Automotive Mechanic Jobs in Australia with Visa Sponsorship
Are you trying to apply for high-income automotive mechanic jobs in Australia where employers genuinely offer visa sponsorship, retirement benefits, paid training, and weekly payments that can reach AUD $1,200–$1,900? You’re on the right page.
This guide breaks down everything you must know about signing up for mechanic immigration pathways, the real salaries, the companies hiring now, and how you can apply even from Nigeria, the UK, India, Kenya, Ghana, or the UAE.
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Why Choose Automotive Mechanic Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
If you’ve been dreaming of relocating abroad through secure employment, automotive mechanic jobs in Australia offer one of the fastest and most profitable ways to do it.
Employers across cities like Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, and Sydney are competing for skilled applicants because Australians depend heavily on consistent vehicle servicing, and the pay reflects that.
Most mechanics who secure visa sponsorship earn between AUD $65,000 and $110,000 yearly, depending on location and level of certification.
On some sponsored roles, overtime work alone can add an additional AUD $400–$600 weekly, making the job even more financially rewarding.
Many immigrants prefer mechanic jobs because they provide:
- Stable work hours with guaranteed weekly payments.
- Free or subsidized relocation packages worth AUD $2,000–$7,000.
- Visa options such as the 482 TSS, 186 Employer Nomination Scheme, and 494 Regional Visa.
- Career advancement from basic servicing roles to specialist diagnostics and workshop supervisor positions with salaries above AUD $120,000.
Choosing sponsorship means you’re not just applying for a job, you’re applying for long-term immigration security in a country where skilled tradespeople are heavily valued.
Types of Automotive Mechanic Jobs in Australia
Australia offers multiple mechanic job categories, and the beauty is that almost all of them qualify for visa sponsorship if you meet the eligibility criteria.
Whether you’re trained in petrol, diesel, EV, hydraulics, or heavy machinery, there’s a role waiting for you.
Here are the most in-demand mechanic job types:
- Automotive Service Technician: Routine servicing, diagnosis, inspections. Salaries range from AUD $60,000–$90,000.
- Diesel Mechanic: Trucks, buses, heavy-duty engines. Earnings hover between AUD $75,000–$120,000 depending on employer and overtime.
- Heavy Vehicle Mechanic: Mining vehicles, construction equipment. Workers in Western Australia and Queensland often earn AUD $100,000–$145,000.
- Auto Electrician: High-skill role servicing electronic systems. Salaries average AUD $80,000–$130,000.
- Motorcycle Mechanic: Maintenance and repairs for bikes. Income ranges AUD $55,000–$80,000.
- Body Repair Technician: Collision repair roles with pay between AUD $65,000–$95,000.
- Fleet Maintenance Mechanic: Government or corporate fleets. Earnings around AUD $70,000–$115,000.
- EV (Electric Vehicle) Mechanic: One of Australia’s fastest-growing sectors now paying AUD $85,000–$140,000.
If you’re looking for jobs that guarantee both sponsorship and higher income, heavy vehicle and diesel mechanic sectors remain the highest paying due to the mining industry’s massive demand.
High Paying Automotive Mechanic Jobs with Visa Sponsorship in Australia
Some roles in Australia offer significantly higher salaries due to regional shortages, mining industry needs, and the rising cost of skilled labor.
Mechanics who work in remote regions, especially in Western Australia and Northern Territory, can earn salaries that go toe-to-toe with tech professionals in countries like the United States or Canada.
Here are the high-paying mechanic jobs most likely to come with sponsorship:
- Heavy Diesel Mechanic: AUD $110,000–$145,000 yearly plus housing allowance, bonuses, and flight payments.
- Mining Equipment Mechanic / Mobile Plant Mechanic: AUD $120,000–$160,000 yearly due to FIFO (Fly-In-Fly-Out) rosters.
- Auto Electrician: AUD $90,000–$135,000 yearly, especially in mining-heavy zones.
- Hydraulic Technician: AUD $85,000–$125,000 with strong sponsorship prospects.
- Workshop Supervisor or Lead Mechanic: AUD $100,000–$150,000, often leading to permanent residency sponsorship.
