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MLTSSL Migration Pathway

Metal Machinist (First Class)

ANZSCO Code: 323214 | Precision Engineering & CNC Specialist

⚙️
Strong Future Demand
🔒
Strong Job Security
🇦🇺
MLTSSL Visa Status
💰
$65k – $95k 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 availability, and invitation rounds.

Occupation Overview

  • QualificationsCertificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade (MEM30219).
  • SpecializationCNC programming modules and 4-year apprenticeship.
  • Course Duration4 Year Apprenticeship (Vocational + Workplace).
  • Course CostAUD $10,000 – $20,000 / Year
  • Assessing BodyTrades Recognition Australia (TRA).
  • Entry Req.Year 12 completion with Mathematics preferred; IELTS Overall 6.0.
  • IntakesFebruary, July, November.
Advanced CNC Machining Operations

Job Description & Strategic Insight

Metal Machinists (First Class) are essential precisionists in the aerospace, defence, and advanced manufacturing sectors. By programming and operating CNC machinery to shape metal components to exact dimensions, they fill a critical skilled shortage in Australia's highest priority technical industries.

Precision Toolroom and Machining Services
  • Business Opportunities • CNC Machining Sub-Contracting
    • Specialist Precision Engineering Firm
    • Industrial Toolroom & Finishing Services
    • Aerospace & Defence Priority Fabricator

Your Australian PR occupation guide

Select any occupation to see the full skills assessment pathway, study options, English requirements, state nomination status, and visa comparison — all in one place.

90 Occupations
8 Assessing Bodies
6 Visa Pathways
8 States & Territories
Search related occupations, ANZSCO code, or assessing body... ⌕

Simple 4 Step Process

1

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
2

Apply for 485 visa

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

3

Undertake a Full Skill Assessment

Most trade occupations undertake the Job Ready Program through TRA which involves 12-months of paid work experience and a formal skills assessment process.

4

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

MLTSSL Status grants full access to all skilled visa streams.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the entry requirements for Metal Machinist courses in Australia?

Most institutions require Year 12 completion or equivalent, basic mathematics knowledge, and an IELTS overall score of 6.0 for international students.

When are the intake periods available?

Common intakes for engineering and machining programs are February, July, and November depending on the provider.

How long does it take to become a qualified Metal Machinist (First Class)?

The standard pathway is a 4-year apprenticeship combining vocational study with paid workplace training.

Does studying in regional Australia provide extra migration points?

Yes. Eligible regional study or work can provide an additional +5 migration points toward your skilled visa application.

Is the Metal Machinist (First Class) occupation in demand in Australia?

Yes. CNC machining and precision engineering remain in strong demand across manufacturing, mining, defence, and aerospace industries.

Do I need licensing or registration to work as a Metal Machinist?

Most roles do not require occupational licensing, however employers highly value TRA-recognised qualifications, apprenticeships, and workplace safety certifications.

What is the average salary for a Metal Machinist in Australia?

Qualified Metal Machinists (First Class) typically earn between AUD $65,000 and AUD $95,000 annually depending on industry, overtime, and location.

What visa pathways are available for Metal Machinists?

Eligible applicants may apply for the Subclass 189, Subclass 190, and Subclass 491 skilled migration visas depending on points score and nomination eligibility.

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