Australia is currently experiencing a nationwide shortage of qualified mechanical fitters, and this demand has opened massive opportunities for skilled workers seeking visa sponsorship jobs with salaries reaching up to AUD $90,000 per year.
If you’re a tradesperson or industrial technician looking to relocate to Australia, this guide covers everything you need to know — job details, sponsorship options, eligibility requirements, and the visa pathways that lead to permanent residency (PR).
Why Australia Needs Mechanical Fitters in 2025
Australia’s manufacturing, mining, energy, and construction sectors are rapidly expanding. With ongoing projects in Queensland, Western Australia, and New South Wales, employers are struggling to fill essential technical roles — especially mechanical fitters.
According to the Australian Government’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL), “Mechanical Fitter (ANZSCO 323214)” is currently in high demand under the Skilled Migration Program and Employer-Sponsored Visa categories, including:
These visas allow foreign workers to live, work, and eventually apply for permanent residency in Australia.
Salary Range for Mechanical Fitters in Australia
Experience Level
Average Annual Salary (AUD)
Sponsorship Availability
Entry-Level (1–3 yrs)
$65,000 – $75,000
✅ Yes
Mid-Level (3–5 yrs)
$75,000 – $90,000
✅ Yes
Senior/Experienced
$90,000 – $120,000+
✅ Yes
Source: SEEK, Indeed Australia, and the Australian Labour Market Insights (2025).
Salaries may increase depending on your location, industry (mining or oil & gas roles pay higher), and overtime opportunities.
Top Industries Hiring Mechanical Fitters
Mechanical fitters play a vital role in keeping Australia’s industrial systems running efficiently. The following sectors are actively hiring with visa sponsorship:
Mining & Resource Projects (WA, QLD)
Energy & Renewable Power Plants
Manufacturing and Fabrication Plants
Food & Beverage Production Facilities
Heavy Machinery & Maintenance Workshops
Oil, Gas & Petrochemical Industries
Top Employers Offering Visa Sponsorship for Mechanical Fitters
Some reputable companies and regional employers currently sponsoring foreign mechanical fitters include:
BHP – Mining and maintenance roles in Western Australia
Rio Tinto – Heavy machinery maintenance
Downer Group – Engineering and infrastructure projects
UGL Limited – Power and renewable energy sectors
Ventia – Construction and industrial maintenance
WorkPac – Labour hire and regional employment sponsor
1. Subclass 482 – Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa
Employer-sponsored for up to 4 years.
Eligible for PR via the Subclass 186 (ENS) after 3 years.
Requires relevant qualification + 2 years’ work experience.
2. Subclass 494 – Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa
Live and work in a regional area (outside Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane).
Pathway to Permanent Residence (Subclass 191) after 3 years.
Often includes relocation assistance and family sponsorship.
3. Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme
Direct permanent residency visa.
Employer must nominate you for a full-time role.
Typically available to experienced mechanical fitters in Australia.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for mechanical fitter roles with sponsorship, you generally need:
A Certificate III or IV in Mechanical Engineering or Fitting & Turning
Minimum 3 years of industry experience
English proficiency (IELTS 6.0+ or equivalent)
Valid skills assessment from Trades Recognition Australia (TRA)
Clean medical and police certificates
Relocation & Sponsorship Benefits
Most employers offering visa sponsorship include additional benefits such as:
Paid flight tickets to Australia
Temporary accommodation support
Assistance with work visa applications
Tools and equipment allowances
Relocation support for family members
Career Growth and PR Opportunities
Once you secure employment under a sponsored visa, you can transition to permanent residency after three years, provided you:
Maintain full-time work with your sponsor,
Meet income and residency requirements, and
Continue working in a regional or eligible occupation area.
After PR, you gain access to Medicare, education benefits, and citizenship eligibility after four years.
How to Apply for Sponsored Mechanical Fitter Jobs
Search regional job portals like SEEK, Indeed, and JobActive.
Filter by keyword: “visa sponsorship” or “relocation assistance.”
Prepare your Australian-style resume (CV) — clear, short, and focused on technical skills.
Obtain a skills assessment from TRA before applying.
Apply directly to employers offering sponsorship under 482 or 494 visas.
Attend virtual interviews — most employers conduct remote assessments.
Best Australian Regions for Mechanical Fitter Jobs (2025)
Region
Typical Pay (AUD)
Visa Sponsorship Rate
Western Australia (Perth, Pilbara)
$85,000 – $120,000
High
Queensland (Mackay, Townsville)
$80,000 – $110,000
High
South Australia (Adelaide, Port Augusta)
$75,000 – $95,000
Moderate
New South Wales (Newcastle, Orange)
$70,000 – $90,000
Moderate
Pro Tips to Increase Approval and Sponsorship Chances
✅ Obtain a valid TRA skills assessment before applying.
✅ Showcase hands-on experience in your CV.
✅ Target regional job offers — they’re more likely to sponsor.
✅ Take IELTS or PTE Academic early.
✅ Join LinkedIn groups like “Australian Skilled Workers” and “Trades Jobs with Sponsorship.”
Final Thoughts
Australia’s $90,000 Mechanical Fitter Visa Sponsorship Program represents a golden opportunity for qualified tradespeople aiming to work, earn, and settle in one of the world’s most developed economies.
With ongoing infrastructure investments and regional skill shortages, 2025 is the best time to apply for a mechanical fitter job in Australia with full visa sponsorship and pathway to permanent residency.
Start your journey today — explore job listings on SEEK and JobActive, or connect with registered migration agents for personalized support.