to Get Started:
-
Licensing & Skills Assessment – To work as a plumber in Australia, you’ll need to have your skills assessed by Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) (https://www.tradesrecognitionaustralia.gov.au/) and obtain a plumbing licence in WA. The licensing process is managed by the Plumbers Licensing Board of WA (https://www.dmirs.wa.gov.au/licensing/plumbers).
-
Visa Options – Since your occupation is on the MLTSSL, you have options like:
- Employer-Sponsored Visa (Subclass 482 – Temporary Skill Shortage Visa) – If you find a sponsoring employer.
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) – A points-based visa that doesn’t require sponsorship.
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) – Requires state nomination (WA nomination may be an option).
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) – If you’re open to regional WA.
-
Job Search & Sponsorship – Sponsored jobs in plumbing can be competitive, but it’s possible. I’d recommend starting your search here:
- 482 Jobs (Visa-Sponsored Jobs) – All jobs listed offer sponsorship.
- Seek
- Indeed
-
Networking & Research – Since you’re visiting Perth in December, use the trip to connect with local employers, trade associations, and recruiters. From the websites above, take a note of the recruiters who are frequently advertising for plumbers in WA and reach out to them directly.
I did exactly this almost 20 years ago when I came to Perth from the UK on a bit of a rekkie and had coffee with several recruiters, which really helped serve as the foundation for my network for the job hunting that followed on my return back to the UK,
If you want to maximise your chances of finding a sponsored role, ensure your CV is formatted for Australian recruiters, its nott hat different to the UK format but there are some nuances you might want to consider. Here’s a guide that can help: Australia Resume Tips: Craft a Winning Resume in Australia.
Since you have a family, consider researching schools and suburbs in Perth. Northern and southern suburbs like Joondalup, Baldivis, and Ellenbrook are popular with families.
Let me know if you need further details, I’d be happy to help!
Regards,
Mark -
Log in to reply.