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Top Skilled Jobs in Australia Offering Visa Sponsorships with Salaries Over $80,000

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Australia continues to be a prime destination for skilled professionals seeking high-paying jobs with visa sponsorship opportunities. With a strong economy, diverse industries, and a high quality of life, the country offers numerous roles across various sectors that not only provide competitive salaries but also support skilled migration pathways.

This guide highlights some of the top in-demand professions in 2025 that offer salaries exceeding AUD $80,000 and are open to international talent through visa sponsorship.

1. Electricians

  • Average Salary: Up to AUD $200,000 annually

  • Visa Pathways: Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482), Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

Australia is experiencing a significant shortage of electricians, particularly in remote areas and industries like renewable energy and advanced manufacturing. Fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) roles in the outback offer lucrative salaries, with some positions paying up to AUD $200,000 per year. The demand is driven by the country’s transition to renewable energy sources and the need for infrastructure development.

2. Plumbers

  • Average Salary: AUD $80,000 – $120,000 annually

  • Visa Pathways: Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190), Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)

Plumbers are in high demand due to Australia’s housing boom and infrastructure projects. Despite their importance, there have been concerns about their exclusion from certain priority visa lists, prompting industry groups to advocate for their inclusion to meet the country’s construction targets.

3. Childcare Workers

  • Average Salary: Up to AUD $150,000 annually in remote areas

  • Visa Pathways: TSS Visa (Subclass 482), Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (Subclass 187)

Remote regions in Western Australia, such as Pilbara and Kimberley, are offering childcare workers salaries up to AUD $150,000, along with benefits like free accommodation and meals. These incentives aim to attract workers to support mining communities facing staffing shortages in childcare services.

4. Engineers (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical)

  • Average Salary: AUD $90,000 – $130,000 annually

  • Visa Pathways: Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

Engineers are essential to Australia’s infrastructure and development projects. The country’s commitment to building 1.2 million homes by 2030 has heightened the demand for engineers across various specializations. Visa pathways are available for qualified professionals to fill these critical roles.

5. Healthcare Professionals (Doctors, Nurses, Allied Health)

  • Average Salary: AUD $85,000 – $150,000 annually

  • Visa Pathways: TSS Visa (Subclass 482), Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

Australia’s healthcare sector consistently seeks skilled professionals to address shortages, especially in rural and regional areas. Doctors, nurses, and allied health workers are in demand, with various visa options available to facilitate their migration and employment.

6. IT Professionals (Software Developers, Cybersecurity Experts)

  • Average Salary: AUD $100,000 – $140,000 annually

  • Visa Pathways: Global Talent Visa (Subclass 858), TSS Visa (Subclass 482)

The tech industry in Australia is rapidly growing, with a strong need for IT professionals, including software developers and cybersecurity experts. The Global Talent Visa offers a streamlined pathway for highly skilled individuals in these fields to work and live in Australia.

7. Teachers

  • Average Salary: AUD $88,994 annually

  • Visa Pathways: Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

Teachers, particularly in STEM subjects and special education, are in demand across Australia. Applicants must have their qualifications assessed and meet state-specific registration requirements.

8. Chefs

  • Average Salary: AUD $80,000 – $100,000 annually

  • Visa Pathways: TSS Visa (Subclass 482), Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

The hospitality industry is experiencing a shortage of skilled chefs, prompting calls for their inclusion in priority visa lists. Opportunities are available in both urban centers and regional areas, with competitive salaries and visa sponsorship options.

9. Construction Project Managers

  • Average Salary: AUD $100,000 – $150,000 annually

  • Visa Pathways: Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)

With ambitious infrastructure goals, Australia requires experienced construction project managers to oversee large-scale developments. These roles offer high salaries and are critical to meeting national construction targets.

10. Aged Care Workers

  • Average Salary: AUD $80,000 – $100,000 annually

  • Visa Pathways: TSS Visa (Subclass 482), Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (Subclass 187)

The aged care sector is expanding to meet the needs of Australia’s aging population. Skilled workers in this field are in demand, with opportunities for visa sponsorship and employment in various regions.

Navigating the Visa Application Process

Australia offers multiple visa options for skilled workers:

  • Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482): Allows employers to sponsor skilled workers for temporary positions.

  • Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): For invited workers with skills needed in Australia, allowing permanent residency without employer sponsorship.

  • Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): Requires nomination by an Australian state or territory government.

  • Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186): For skilled workers nominated by an employer for permanent residency.

  • Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (Subclass 187): For skilled workers nominated by an employer in regional Australia.

  • Global Talent Visa (Subclass 858): Targets highly skilled individuals in specific sectors.

Applicants must meet specific criteria, including skills assessments, English language proficiency, and health and character requirements. Processing times and requirements vary by visa type and individual circumstances.

Final Thoughts

Australia’s commitment to attracting skilled professionals presents a wealth of opportunities for those seeking high-paying jobs with visa sponsorship. By aligning your skills with in-demand occupations and navigating the appropriate visa pathways, you can embark on a rewarding career and lifestyle in Australia.

For the most current information and to begin your application process, visit the official Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website