Pathway 1

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There are four steps under this assessment process for applicants who do not have a relevant Australian qualification:

Locate and select an RTO to conduct your skills assessment through the RTO Finder.

You must submit documentary evidence to a TRA-approved RTO for assessment. The documentary evidence must be decision ready* and include of your identity, skills and experience. The RTO you choose will tell you what documentation is required.

You will receive an invitation to take part in a technical assessment. This assessment will be with one of the RTO's assessors. You will be invited if your evidence must shows that you have the necessary skills and experience in your occupation.

"Decision ready*" means:

  1. all documents requested by the RTO are provided when an application is lodged

  2. employment statements conform to the requirements set out in the applicant guidelines 

You will be required to take part in a technical assessment of your skills and knowledge. The assessment will be a conducted by a qualified Australian tradesperson in your occupation.

The assessor will focus on collecting evidence. This evidence will decide if you meet the requirements of the relevant Australian Training Package qualification.

This will involve a technical interview and may involve

  • a practical demonstration of your skills and/or
  • gathering evidence from third parties (e.g. your employers or other referees).

Practical demonstrations of skills are mandatory for the licensed occupations of:

  • Airconditioning and
  • Refrigeration Mechanic,
  • Electrician (General),
  • Electrician (Special Class)
  • Plumber (General).

The RTO you select will discuss the assessment requirements with you before conducting the assessment.

All technical assessments will be conducted in English without help. Interpreters are NOT permitted.

If successful, you will receive a skilled migration outcome letter. This can be presented to the Department of Home Affairs with your visa application.

Non-licensed occupation applicants will be awarded the relevant Australian trade qualification.

Applicants in the following licensed occupations will receive an Offshore Technical Skills Record (OTSR):

  • Airconditioning and Refrigeration Mechanic,
  • Electrician (General) and (Special Class),
  • Plumber (General)

The OTSR is enough evidence to apply for a provisional licence. Applicants can apply with Australian State and Territory licensing authorities.

To receive a

  • current, identified Australian occupation licence and/or
  • relevant Australian qualification

You must undertake:

  • further Australian content training
  • a period of supervised employment in Australian.

The training covers Australian-specific knowledge, including:

  • workplace health and safety regulations,
  • codes of practice and
  • other Australian standards.

For more information, see the Licensing page.

If unsuccessful, the RTO will tell you of the gaps identified in your skills and experience.