MLTSSL Migration Pathway

Fitter and Turner

ANZSCO Code: 323212 | Precision Manufacturing Expert

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Strong Future Demand

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Very High Job Security

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MLTSSL Visa Status

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$70k – $100k Avg Salary (AUD)

PR Pathway Overview

Study

→

Graduate

→

485 Visa

→

Work

→

Skills Assess

→

EOI

→

Invitation

→

Visa Grant

Most applicants aim for 80+ points. Regional Advantage: Studying or working in regional Australia provides a significant advantage and grants an additional +5 points to your total. The estimated total timeline from course commencement to permanent residency grant is typically 4 to 6 years depending on work experience, state nomination opportunities, and migration policy updates.

Occupation Overview

QualificationsCertificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade (MEM30219).
TrainingStandard 4-year Australian apprenticeship required.
Course Duration4 Year Apprenticeship (Vocational + On-the-job).
Course CostAUD $15,000 – $20,000 / Year
Assessing BodyTrades Recognition Australia (TRA).
Entry Req.Year 12 completion or equivalent; IELTS overall 6.0 with no band less than 5.5.
IntakesFebruary, July and November.

Job Description & Strategic Insight

Fitter and Turners are master precisionists who produce complex metal parts on lathes and milling machines while also performing assembly and maintenance on industrial equipment. With a critical shortage across the mining and defence sectors, CNC machining proficiency is a highly valued asset.

Business Opportunities • Precision Engineering & Machining Workshop
• Contract CNC Machining Services
• Custom Component Manufacturing for OEMs
• Industrial Plant Tooling & Repair

Simple 4 Step Process

Enrol to a Course

Firstly, you must enrol in the right course/courses – one that trains you for a position on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).

FIND A COURSE

Apply for 485 visa

After graduation, you may be eligible to apply for a temporary work visa called 485 Graduate Visa .

Undertake a Full Skill Assessment

Most trade occupations undertake the Job Ready Program which involves 12-months of paid work experience, workplace evidence, and skills verification through Trades Recognition Australia (TRA).

Apply for 189, 190, 491 visas

Finally, you may be eligible to apply for General Skilled Migration Visas: The Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) , State Nominated (Subclass 190) or Regional Nominated (Subclass 491) Visas.

Visa & PR Pathways

Skilled Independent

Subclass 189

Direct Permanent Residency
Points-based (No sponsor needed)
Full access via MLTSSL status

Skilled Nominated

Subclass 190

Permanent Residency
State/Territory nomination
+5 Points bonus for nomination

Regional Skilled

Subclass 491

5-year provisional visa
+15 Points for Regional
Pathway to 191 Permanent Residency

Employer Sponsored

Subclass 482

Temporary Skill Shortage
Medium-term stream sponsorship
Pathway to PR available

Regional Employer

Subclass 494

Regional Employer Sponsored
Priority Processing
Direct PR pathway available

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the entry requirements for a Fitter and Turner course in Australia?

Most institutes require Year 12 completion or equivalent qualification along with IELTS 6.0 overall with no band lower than 5.5.

What are the available intakes for Fitter and Turner courses?

Common intakes are February, July and November depending on the training provider and campus availability.

How long does it take to complete a Fitter and Turner qualification?

Most programs involve a 4-year apprenticeship combining vocational study with practical workplace training.

Does studying regionally in Australia add migration points?

Yes. Studying or working in regional Australia can provide an additional +5 migration points for skilled migration pathways.

Is the Fitter and Turner occupation in demand in Australia?

Yes. Fitter and Turners remain in strong demand across mining, manufacturing, defence, infrastructure and heavy engineering industries.

Do Fitter and Turners require licensing or registration?

Formal trade qualifications and apprenticeship completion are generally required, while certain industries may require additional workplace safety certifications.