Construction Visa Subsidy Program Australia – Are you considering a career in the Australian construction industry? Or perhaps you are already a part of it and want to explore opportunities for growth and financial support? In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of the Construction Visa Subsidy Program in Australia. From eligibility criteria to benefits and frequently asked questions, we have got you covered.
Construction Visa Subsidy Program
The State Government is investing in initiatives to ensure locals are training for jobs in the future, but there is a need to retain skilled migrants in WA and for interstate and overseas workers who have the skills needed by WA businesses today.
The new Construction Visa Subsidy Program (CVSP) is supporting Western Australian construction businesses to fill the demand for a skilled workforce.
The program will provide grant payments of up to $10,000 to support skilled migration visa pathways for workers and help offset expenses such as migration agent fees, visa application fees, and relocation costs.
Construction Visa Subsidy Program Australia
- CONSTRUCTION VISA SUBSIDY PROGRAM
- ELIGIBILITY FOR THE CONSTRUCTION VISA SUBSIDY PROGRAM
- PAYMENTS
- CLAIM PROCESS
- TAXATION
- DEBT MANAGEMENT
- COLLECTION OF PERSONAL INFORMATION
- REVIEW OF DECISIONS
- DISCLAIMER INDEMNITY AND WARRANTY
- CHANGES TO THE CONSTRUCTION VISA SUBSIDY PROGRAM
- AUDITS
- STAKEHOLDER FEEDBACK
1. CONSTRUCTION VISA SUBSIDY PROGRAM
The Construction Visa Subsidy Program (CVSP) has been introduced to provide financial support for employers and independent skilled migrants to assist them in connecting with employment opportunities in the Western Australian building and construction industry.
The CVSP is administered by the WA Department of Training and Workforce Development (DTWD), and provides grant payments of up to $10,000 to support skilled migration visa pathways for up to 1,100 overseas workers. Grants may be used to offset costs such as migration agent fees, visa application fees and relocation expenses.
The CVSP will commence on or after 1 July for a period of 12 months, or until places are fully allocated.
By participating in the CVSP, applicants agree to comply with the Terms and Conditions. The Terms and Conditions, including all appendices hereto, together with any other documents having contractual force, shall constitute and be known as “this Agreement”. Please note that terms used in one document and expressly or impliedly defined in another shall have the meanings ascribed to them in that other document.
2. ELIGIBILITY FOR THE CONSTRUCTION VISA SUBSIDY PROGRAM
- Employer Sponsored Stream
To be eligible for the Employer Sponsored Stream, employers must:
- sponsor skilled migrants in one of the following visa subclasses:
- 482 – Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa – medium term (up to 4 years) or short term (up to 2 years);
- 494 – Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa – up to 5 years; and
- 186 – Employer Nominated Scheme (ENS) – permanent.
- be headquartered and undertaking commercial and/or residential building and construction work in Western Australia, in one of the occupations listed at Appendix 1.
Labour hire companies and Group Training Organisations acting as direct employers, are ineligible for the program.
Information about how to sponsor a skilled migrant can be found on the Department of Home Affairs website.
- State Nominated Migration Program Stream
- Available for skilled migrants granted visas through the WA State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP):
- 190 Skilled Nominated (permanent); and
- 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional).
- Applicants must commence work:
- with an employer headquartered and undertaking residential and commercial construction work in WA; and
- in one of the eligible occupations listed at Appendix 1.
Onshore skilled migrants who are eligible for the Skilled Migrant Job Connect Subsidy Program, may also be eligible for the CVSP.
Information about applying for the SNMP can be found on DTWD’s Migration Services website.
- Program level targets
The following program level targets will be considered in the allocation of program places:
- trade v para-professional/professional occupations;
- mix of occupations;
- reasonable spread of employers (employer sponsored); and
- reasonable mix of metropolitan and regional places.
- Eligible costs
Applicants will be eligible to utilise the subsidy to offset costs incurred in the migration process.
These may include but are not limited to:
- recruitment costs;
- fees paid to a registered Migration Agent1;
- visa application fees2; and
- relocation costs.
