“Didn’t Know What to Expect”: Breaking Barriers in Male-Dominated Jobs and What It Means for Skilled Migration to Australia

Women in Trades: Challenging Stereotypes

When Angel Bielefeld applied for plumbing jobs in regional NSW, she was repeatedly told she “wasn’t strong enough.” Despite the knockbacks, she persevered, moved away from her childcare role, and finally landed her dream plumbing apprenticeship.

Her story reflects a bigger truth: many women entering male-dominated trades face challenges, yet their skills are vital in Australia’s workforce. Research shows only 7.8% of apprentices in 2023 were female, even as trade shortages continue to affect the housing and construction industries.

This highlights a key opportunity for both skilled workers overseas and Australians: gender should never be a barrier to entering essential industries.

Why Australia Needs More Skilled Tradespeople

According to the Housing Industry Association, shortages of plumbers, carpenters, tilers, and other trades threaten Australia’s housing targets. Skilled trades are critical to building 1.2 million homes by 2029.

For migrants, this means pathways such as the Skilled Migration Visa Australia, Skilled Independent Visa Australia, and Employer Sponsored Visa Australia are more relevant than ever. Applicants with experience in plumbing, carpentry, electrical, and other trades may find themselves in high demand across the country.

Migration Pathways for Skilled Workers

If you are a tradesperson looking to work in Australia, here are key visa options:

1. Skilled Migration Visa Australia

This includes visas such as the Skilled Independent Visa Australia (Subclass 189) and the State Nominated Visa Australia (Subclass 190/491). These visas don’t require employer sponsorship but rely on your qualifications, English skills, relevant work experience and points test.

2. Employer Sponsored Visa

Employers in industries facing shortages can sponsor skilled workers through:

• Employer Sponsored Visa Australia (Subclass 482)
• Employer Visa Sponsorship pathways leading to permanent residency through the 186 Employer Sponsored Visa.

3. Regional Visa Australia

Tradespeople are especially sought after in regional areas. Options include:

• Regional Sponsorship Visa Australia (Subclass 494)
• Regional State Sponsored Australia (Subclass 491) pathways with incentives for permanent residency.

For Families: Partner and Parent Visas

Migration is not just about work opportunities. For families, options include:

• Australian Partner Visa for partners of Australian citizens or permanent residents
• Parent Visa Australia and Contributory Parent Visa for parents wishing to join children in Australia

Our immigration specialists and migration agents in Sydney provide personalised advice on which pathway best suits your circumstances.

Why Work with an Immigration Specialist in Sydney?

Applying for an Australia visa application can be complex. Whether it’s a work visa Australia, a sponsorship visa, or a tourist visa Australia, having experienced immigration agents ensures that your application is managed correctly and increases your chances of success.

At AustraliaMigrate, our team of immigration specialists in Sydney provides support across all visa types:

• Employer Sponsored Visas Australia
• Partner Visas Australia
• Student Visa Australia
• National Innovation Visa Australia

We help individuals and families navigate the Australia immigration visa process with clarity and confidence.

Key Takeaway

Angel’s story is not just about plumbing. It’s about resilience, opportunity, and breaking barriers. Just as she defied gender stereotypes to pursue her trade, many skilled workers—male and female—can seize opportunities in Australia’s immigration system to build new futures.

With the right guidance from a trusted migration agent in Sydney, you can take the first step toward your dream job and life in Australia.