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SKILLED WORKER CONNECT

How to Get a Job in Australia as a Carpenter or Builder Without Formal Qualifications.

  • Mar 5
  • 5 min read
Blue and white logo featuring two abstract figures with hard hats and an infinity symbol. Text reads "SKILLED WORKER CONNECT".

Many skilled tradespeople in Zimbabwe and other countries may not have formal qualifications but possess years of hands-on experience in their respective trades. If you are a carpenter or builder with extensive experience but no formal certification, you might be wondering if it is possible to secure a job in Australia. The answer is yes! Australia values skills and experience, which is why Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) was established. This government initiative allows experienced workers to convert their informal training and work experience into a recognized qualification, opening doors to employment and visa sponsorship opportunities.

In this blog post, we will break down the requirements and process for obtaining a formal trade qualification through Trades Recognition Australai (TRA), the necessary documentation, the assessment stages, associated costs, and how Skilled Worker Connect can assist you in securing employment and managing the placement process effectively.

Understanding the TRA Process for Carpenters or Builders in Australia.

TRA is designed to assess and recognize the skills of workers who have gained experience outside of Australia. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who have been working in their trade for years but do not hold a formal qualification.


Eligibility Requirements

If you do not have a trade-related qualification, you need to meet the following requirements:

  • A minimum of five years of work experience in your trade.

  • Proof that you have been working in your trade for at least 12 months out of the last 36 months. This must be paid experience, meaning you should have been employed in the role and earning a salary or on the payrol.

  • Submission of proof of employment, which can include:

    • Employment contracts

    • Project portfolios

    • Payslips

    • Bank statements

    • Tax declaration files

  • Proof of service, which can be provided through letters of service from past or current employers. These letters must be on an official company letterhead and signed by a management representative or someone of authority in the claimed companies.


TRA Assessment Process

Now let us take you through the process of converting your exerience and practical training into a recognized certification through the Trades Rcoginition Australia (TRA)! Once you have gathered all the necessary documentation, you will go through a two-stage assessment process:


Stage 1: Document Assessment

In this stage, TRA evaluates your submitted documents to verify that they meet the required standards. This is where professional assistance from agencies like Skilled Worker Connect can be invaluable. Skilled Worker Connect assists with:

  • Formatting and standardizing documents

  • Ensuring all required documents are complete

  • Submitting a "decision-ready application" to avoid delays and requests for additional information

If your documents are approved, you will move on to the second stage of the assessment.

Stage 2: Technical Assessment

At this stage, you will undergo a technical interview conducted by an assigned case officer who is a subject matter expert in your industry. This interview lasts approximately two hours and is designed to assess your practical knowledge and skills.

For builders, the interview may include:

  • Plan interpretation

  • Siting and mapping

  • Industry regulations and best practices


There is no need to worry about this stage if you have hands-on experience. Assessors understand that many skilled workers have not had formal training, so they conduct the interview in a way that allows you to demonstrate your practical skills and knowledge.


TRA Assessment Fees

The TRA assessment process involves two main fees:

  • Stage 1: Document Assessment – AUD $1,100

  • Stage 2: Technical Interview – AUD $2,100

Total cost: AUD $3,200 (approximately USD $2,000)

For those who need a quicker turnaround, Priority Processing is available for an additional AUD $600, which ensures that results are provided within 7-14 days.


How Skilled Worker Connect Helps You Beyond TRA

Once you obtain your TRA qualification, Skilled Worker Connect goes beyond document preparation by guiding you through the entire job placement process, ensuring you secure employment in Australia. The placement process takes between 14-19 weeks, depending on the availability of the necessary documentation.


Skilled Worker Connect Placement Process


Step 1: Candidate Submission & Engagement

  • You begin by submitting your documents to Skilled Worker Connect and signing a placement contract.

  • Upon payment of the $500 administrative fee (paid in three installments: $150 engagement, $200 document verification, and $150 contract approval), you receive access to a candidate portal.

  • The portal allows you to track your progress and upload additional documents as needed.


Step 2: Document Filing & Compilation

  • The agency reviews all submitted documents, ensuring they meet formatting and quality standards.

  • Missing documents are flagged early to avoid delays in profile creation.


Step 3: CV Formatting & Profile Creation

  • Skilled Worker Connect formats your CV to meet employer standards.

  • Your profile is uploaded to the agency’s employer-accessible database.

  • Employers will review your profile when considering candidates for jobs.


Step 4: Internal Technical Interview & Job Interviews

  • You go through an internal technical interview with Skilled Worker Connect to assess your communication and technical skills.

  • Once approved, your profile is shared with potential employers.

  • Shortlisted candidates go through job interviews facilitated by the agency.


Step 5: Contract Signing & Employer Nomination

  • Upon passing interviews, you receive a job offer and sign an employment contract.

  • The employer submits your nomination for visa processing, which can take up to six weeks.


Step 6: Visa Application & Relocation

  • Once the nomination is approved, the visa process begins. Timelines vary based on visa type (e.g., 482, 186, 400, DAMA).

  • Candidates are advised to have at least $1,000 set aside for medicals and other costs.

  • After visa approval, relocation arrangements commence. Candidates are responsible for their own travel expenses unless covered by the employer.


Step 7: Final Placement & Probation

  • Candidates are monitored for 90-120 days of probation.

  • The agency checks in after seven days of employment to ensure a smooth transition.

  • If probation is unsuccessful, candidates have 60 days to find a new employer or return home.


Why Choose Skilled Worker Connect?

  • End-to-End Support: From documentation to job placement and visa assistance.

  • Candidate Portal: Track progress, upload documents, and receive real-time updates.

  • Employer Network: Access to a wide range of employers in construction, engineering, and mining.

  • Coaching & Preparation: Internal technical interviews and job interview training.

  • Affordable Fees: TRA assistance for USD $300, plus flexible installment payments for placement services.

Take the First Step Today!

If you have at least five years of experience as a carpenter or builder and want to work in Australia, Skilled Worker Connect can make it happen.

Alterntively, you can Whatsapp us on +263787088444



Your skills deserve global recognition—lets get you connected to the right employer!


 
 
 

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