- General eligibility criteria
- Applications will be reviewed in accordance with approved program eligibility criteria, and specific evidentiary requirements at each milestone payment point.
- In addition, validation checks will be conducted to ascertain the following:
- employer has a valid Australian Business Number (ABN) and this has been verified on ABN Lookup;
- employer/skilled migrant is registered to use DTWD’s WAAMS system, and their bank details have been provided; and
- employer/skilled migrant has confirmed that they agree to the Construction Visa Subsidy Program – Terms and Conditions.
- Program exclusions
The CVSP is not available to:
- labour hire companies and Group Training Organisations (GTOs) as direct employers;
- State and Commonwealth government agencies.
- Comply with Laws
Employers and skilled migrants in receipt of payments under the CVSP, must comply with this Agreement, and all Laws in relation to the CVSP.
- Information
If DTWD requests that an employer or skilled migrant provide DTWD with information or access to information, which is in any way relevant to the CVSP, this Agreement or any application for funding submitted by the employer or skilled migrant, the employer or skilled migrant must promptly comply, ensuring that the information so provided, or to which access is provided, is true, accurate, complete, current, sufficiently detailed and in no way misleading or deceptive.
In this clause, ‘information’ includes data, records and other documentation.
- Migration Agents who operate in Australia must be registered with the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA), the Australian government authority that registers migration agents and regulates the Migration Agents profession.
- https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/fees-and-charges/current-visa-pricing/work
3. PAYMENTS
- Employer sponsored stream
- Eligible employers will receive payments of up to $10,000 per skilled migrant, at three milestone payment points:
- Milestone 1 – $2,000;
- Milestone 2 – $4,000;
- Milestone 3 – $4,000.
- Table 1 provides an outline of the documentation required by employers to support their claim for payment at each milestone point:
| Milestone | Claim Form and Supporting Documentation Requirements |
| Milestone 1 Paid when employer registers for the CVSP I am making my first Milestone 1 claim | complete the Employer Sponsored Stream – Milestone 1 – Claim Form; agree to comply with the Construction Visa Subsidy Program – Terms and Conditions; declare your intent to become a sponsor with the Department of Home Affairs (DHA), and sponsor a skilled migrant; andsubmit your completed claim form. |
| Milestone 1 Paid when employer registers for the CVSP I have already submitted my first Milestone 1 claimORI am making between two and five Milestone 1 claims | complete the Employer Sponsored Stream – Milestone 1 – Claim Form; agree to comply with the Construction Visa Subsidy Program – Terms and Conditions; declare your intent to become a sponsor with the Department of Home Affairs (DHA), and sponsor skilled migrants; andprovide a brief outline of planned and upcoming work including the occupations your sponsored skilled migrant(s) will be working in; andsubmit your completed claim form. |
| Milestone 1 Paid when employer registers for the CVSP I have already submitted my first five Milestone 1 claims ORI am making six or more Milestone 1 claims | complete the Employer Sponsored Stream – Milestone 1 – Claim Form; agree to comply with the Construction Visa Subsidy Program – Terms and Conditions; provide your confirmation of registration as a sponsor with the Department of Home Affairs (DHA); provide a business plan demonstrating the need for additional skilled workers, and include the occupations your sponsored skilled migrants will be working in; describe your plans for onboarding and supporting your skilled migrants; andsubmit your completed claim form. |
| Milestone 2 Paid when the skilled migrant’s visa has been granted | complete the Employer Sponsored Stream – Milestone 2 – Claim Form; provide a copy of the sponsored migrant’s visa grant letter; provide a copy of your Individual Labour Agreement (if you are sponsoring a skilled migrant under a Designated Area Migration Agreement3); andsubmit your completed claim form. |
| Milestone 3 Paid when the skilled migrant commences work with the employer | complete the Employer Sponsored Stream – Milestone 3 – Claim Formprovide a copy of the letter of engagement/employment contract you have signed with your sponsored migrant; provide a copy of the sponsored migrant’s first payslip; andsubmit your completed claim form. |
Table 1: Construction Visa Subsidy Program – Employer Sponsored Stream – Milestone Payments
- A designated area migration agreement (DAMA) is a formal agreement between the Australian Government and a regional, state or territory authority. It provides access to more overseas workers than the standard skilled migration program. There are currently three DAMAs in operation in WA – Pilbara, South West and Goldfields.
