Australia’s construction industry is one of the highest-paying sectors in the country, contributing billions of dollars annually to the economy. Due to massive infrastructure projects, housing developments, and mining expansions, skilled construction workers are in high demand—especially foreign professionals.
If you are looking for wealthy construction jobs in Australia with high salaries, visa sponsorship opportunities, and long-term career prospects, this guide is for you.
In this article, you’ll discover the top 12 highest-paying construction jobs in Australia for foreigners, including average salaries, job roles, visa pathways, and skill requirements.
Why Construction Jobs in Australia Pay So Well
Australia faces a severe skills shortage in construction, engineering, and trades. As a result:
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Salaries are significantly higher than global averages
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Overtime and site allowances boost income
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Many employers offer visa sponsorship
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Strong job security and permanent residency pathways
Foreign workers with experience, certifications, or trade skills are highly valued.
1. Construction Project Manager
Average Salary: AUD $140,000 – $220,000 per year
Construction Project Managers oversee large-scale commercial, residential, and infrastructure projects. This is one of the wealthiest construction jobs in Australia.
Key Responsibilities:
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Managing budgets and timelines
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Supervising contractors and engineers
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Ensuring compliance with Australian safety laws
Why It’s High Paying:
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High responsibility
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Skills shortage across major cities
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Often eligible for employer-sponsored visas
2. Civil Engineer (Construction Sector)
Average Salary: AUD $95,000 – $160,000 per year
Civil engineers are critical to Australia’s roads, bridges, railways, and water systems.
In-Demand Areas:
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Infrastructure development
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Mining construction projects
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Urban expansion
Visa Advantage:
Civil engineering is frequently listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List, making it attractive for foreigners.
3. Construction Site Manager
Average Salary: AUD $110,000 – $180,000 per year
Site managers handle daily operations on construction sites and ensure projects meet safety and quality standards.
Why Foreigners Earn Well:
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Chronic shortage of experienced site managers
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High risk and accountability
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Premium pay for regional projects
4. Quantity Surveyor
Average Salary: AUD $90,000 – $170,000 per year
Quantity Surveyors manage project costs, contracts, and procurement.
Why It’s Lucrative:
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Specialized skill set
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High demand in commercial construction
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Minimal physical labor, high financial responsibility
5. Construction Superintendent
Average Salary: AUD $130,000 – $200,000 per year
This senior role coordinates multiple teams and ensures projects are delivered on time.
6. Mining Construction Manager
Average Salary: AUD $160,000 – $280,000 per year
Mining construction roles are among the highest paid construction jobs in Australia.
Why Salaries Are Extremely High:
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Remote locations
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Fly-In Fly-Out (FIFO) work
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Long shifts and high-risk environments
Foreigners with mining experience earn premium wages.
7. Structural Engineer
Average Salary: AUD $100,000 – $180,000 per year
Structural engineers design and assess buildings, bridges, and towers.
Benefits for Foreign Workers:
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Skills transferable globally
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High demand for licensed professionals
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Strong PR eligibility
8. Electrical Construction Manager
Average Salary: AUD $120,000 – $190,000 per year
Electrical managers oversee power installations in commercial and industrial projects.
Why It’s Wealthy:
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Specialized licensing requirements
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Growing renewable energy sector
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High employer sponsorship rates
9. Construction Safety Manager (WHS)
Average Salary: AUD $95,000 – $150,000 per year
Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) managers are mandatory on large Australian construction sites.
Why It Pays Well:
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Legal compliance requirement
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High liability role
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Consistent demand nationwide
10. Commercial Builder / Licensed Builder
Average Salary: AUD $120,000 – $250,000+ per year
Licensed builders who run or manage large projects can earn six figures annually.
Income Growth:
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Contract-based payments
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Profit sharing
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Private development projects
11. Heavy Equipment Construction Manager
Average Salary: AUD $110,000 – $180,000 per year
This role oversees machinery operations such as cranes, excavators, and loaders.
High-Paying Factors:
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Equipment safety responsibility
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Mining and infrastructure projects
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Shortage of qualified supervisors
12. Construction Estimator
Average Salary: AUD $90,000 – $160,000 per year
Estimators calculate project costs and bids.
Why It’s Ideal for Foreigners:
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Office-based role
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Strong demand
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Less physical labor
Visa Options for Foreign Construction Workers in Australia
Foreigners can legally work in Australia through:
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Temporary Skill Shortage (Subclass 482) Visa
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Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
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Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
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Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
Many construction employers actively sponsor visas due to labor shortages.
How to Increase Your Chances of Getting Hired
To secure a high-paying construction job in Australia:
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Get your qualifications assessed
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Obtain relevant Australian certifications
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Apply to regional projects (higher sponsorship chances)
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Work with licensed recruitment agencies
Final Thoughts: Is Australia Worth It for Construction Workers?
Absolutely. Australia offers:
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World-class salaries
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Strong worker protections
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High quality of life
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Permanent residency opportunities
If you’re a foreigner seeking wealthy construction jobs, Australia remains one of the best countries in the world to build a profitable career.
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