Last Updated: 30th March 2026
If you are currently studying or planning to study construction, Western Australia (WA) is offering up to AUD $10,000 in visa support to attract skilled workers into the state.
At the same time, this program presents a valuable opportunity for employers in the construction industry to significantly reduce the cost of sponsoring overseas workers – helping businesses secure much-needed talent while lowering upfront migration expenses.
The Construction Visa Subsidy Program (CVSP) is a government initiative designed to reduce the cost of migration for construction professionals and employers alike. The subsidy applies across multiple pathways, including employer-sponsored visas and skilled migration programs, and is available to both onshore and offshore applicants.
For students, skilled workers, and employers, this program not only reduces visa-related costs but also signals strong demand for construction professionals in Western Australia — making it a highly strategic state to consider for study, employment, and long-term migration pathways.
Overview of the Construction Visa Subsidy Program
The Construction Visa Subsidy Program provides financial assistance to support visa application costs for eligible applicants and employers within the construction industry.
The subsidy applies across both employer-sponsored and skill migration pathways:
| Pathway | Applicant Type | Total Grant (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Employer Sponsored (482, 494,186 visa) | Employer | $10,000 |
| Skilled Migration (190 & 491 visa) | Onshore Applicants | $5,000 |
| Skilled Migration (190 & 491 vsa) | Offshore Applicants | $10,000 |
The exact amount granted depends on the visa type and individual circumstances, but the program is designed to reduce financial barriers for both skilled workers and employers.
Who Is This Program Suitable For?
The Construction Visa Subsidy Program is particularly beneficial for several groups:
Onshore Graduates in Australia
Graduates currently in Australia who are working toward skilled migration may benefit from reduced visa costs and increased support when securing employment in Western Australia.
Offshore Skilled Workers
Experienced construction professionals overseas can leverage this program to lower the financial barrier of migration while improving their chances of employment in a high-demand sector.
Future International Students
Students considering studying in Australia – particularly in construction-related fields may find Western Australia an attractive option due to:
- Strong demand for construction occupations
- Government support through subsidy programs
- Clearer pathways to employment and migration
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Eligibility Requirements
The eligibility requirements under the Construction Visa Subsidy Program differ depending on the migration pathway.
Skilled Migration Path
To be eligible under the Skilled Migration Path, applicants must:
- have been granted a visa through the Western Australian State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP) under subclass 190 or 491;
- be employed by a business undertaking building and construction work in Western Australia; and
- be working in an eligible occupation.
Employer Sponsored Path
To be eligible under the Employer Sponsored Path, employers must:
- sponsor a skilled migrant under subclass 482, 494, or 186; and
- be undertaking building and construction work in Western Australia, with the role falling under an eligible occupation.
As part of the program, the occupation must also be listed as eligible under the Construction Visa Subsidy Program requirements for both pathways.
Eligible Occupations
Some of the popular occupations includes:
- Carpenters and Joiners
- Construction Project Managers
- Floor Finisher
- Painting Trades Worker
- Cabler (data and telecommunications)
- Bricklayers and Stonemasons
- Landscape Gardener
xem thêm Bấm vào đây for the full list of eligible occupations.
Step Overview & Payment Structure
The application and payment process under the Construction Visa Subsidy Program differs depending on whether you are applying through the Employer Sponsored Stream or the State Nominated (Skilled Migration) Stream.
Employer Sponsored Stream
For employers looking to sponsor overseas workers, the process generally follows these steps:
- 1
Lodge a Milestone 1 Claim:
Employers can begin by submitting an initial claim under the program. - 2
Identify and Nominate a Skilled Worker:
Secure a suitable overseas or onshore candidate in an eligible construction occupation. - 3
Apply to Become an Approved Sponsor:
If not already approved, the business must apply for sponsorship approval through the Department of Home Affairs. - 4
Support the Visa Application Process:
Assist the nominated worker in lodging their visa application (e.g. subclass 482, 494, or 186). - 5
Lodge a Milestone 2 Claim:
Once your skilled migrant’s visa has been granted, a second claim can be submitted. - 6
Lodge a Milestone 3 Claim:
Once your skilled migrant has commenced employment with you, a third claim can be submitted.
State Nominated (Skilled Migration) Stream
For skilled workers applying through state nomination, the process is slightly different:
- 1
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Lodge an EOI through SkillSelect and indicate interest in Western Australia. - 2
Secure Employment in Western Australia
Connect with an employer in WA within the construction sector. - 3
Obtain Visa Approval
Progress through the visa application process and receive approval under subclass 190 or 491. - 4
Lodge Milestone 1 Claim
Submit your first claim after meeting initial eligibility conditions. - 5
Lodge Milestone 2 Claim
Final payment is made after fulfilling all program requirements, such as employment outcomes.
Start Planning Your Pathway
Western Australia’s Construction Visa Subsidy Program provides a clear signal of the state’s commitment to attracting skilled construction workers and supporting long-term migration outcomes.
Whether you are already working in construction, currently studying, or planning your future pathway, understanding how this program fits into your migration strategy is key.
Our team works closely with skilled workers and students to:
- Assess eligibility for skilled migration and state nomination
- Identify suitable study and career pathways aligned with PR outcomes
- Guide applicants through visa processes with clarity and confidence
If you are considering your next step, now is the time to plan strategically.
Contact us to explore your pathway to Australia through Western Australia’s construction opportunities.