- State Nominated Migration Program stream
- To be eligible to access the CVSP as an independent skilled migrant, applicants must have been granted a visa through WA’s State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP).
- Detailed information about the SNMP can be found here – www.migration.wa.gov.au/our- services-support/state-nominated-migration-program
- Once a visa is granted through the SNMP stream, eligible independent skilled migrants will receive payments of up to $10,000.
- Payments will be disbursed at two milestone points:
- Milestone 1 – $5,000 (offshore applicants) or $2,500 (onshore applicants); and
- Milestone 2 – $5,000 (offshore applicants) or $2,500 (onshore applicants).
- Skilled migrants will be required to support their claim for payment at each milestone point, with documentation listed at Table 2 (Offshore Applicants), or Table 3 (Onshore Applicants).
| State Nominated Migration Program Stream – Offshore Applicants4 | ||
| Milestone | Claim Form and Supporting Documentation Requirements | Payments |
| Milestone 1 Paid when skilled migrant commences work with WA employer | State Nominated Migration Program Stream – Milestone 1 – Claim FormLetter of engagement/employment contract signed by employer and nominated migrantNominated migrant’s first payslip from employer (at the milestone payment point) | $5,000 |
| Milestone 2 Paid when the skilled migrant has completed six months of work in the WA construction sector | State Nominated Migration Program Stream – Milestone 2– Claim FormNominated migrant’s first payslip from employer (that is, employer skilled migrant was employed by at Milestone 1) and most recent payslip from current employer | $5,000 |
| Total Payments | $10,000 | |
Table 2: Construction Visa Subsidy Program – SNMP Stream (Offshore Applicants) – Milestone Payments
| State Nominated Migration Program Stream – Onshore Applicants5 | ||
| Milestone | Claim Form and Supporting Documentation Requirements | Payments |
| Milestone 1 Paid when skilled migrant commences work with WA employer | State Nominated Migration Program Stream – Milestone 1 – Claim FormLetter of engagement/employment contract signed by employer and nominated migrantNominated migrant’s first payslip from employer (at the milestone payment point) | $2,500 |
| Milestone 2 Paid when the skilled migrant has completed six months of work in the WA construction sector | State Nominated Migration Program Stream – Milestone 2– Claim FormNominated migrant’s first payslip from employer (that is, employer skilled migrant was employed by at Milestone 1) and most recent payslip from current employer | $2,500 |
| Total Payments | $5,000 | |
Table 3: Construction Visa Subsidy Program – SNMP Stream (Onshore Applicants) – Milestone Payments
- To be eligible for payments as an offshore applicant, skilled migrants must have had lodged their visa while residing outside of Australia, on or after 1 July.
- To be eligible for payments as an onshore applicant, skilled migrants must have had lodged their visa while residing in Australia, on or after 1 July.
- Payment Methods
Employers
Payments will be made to an employer’s nominated bank account, after validation checks of information and supporting documentation provided by the employer, are conducted.
To facilitate payment, eligible employers must have the following access levels in DTWD’s WAAMS system:
- WAAMS online client portal login (https://waamsportal.dtwd.wa.gov.au) – this gives users access to view their organisation details record and make approved changes as required; and
- Financial Administrator – the employer must nominate a Financial Administrator who will have access to create and edit the organisation’s bank details as required.
Skilled migrants (SNMP stream)
Payments will be made to the bank account nominated on the milestone claim form, after validation checks of information and supporting documentation provided by the skilled migrant, are conducted.
