Australia is experiencing strong demand for qualified bricklayers, creating real opportunities for skilled tradespeople overseas. With ongoing housing shortages, major infrastructure projects, and workforce gaps across the construction sector, bricklayers are in a favourable position in 2026.
For overseas workers, the pathway to Australia typically involves either employer sponsorship or skilled migration through state or regional nomination. Opportunities exist in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth, as well as in regional areas where visa options may be even more accessible.
In this guide, we explain where bricklayers are most in demand, which visa pathways are available, and how to position yourself for job offers and sponsorship in Australia.
Are Bricklayers in Demand in Australia?
Yes — bricklayers are in consistent demand across Australia.
Several factors are driving shortages:
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A national housing supply crisis, with governments pushing to increase residential construction.
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Large-scale infrastructure and commercial development projects.
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An ageing domestic construction workforce, with fewer apprentices entering traditional trades.
The occupation Bricklayer (ANZSCO 331111) appears on Australia’s skilled occupation lists, making it eligible for multiple skilled visa pathways.
Demand is particularly strong in high-growth urban centres and expanding regional corridors. Employers are increasingly open to sponsoring overseas tradespeople where local recruitment efforts have failed.
For skilled bricklayers with solid experience and recognised qualifications, Australia presents genuine long-term career opportunities.
Bricklayer Australia Visa Options
There are several visa pathways available to bricklayers in 2026.
Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
A points-tested permanent visa that does not require employer or state sponsorship. Applicants must meet the required points threshold and receive an invitation to apply. Competition can be high.
Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
A permanent visa requiring nomination from an Australian state or territory government. States nominate based on local labour shortages and may prioritise construction trades.
Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional Visa
A provisional regional visa valid for 5 years, leading to permanent residency through the Subclass 191. This pathway is often more accessible and offers additional points for regional nomination.
Subclass 482 – Skills in Demand Visa
An employer-sponsored temporary visa allowing bricklayers to work in Australia for an approved employer. This is a common pathway when an Australian business offers sponsorship.
Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme
A permanent employer-sponsored visa. Many bricklayers transition from a 482 visa to a 186 permanent residency pathway.
In practice, bricklayers most commonly migrate via employer sponsorship (482 → 186) or through state/regional nomination (190 or 491). The best option depends on your experience, English level, and whether you have secured a job offer.
Skills Assessment & Licensing for Bricklayers
Before applying for most skilled migration visas, bricklayers must complete a skills assessment through Trades Recognition Australia (TRA).
Typical requirements include:
- A recognised trade qualification equivalent to an Australian Certificate III in Bricklaying.
- Relevant full-time work experience (often12 months in the last 3 years).
- Evidence of English language proficiency for visa purposes.
- Practical assessment or documentary evidence depending on the pathway.
Some applicants may be required to complete gap training or a practical demonstration of skills if qualifications are not directly comparable to Australian standards.
Bricklayers generally do not require specific state licensing to work. However, all workers must comply with Australian workplace safety requirements, including holding a valid White Card (construction induction card).
Meeting TRA requirements early is critical, particularly for applicants targeting points-tested visas.
Bricklaying Jobs in Sydney, Melbourne & Perth
Bricklaying Jobs in Sydney, Australia
Sydney continues to experience high construction activity driven by residential developments and urban expansion. Bricklayers are in demand across suburban housing projects and medium-density builds.
Wages can be competitive, but Sydney’s cost of living is also higher than other cities. Employer sponsorship opportunities exist, particularly through established residential builders and labour hire firms.
Bricklayer Jobs in Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne’s strong population growth has sustained demand for housing and commercial construction. Bricklayers are needed across new estates, apartment developments, and infrastructure upgrades.
The Victorian market offers broad opportunities, and regional areas outside Melbourne may provide additional migration advantages through state nomination.
Bricklaying Jobs in Perth, Australia
Perth has seen renewed construction growth, including mining-adjacent infrastructure and residential expansion. Bricklayers in Western Australia often report strong earning potential.
Regional Western Australia can be particularly attractive for visa sponsorship and state nomination, as workforce shortages are more acute.
In many cases, regional areas near major cities provide better migration outcomes than metropolitan centres.
Bricklaying Jobs With Visa Sponsorship
Visa sponsorship allows an Australian employer to nominate a skilled bricklayer to work in their business.
Industries most likely to sponsor include:
- Residential building companies
- Labour hire construction firms
- Regional construction businesses
To improve your chances of sponsorship:
- Complete your skills assessment early.
- Be flexible about working in regional areas.
- Ensure your English test results meet visa requirements.
- Work with a registered migration advisor to structure the nomination correctly.
Employer sponsorship can be a fast and practical pathway to living and working in Australia.
Bricklayer Salaries & Working Conditions in Australia
Bricklayers in Australia typically earn between AUD $70,000 and $100,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and overtime.
Regional roles or positions with significant overtime can exceed AUD $110,000 annually.
Construction worksites often operate under enterprise agreements or union-negotiated conditions, ensuring regulated pay rates, overtime entitlements, and workplace protections.
Australian employment law provides strong safeguards around minimum wages, safe working conditions, superannuation contributions, and leave entitlements.
For experienced bricklayers, Australia offers both financial stability and structured workplace protections.
How AVIE Can Help Bricklayers Migrate to Australia
Australia’s demand for qualified bricklayers remains strong in 2026, particularly in growing metropolitan and regional areas.
At AVIE, we assist tradespeople with:
- TRA skills assessment preparation
- Visa strategy tailored to your circumstances
- Employer sponsorship pathways
- State and regional migration options
Whether you are seeking a sponsored role or exploring independent skilled migration, the right advice can significantly improve your success.
Speak with an AVIE migration specialist today to explore your bricklayer visa options and take the next step toward working in Australia.