The Australian state is experiencing a boom period of growth on the back of multi-million pound government investment in critical mineral and tech projects.

That has led to an urgent need for more housing in Western Australia – and there are not enough construction professionals there to meet the demand.

As a result, the government of Western Australia (WA) has introduced an AUS$11million (£5.8 million) visa subsidy scheme in a bid to attract construction workers from Britain and Ireland as quickly as possible.

The Construction Visa Subsidy Programme (CVSP) will see those who decide to move to WA awarded up to £6,000 to help cover the costs of applying and relocating.

It is hoped the package, which will provide workers with the opportunity to earn higher wages and enjoy a better cost of living, will see WA plug the skill gaps it currently has across multiple sectors.

Recruitment efforts and promotion of the CVSP is targeting skilled workers in the following professions as a priority:

  • Civil Engineer
  • Structural Engineer
  • Civil Engineering Draftsperson
  • Plumber (General)
  • Carpenter
  • Airconditioning and Refrigeration Mechanic
  • Electrician
  • Glazier
  • Wall and Floor Tiler
  • Concreter 
  • Floor finishers
  • Painting trades workers
  • Plasterers
  • Cabinetmakers
  • Carpenters and Joiners

John Carey, the Western Australian Minister for Planning; Lands; Housing and Homelessness, is visiting the UK this week to help drive interest from British workers into making the move.

He will highlight the appeal of the state, where energy bills are half the UK’s, wages are higher, houses are bigger, and the climate is more appealing.

rits are being targeted for their skills and experience at a time when the cost of living crisis is having a major impact on the quality of life for workers in the UK.

Minister Carey will spread the message as he meets with construction officials, and visits large projects in London, Birmingham, Nottingham, Glasgow, and Edinburgh.

He will also gain insights in the UK to help the WA government deliver the building and infrastructure work it needs to satisfy demand.

Workers interested in making the switch Down Under should register on the Western Australia – It’s Like No Other website: likenoother.wa.gov.au/work-in-wa/#CVSP