4. CLAIM PROCESS
- Employer Sponsored Stream
Step 1
If you are making your first milestone 1 claim:
- complete the CVSP Employer Sponsored Stream – Milestone 1 – Claim Form;
- agree to comply with the Construction Visa Subsidy Program – Terms and Conditions;
- declare your intent to become a sponsor with the Department of Home Affairs (DHA), and sponsor a skilled migrant; and
- submit your completed claim form.
If you are making your second milestone 1 claim OR two to five milestone 1 claims at the same time:
- complete the CVSP Employer Sponsored Stream – Milestone 1 – Claim Form;
- agree to comply with the Construction Visa Subsidy Program – Terms and Conditions;
- declare your intent to become a sponsor with the Department of Home Affairs (DHA), and sponsor a skilled migrant; and
- provide a brief outline of planned and upcoming work including the occupations your sponsored skilled migrant will be working in; and
- submit your completed claim form.
If you have already made five milestone 1 claims OR you are submitting six or more milestone 1 claims at the same time:
- complete the CVSP Employer Sponsored Stream – Milestone 1 – Claim Form;
- agree to comply with the Construction Visa Subsidy Program – Terms and Conditions;
- provide your confirmation of registration as a sponsor with the Department of Home Affairs (DHA);
- provide a business plan demonstrating the need for additional skilled workers, and include the occupations your sponsored skilled migrants will be working in;
- describe your plans for onboarding and supporting your skilled migrants; and
- submit your completed claim form.
Step 2
If you have not already found a skilled migrant you would like to sponsor, you can enter your details on DTWD’s Skilled Migrant Employment Register (SMER).
The SMER can help connect you with skilled migrants who have indicated that they are seeking employment opportunities in WA, including preferred occupation, current location and employment intentions.
You may also choose to engage a registered Migration Agent who can help you to link with a skilled migrant, and assist you through the visa process.
Step 3
Apply to become a sponsor with the Commonwealth Department of Home Affairs, and nominate an occupation and the skilled migrant you want to sponsor.
Step 4
Work with your skilled migrant and/or Migration Agent, to select the visa that your skilled migrant is eligible for.
Your nominated skilled migrant should then lodge the visa application through the Department of Home Affairs ImmiAcount gateway service.
Step 5
Step 6
When your skilled migrant has commenced employment with you and received their first payslip, complete the Employer Sponsored Stream – Milestone 3 – Claim Form to receive your final payment.
- State Nominated Migration Program Stream
Step 1
Lodge an Expression of Interest in SkillSelect to indicate your interest in WA State Nomination.
Detailed information including a step by step process to apply for the State Nominated Migration Program, can be found here.
Step 2
If you have not already linked with an eligible WA employer, you can enter your details on the Skilled Migrant Employment Register (SMER).
The SMER allows you to indicate your interest in working in WA and provides the opportunity for an employer to connect with you.
You may also choose to engage a registered Migration Agent to assist you through the visa process.
Step 3
Once you have been approved for State Nomination and your visa has been granted by the Commonwealth’s Department of Home Affairs, register your arrival and visa approval with Migration Services here.
Step 4
When you have commenced your employment with an eligible employer, and received your first payslip, complete the State Nominated Migration Program Stream – Milestone 1 – Claim Form to receive your first payment.
Step 5
When you have completed six months of work in WA’s construction industry, complete the State Nominated Migration Program Stream – Milestone 2 – Claim Form to receive your pfinaayml ent.
5. TAXATION
5.1 Goods and Services Tax
GST does not apply to subsidies paid by DTWD to employers and individual skilled migrants under the Construction Visa Subsidy Program, and all subsidy amounts paid are GST exclusive. Eligible applicants are solely responsible for obtaining their own independent legal and financial advice about tax and any other legal impact that receipt of the subsidy may have in their individual circumstances.
For this purpose:
- “GST” means the goods and services tax applicable to any taxable supplies as determined by the GST Act; and
- “GST Act” means A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax) Act 1999 (Cth) and includes all associated legislation and regulations; and
- the terms “supply”, “tax invoice”, “taxable supply” and “value” have the same meanings as in the GST Act.
5.2. Taxable Payment Annual Reporting (TPAR)
The subsidy payments are subject to the taxable payments reporting requirements of the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) following receipt of the payment.
