The construction industry in Australia is experiencing a critical workforce shortage. As per reports, 85% of employers in Australia struggle to find skilled candidates to meet the huge demand. This leads to a large potential for employment for building and construction courses in Australia.
Be it an entry-level certificate, an advanced diploma, or even a graduate or postgraduate degree in construction. Pursuing building and construction courses in Australia can lead to strong employment prospects across the country. The Skills Priority List (SPL), compiled by Jobs and Skills Australia, highlights construction-related jobs as being in high demand, indicating a significant need for skilled workers in the sector.
In this blog, explore everything you need to know about building courses in Australia—from course details and costs to eligibility requirements and job opportunities in the booming construction sectorWhy Study Building and Construction Courses in Australia?
Building and Construction courses in Australia are an amazing blend of skill training and industry exposure. These courses are designed with a strong focus on practical learning, industry partnerships, and skill development—helping students secure jobs right after graduation.
Additionally, the National Construction Code (NCC) provides safety, health, amenity, accessibility, and sustainability at the workplace. Moreover, building and construction workers in Australia are protected by comprehensive workplace rights ensuring safety, fair pay, and good conditions.
Here are 5 reasons why you should study building and construction courses in Australia:
- High-demand Occupation: The Skills Priority List (SPL) indicates a critical shortage of building and construction professionals in Australia. If you hold a relevant certificate, diploma, or degree from an Australian institution, your chances of securing a job after graduation are generally high.
- As per SEEK Australia, entry-level construction professionals in Australia earn between AU $65,000 to AU $75,000 per year, while experienced professionals can earn AU $150,000 to $200,000 per year. Thus reiterating the growing demand for construction workers in Australia.
- Short course with government accreditation: Construction courses in Australia are only 6 months to 2 years long, recognised by the Australian government. This means you can join the workforce as soon as you have completed your graduation.
- Recognised Certifications – Courses like Certificate III in Carpentry, Diploma in Building and Construction, and Advanced Diploma in Civil Construction align with international construction practices, helping graduates work in diverse global markets, especially in the UK, Canada, and New Zealand.
Top universities to study Building and Construction courses in Australia
Australia has over 30 top-ranked universities recognised globally offering undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. The University of Melbourne, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, and the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) are some of the best construction universities in Australia known for providing technology, project management, cost estimation, and sustainable building practices.
|
University |
Course Name |
Annual Tuition Fees (AUD) |
|
University of Melbourne |
Master of Construction Management |
AU $45,984 |
|
UNSW Sydney |
Bachelor of Construction Management & Property |
AU $10,100 |
|
UNSW Sydney |
Master of Construction Project Management |
AU $37,000 (1st year) |
|
RMIT University |
Bachelor of Applied Science (Construction Management) |
AU $4,627 to $16,992 |
|
RMIT University |
Master of Project Management |
AU $34,560 |
The annual tuition fees listed for Bachelor's degrees are estimates of the student contribution amounts for domestic students in Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs). Under a CSP, the Australian Government pays a portion of your fees. The actual amount you pay can vary depending on the university and the specific units of study. Eligible domestic students can defer payment of their student contribution amounts through the HECS-HELP loan scheme, repaying the loan once their income reaches a certain threshold. For postgraduate degrees, fees are typically higher, though some CSPs may be available. Always check the latest fee information directly with the university or get in touch with our AECC Study Abroad Counsellors.
Cost of Studying Building and Construction Courses in Australia
The student contribution amounts for undergraduate Bachelor's degrees in construction typically range from approximately AU $4,500 to AU $17,000 per year, depending on the university and specific course banding. Vocational courses like Diplomas can have different fee structures, often ranging from AU $5,000 to AU $20,000 for the entire qualification. Full-fee postgraduate degrees can range from AU $25,000 up to AU $60,000 or more annually. Remember, HECS-HELP is available for eligible students in CSPs for university degrees, and VET Student Loans may be available for approved diploma courses.
Living expenses while studying construction courses can be varied depending on your accommodation and city; however, the average cost of living in Australia as a student weekly can be anywhere between AU $350 to $750. You can calculate your cost of living in Australia depending on your preferences through the 'Cost of Living in Australia' official page.