From 1 July 2017, federal, state and territory government entities are required to report grants they make to people or organisations with an ABN each financial year from 1 July to 30 June.
Details of grants paid to each recipient are provided on a Taxable Payment Annual Report (TPAR) submitted electronically to the ATO on 28 August each year. DTWD reports details of payments such as the name of the organisation receiving the payment, total amount paid and date of payment in the TPAR.
Reportable grant payments include subsidies under the Construction Visa Subsidy Program paid to entities with an Australian Business Number (ABN) each financial year. Unpaid grants as at 30 June each year are reported in the following financial year’s TPAR.
There is no requirement by the ATO for DTWD to provide recipients with any details of the information reported to the ATO on the TPAR.
If you receive a payment under the Construction Visa Subsidy program, and are an entity with an ABN under this program, the payment will be reported to the ATO.
The ATO may contact grant recipients about subsidy payments reported on the TPAR. Further information about the TPAR is available on the ATO website.
6. DEBT MANAGEMENT
Repayment of subsidy payments will be required where the employer and/or skilled migrant:
- seems to be manipulating the CVSP as evidenced by their retrenchment or recruitment patterns; or
- has no lawful basis for or entitlement to the payment, or where the employer or skilled migrant has provided to DTWD incorrect, incomplete, misleading or deceptive information under or in connection with the CVSP; or
- has breached these Terms and Conditions or this Agreement; or
- is not meeting their workplace obligations; or
- is behaving, or has behaved, unlawfully, dishonestly, or unethically.
7. COLLECTION OF PERSONAL INFORMATION
- Use of Personal Information
DTWD may collect, make a record, or otherwise use personal information for the purposes of administering the CVSP. Personal information may be disclosed to third parties for the purposes of administering and carrying out functions relating to the CVSP.
- Disclosure of Personal Information
Personal information may be disclosed to and sought from, third parties for the purposes of administering and carrying out functions relating to the CVSP. Third parties include, but are not limited to:
- Commonwealth Government departments and agencies; and
- Western Australian Government departments and agencies.
- Management of Personal Information
Personal information collected under the management and administration of the CVSP, will be managed in accordance with the State Records Act 2000 and the Freedom of Information Act 1992 (the FOI Act).
This legislation provides individuals with protections to prevent the misuse of personal information. In addition, if an individual has a complaint about the storing or use of their personal information, they are able to contact the WA Information Commissioner.
Under the FOI Act, an Information Commissioner has been appointed to:
- deal with complaints about decisions made by government agencies; and
- investigate possible interference with personal information, either following a complaint by the individual or of the Commissioner’s own initiative.
Further information about the role of the Information Commissioner can be found at www.oic.wa.gov.au.
8. REVIEW OF DECISIONS
- Overview
DTWD is committed to procedural fairness in the administration of the CVSP. It is intended that all decisions are consistent, equitable and transparent within the limits and constraints of the approved polices for the CVSP.
In the interests of procedural fairness, an employer or skilled migrant has a right to request a review of a decision in relation to eligibility for a payment.
- Process for Review of Decisions
The process for the review of decisions is as follows:
- A written request for a review should be made directly to DTWD by emailing cvsp@dtwd.wa.gov.au. The request should outline the reasons the employer or skilled migrant considers the decision to be incorrect or unfair and, where appropriate, provide additional evidence to support a review of the case.
- The review will be conducted by a senior DTWD staff member, at Director level or above.
- Upon review, DTWD will re-examine the decision taking into account the policies and intent of the CVSP, the reasons that the claimant has put forward for review of the decision and any additional information provided.
- DTWD will only review on a fully open and transparent basis. Accordingly, all relevant information must promptly be forthcoming from the employer or skilled migrant.
- Notification of Outcome
DTWD will aim to notify the employer or skilled migrant of the review decision, in writing, within 28 days of the review being requested.
The review decision will be provided in writing and include a clear explanation of the reason(s) for the review decision.
DTWD will consider declarations and supporting documentation in an endeavour to review a decision to ensure that the best possible outcome is achieved, balancing the rights of the employer or skilled migrant with the prudent use of public monies.
When considering a request for a review of the decision the following may be considered (amongst other relevant factors):
- Would the employer or skilled migrant be eligible for the payment if it were not for the exceptional circumstance(s)? This determines the basic eligibility for the payment(s) in dispute.
- Is the exceptional circumstance(s) out of the control of the employer or skilled migrant? If yes, then exceptional circumstances may apply.
- Has the payment been disrupted by unexpected or unplanned events that have impacted on the ability to provide supporting evidence or take necessary actions within the required time limits? If yes, then exceptional circumstances may apply.
Exceptional circumstances are circumstances that are unusual, uncommon, unexpected or unplanned.
9. DISCLAIMER INDEMNITY AND WARRANTY
A continuing obligation throughout any period of participation in the CVSP is that each employer or skilled migrant hereby declares and warrants to DTWD and the State, and all their respective officers, employees and agents, that they have read, understood and accept these Terms and Conditions and that they have been truthful, and wholly forthcoming with all relevant information, in respect to their application to participate in the CVSP.
Eligible employers and where applicable, skilled migrants, are solely responsible for obtaining their own independent legal and financial advice about tax and any other legal impact that receipt of the CVSP may have in their individual circumstances.
10. CHANGES TO THE CONSTRUCTION VISA SUBSIDY PROGRAM
DTWD reserves the right to:
- vary these Terms and Conditions, the eligibility criteria or any other documented rule or procedure at any time; and
- accept or reject any application for participation in the CVSP in its absolute discretion; and
- cease the CVSP at any time should State Government policy change or the budget allocation for the CVSP be re-prioritised.
11. AUDITS
The CVSP as administered by DTWD, is subject to audit by the Western Australian Auditor General. Employers or skilled migrants may be asked to provide information during the audit process; if asked, they must promptly comply.
12. STAKEHOLDER FEEDBACK
In administering the CVSP, measures have been taken to minimise red tape and simplify the payment process for employers. This is balanced with the need to ensure CVSP payments are made correctly to eligible employers and skilled migrants.
DTWD is always looking to improve processes and systems. Stakeholder feedback is welcomed and can be provided to DTWD by:
Telephone: 13 19 54
Email: cvsp@dtwd.wa.gov.au.
Appendix 1 – Building and Construction Occupations – Visa Availability
| ANZSCOCode | ANZSCO Name | EMPLOYER SPONSORED | SNMP | ||||
| DAMAFlag6 | Visa 482 | Visa 494 | Visa 186 | Visa 190 | Visa 491 | ||
| 133111 | Construction project manager | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 133112 | Project builder | Yes | Yes | Yes | |||
| 232111 | Architect | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 232112 | Landscape architect | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 232212 | Surveyor | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 232611 | Urban and regional planner | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 233211 | Civil engineer | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 233213 | Quantity surveyor | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 233214 | Structural engineer | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 312111 | Architectural draftsperson | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | ||
| 312112 | Building associate | Yes | Yes | ||||
| 312113 | Building inspector (including building certifiers/building surveyors) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | ||
| 312114 | Construction estimator | Yes | Yes | Yes | |||
| 312115 | Plumbing inspector | Yes | |||||
| 312116 | Surveying or spatial science technician | Yes | Yes | Yes | |||
| 312199 | Architectural, building and surveying technicians not elsewhere classified | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | ||
| 312211 | Civil engineering draftsperson | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 312212 | Civil engineering technician | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 312311 | Electrical Engineering Draftsperson | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 312312 | Electrical Engineering Technician | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 312911 | Maintenance planner | Yes | Yes | Yes | |||
| 312999 | Building and engineering technician | Yes | Yes | Yes | |||
| 331111 | Bricklayer | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 331112 | Stonemason | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 331211 | Carpenter and joiner | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 331212 | Carpenter | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 331213 | Joiner | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 332111 | Floor finisher | Yes | Yes | Yes | |||
| 332211 | Painting trades worker | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 333111 | Glazier | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 333211 | Fibrous plasterer | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 333212 | Solid plasterer | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 333311 | Roof tiler | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | ||
| 333411 | Wall and floor tiler | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 334111 | Plumber (general) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 334115 | Roof plumber | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 334112 | Air conditioning and mechanical services plumber | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | ||
| 334113 | Drainer | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 334114 | Gasfitter | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 341111 | Electrician (general) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
6 A Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) is a formal agreement between the Australian government and a regional, State or Territory authority that provides access to more overseas workers than a standard skilled migration program.