Eligibility Criteria
Construction courses in Australia follow strict qualifying standards established by the university or institution. Firstly, all applicants must be 18 years of age (or above). However, here are some basic requirements for enrolling in construction courses in Australia.
Academic Qualification:- Must have completed Year 12 (High School) or equivalent with a Maths or Science background.
- For a master degree admission all applicants must have completed a 3-4 year undergraduate study in comparable areas.
Admission Requirements
The admission processes for building and construction courses in Australia are made online on college or university websites. After meeting the admission requirements laid down by the university, you must fill out the application with the following documents. It is important to know that you must check with the university websites for specific documents and eligibility requirements before applying.
Documents required at the time of application- Academic transcripts
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation (if applicable)
Career prospects after building and construction courses in Australia
The construction industry is experiencing high demand for its workforce. Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics consistently shows a significant number of job vacancies in the construction sector. For instance, in February 2024, there were 279,000 job vacancies in this industry, underscoring the strong need for skilled workers
As per LinkedIn, New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and Western Australia have the most vacancies for construction jobs. SEEK or the official website for the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations are where you would find most of the job listings.
Here are some of the key career opportunities after building and construction courses in Australia:
|
Job Role |
Average Salary (AUD/year) |
|
Construction Manager |
AU $120,000 - $200,000 |
|
Project Manager |
AU $100,000 - $180,000 |
|
Site Supervisor |
AU $80,000 - $130,000 |
|
Quantity Surveyor |
AU $90,000 - $150,000 |
|
Civil Engineer |
AU $90,000 - $160,000 |
|
Building Inspector |
AU $75,000 - $120,000 |
|
Estimator |
AU $85,000 - $140,000 |
Builder Apprentice Earnings
Apprenticeships are an important part of the building and construction programme. This gives students hands-on experience in the construction industry in Australia and helps build network connections for future jobs. The builder apprentice pay can be divided into two types:
1. Apprentice pay: To get apprentice pay, you need a formal training contract with your employer, and it has to be registered with your state or territory's training authority. You will also be doing your course through a Registered Training Organisation (like TAFE).Not all apprentices earn the same—here is what affects your pay:
- If you are 21 years or above, you will be eligible for 'adult apprentices' and get higher rates.
- School-based apprentices can still earn while finishing high school.
- Your pay goes up as you move through your apprenticeship—either by:
- Time-based progress (e.g., every 12 months), or
- Competency-based progress (when you hit key training milestones).
And if you are studying for a diploma? You might not be covered by trainee pay rates at all—you will likely be paid the standard rate for your role under your industry or occupation award.
Studying building and construction courses in Australia has an array of jobs to take on, right from foreman and site supervisor to much bigger roles like construction managers and project engineers. You can make use of the 'Builder Apprentice Earnings' and get hands-on skills and earn up to AU $23/hour. (Source: Talent.com). It is a fast-paced industry, and with a globally acknowledged degree, you are sure to make your way around the world for work.
The trick is to get into a good university under a good building and construction programme in Australia to ensure you can meet the benefits of the construction industry in Australia. Here is where AECC experts can help you. Speak to an AECC expert and explore colleges and universities offering the best building and construction courses in Australia that meet your needs perfectly.
FAQS
Which course is best for building construction?
Australia offers a wide range of building and construction courses to suit different student needs. If you are looking for a short-term option, the Diploma of Building and Construction is a great choice, providing practical skills and industry-relevant knowledge. For those who want to specialise in a particular area within a shorter timeframe, Certificate III and Certificate IV in Building and Construction offer focused, hands-on training. If you are aiming for a long-term career in the construction industry, pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in construction management or a related field can lead to higher-paying roles and greater career advancement opportunities.
How do I get a building and construction license in Australia?
To get a building and construction licence in Australia, you must be 18 years old and possess the necessary qualifications, such as a Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building) or an equivalent qualification. Additionally, relevant industry experience is essential, and you may be required to pass a written examination, depending on the state or territory. A national police check is also typically part of the application process.
What construction job is most in demand?
Construction project managers, project builders, carpenters and electricians are some of the most in-demand construction jobs in Australia. These roles are required in the infrastructure projects and housing projects all over Australia. These demands are spread out in both the government and the private sector of the Australian economy.