| ANZSCOCode | ANZSCO Name | EMPLOYER SPONSORED | SNMP | ||||
| DAMAFlag6 | Visa 482 | Visa 494 | Visa 186 | Visa 190 | Visa 491 | ||
| 341112 | Electrician (special class) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 341113 | Lift mechanic | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 342111 | Air conditioning and refrigeration mechanic | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 342411 | Cabler (data and telecommunications) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | ||
| 362213362711 | Landscape gardener | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | ||
| 394111 | Cabinetmaker | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 399912 | Interior decorator | Yes | |||||
| 399918 | Fire protection equipment technician | Yes | |||||
| 511111 | Contract administrator | Yes | Yes | ||||
| 712111 | Crane, hoist or lift operator | Yes | |||||
| 721211 | Earthmoving plant operator (general) | Yes | |||||
| 721212 | Backhoe operator | Yes | |||||
| 721214 | Excavator operator | Yes | |||||
| 721216 | Loader operator | Yes | |||||
| 721915 | Road roller operator | Yes | |||||
| 821211 | Concreter | Yes | |||||
| 821712 | Scaffolder | Yes | |||||
| 821713 | Steel fixer | Yes | |||||
| 821912 | Driller’s assistant | Yes | |||||
Understanding the Construction Visa Subsidy Program
What is the Construction Visa Subsidy Program?
The Construction Visa Subsidy Program is a government initiative aimed at promoting the growth of the construction industry in Australia by providing financial incentives to eligible visa holders. It is designed to attract skilled workers and facilitate the development of infrastructure across the country.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Construction Visa Subsidy Program, individuals must meet the following requirements:
1. Visa Type
Applicants must hold a relevant visa type, such as a Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa or a Skilled Independent visa.
2. Employment in the Construction Industry
You must be employed in the Australian construction industry, either as a tradesperson, engineer or in a related occupation.
3. Skills Assessment
A positive skills assessment from a recognized authority in your field is essential.
4. Compliance with Visa Conditions
Applicants must comply with all visa conditions, including work-related obligations and health checks.
Construction Visa Subsidy Program in Western Australia | Earn $10,000 for Employment in Australia
Exciting News: The Western Australian Government has introduced an innovative program to help the construction industry and solve its shortage of workers. In the 2023-24 Budget, they have allocated $47.6 million to support the building and construction workforce. This includes various new programs to improve local training and attract skilled workers from abroad. One of the key parts of this plan is the Construction Visa Subsidy Program (CVSP), which aims to bring much-needed talent to the sector and benefit both employers and international workers.
The government’s announcement explains the main goal of this program: to strengthen the construction industry in Western Australia by addressing the shortage of workers. With many construction projects happening and cities changing rapidly, there is a high demand for skilled workers. The CVSP is a critical part of this plan and could transform the industry by providing financial incentives to both employers and international workers.
Strengthening Employers and Workforce
Under the CVSP, companies in the construction industry can receive up to $10,000 for each eligible international worker they hire. This is a strong incentive for businesses to take part in the program, helping them with recruitment and training costs while securing the skilled workforce needed to complete projects on time and support industry growth.
At the same time, international workers looking for opportunities in Western Australia’s construction industry can benefit from the CVSP. As the shortage of skilled labor continues, this program offers a great chance for foreign workers to join a thriving industry while receiving financial incentives. It recognizes their important contribution and is an attractive opportunity for those seeking to advance their careers in a dynamic environment.
You Can Discover Your Gateway to CVSP Benefits
For both international workers searching for jobs and local employers looking to strengthen their teams, Seek is a crucial platform. Seek, a leading online job portal, has partnered with the Western Australian Government to connect employers with potential employees interested in the CVSP.
Seek offers an easy-to-use platform that simplifies the job search process, making it simple for international workers to find suitable positions and for employers to identify the right candidates. The platform’s integration with the CVSP ensures that eligible employees and employers can easily access the financial incentives offered by the program.
WA employers (CVSP Employer Sponsored Stream) and independent skilled migrants (CVSP State Nominated Stream) may be eligible for the CVSP.
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Eligible employers can receive payments of up to $10,000 per skilled migrant at three milestone points:
- Milestone 1 – $2,000
- Milestone 2 – $4,000
- Milestone 3 – $4,000
Eligible skilled migrants who apply for their visa offshore will receive payments of up to $10,000 at two milestone points:
- Milestone 1 – $5,000
- Milestone 2 – $5,000
Eligible skilled migrants who are already onshore when the CVSP commences will receive payments that have been reduced to reflect the lower costs incurred by onshore applicants:
- Milestone 1 – $2,500
- Milestone 2 – $2,500
For information about eligibility for the CVSP, please see the CVSP Terms and Conditions
A Big Change for the Industry
The Construction Visa Subsidy Program represents a significant shift for Western Australia’s construction industry. By supporting employers in their search for skilled workers and offering attractive incentives to international employees, the program has the potential to revitalize the sector. The collaboration between the government and platforms like Seek demonstrates an innovative approach to solving complex challenges.
As Western Australia’s construction industry prepares for growth and transformation, the CVSP reflects the government’s dedication to fostering a strong workforce. This program not only addresses labor shortages but also sets an example of proactive government involvement and industry cooperation in tackling important economic issues. With the promise of benefits for both employers and workers, the future of Western Australia’s construction industry looks brighter than ever.
Also Check: 195,000 Jobs for Visa Sponsorship in Australia, Unskilled, 2024 (Apply)
Benefits of the Construction Visa Subsidy Program
Financial Incentives
One of the primary advantages of this program is the financial incentives it offers. Visa holders can receive subsidies to cover various expenses, including housing, education, and healthcare.
Permanent Residency Pathway
The Construction Visa Subsidy Program can also serve as a pathway to permanent residency in Australia. It offers a bridge for skilled workers to establish themselves in the country permanently.
Industry Growth
By attracting skilled workers to the construction sector, the program contributes to the growth and development of Australia’s infrastructure, benefiting both the industry and the nation.
Application Process
Step 1: Visa Application
Start by applying for an eligible visa type, ensuring you meet all the necessary criteria.
Step 2: Employment
Secure employment in the construction industry and obtain a positive skills assessment.
Step 3: Subsidy Application
Once employed, you can apply for subsidies through the Construction Visa Subsidy Program portal.
Contact our Construction Migration Office
WA State nomination, and certification for regional visas
Email: migration@dtwd.wa.gov.au
Phone: +61 8 9224 6540
Conclusion
The Construction Visa Subsidy Program in Australia offers a golden opportunity for skilled workers looking to establish themselves in the country’s thriving construction industry. With its financial incentives and a potential pathway to permanent residency, it is a program worth exploring.
FAQs – Construction Visa Subsidy Program Australia
1. Can I apply for the Construction Visa Subsidy Program if I already hold an Australian visa?
Yes, you can apply for the program if you meet the eligibility criteria, even if you already hold a valid visa.
2. What types of expenses can the subsidies cover?
Subsidies can cover a range of expenses, including housing, education for your children, and healthcare costs.
3. How long does it take to obtain permanent residency through this program?
The timeline for obtaining permanent residency varies, but it typically depends on your specific circumstances and visa type.
4. Are there any restrictions on the construction occupations eligible for this program?
While the program is open to various construction-related occupations, certain specific roles may have additional requirements.
5. Is there an age limit for applicants?
There is no strict age limit for applicants, but age may be a factor considered during the application process.