- EV Technician: AUD $90,000–$140,000, especially with companies expanding into electric fleets.
Most sponsored roles are full-time positions, with overtime boosting monthly take-home pay to AUD $7,000–$12,000. Employers are willing to sponsor foreigners because the demand for skilled mechanics is growing faster than Australia’s local workforce.
Salary Expectations for Automotive Mechanics
Your earning potential as a mechanic in Australia depends on your specialization, years of experience, certifications, and the region you choose. But overall, even entry-level workers still make competitive salaries that support a comfortable lifestyle.
Here’s what many immigrants earn:
- Entry-Level Mechanics: AUD $55,000–$70,000
- Mid-Level Mechanics: AUD $70,000–$95,000
- Senior Mechanics: AUD $95,000–$130,000
- Mining & Heavy Diesel: AUD $120,000–$160,000
- Auto Electricians: AUD $85,000–$130,000
Weekly payments typically range from AUD $1,300–$2,400 depending on workload and overtime.
Most employers offer additional benefits such as paid leave, superannuation retirement contributions (usually 10.5%), relocation allowances, and visa support.
Below is a well-structured table summarizing the job types and their salary ranges:
| JOB TYPE | SALARY RANGE (AUD) |
| Automotive Service Technician | $60,000–$90,000 |
| Diesel Mechanic | $75,000–$120,000 |
| Heavy Vehicle Mechanic | $100,000–$145,000 |
| Auto Electrician | $80,000–$130,000 |
| Motorcycle Mechanic | $55,000–$80,000 |
| Panel Beater | $65,000–$95,000 |
| Fleet Maintenance Mechanic | $70,000–$115,000 |
| EV Technician | $85,000–$140,000 |
| Mining Equipment Mechanic | $120,000–$160,000 |
Eligibility Criteria for Automotive Mechanics
Before employers in Australia can sponsor you for these high-demand mechanic jobs, there are specific eligibility criteria you must meet. Thankfully, most immigrants already meet 70–80% of the requirements because automotive skills are globally transferable.
Employers want to ensure that the people they sponsor can perform hands-on tasks, follow safety standards, and deliver value from day one, especially when salaries run from AUD $60,000 to $150,000 per year.
To qualify, you generally need:
- A minimum of 2–5 years of experience in automotive repair, diesel engines, diagnostics, or heavy vehicle maintenance.
- Evidence of formal training such as NVQ, Diploma, Trade Test, or Technical Certification.
- Ability to operate diagnostic tools, scan systems, and repair modern mechanical and electronic components.
- English proficiency, often proven through IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL unless exempt.
- Good health and character requirements for visa processing.
- A willingness to relocate to cities like Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, or regional towns where salaries can be even higher.
Most importantly, sponsorship employers prefer applicants who are ready to apply, adapt, and work full-time with weekly payments and retirement contributions included.
Requirements for Automotive Mechanics
Every job posting in Australia will outline specific requirements, and meeting them increases your chances of getting sponsored faster.
With yearly earnings stretching between AUD $70,000 and $160,000, employers must confirm that you can handle technical duties and meet safety guidelines.
You may be required to have:
- A valid passport with at least 2–3 years of validity.
- A well-structured CV showing practical tasks performed such as engine overhaul, diagnostics, suspension repairs, and brake systems.
- Experience using modern tools like OBD-II scanners, hydraulic lifts, and electrical testing equipment.
- International experience working with petrol, diesel, hybrid, or EV vehicles.
- Trade qualification assessments such as TRA (Trades Recognition Australia) if seeking permanent visas.
- References from previous employers confirming your skills and job performance.
- Basic understanding of Australian workplace safety, equipment handling, and customer service.
The stronger your application documents, the higher your earning potential, especially in regions like Queensland and Western Australia where mining companies offer salaries above AUD $140,000.
Visa Options for Automotive Mechanics
Australia has multiple immigration pathways specifically tailored for skilled workers, especially mechanics. With annual mechanic salaries ranging from AUD $60,000–$160,000, the government makes it easier for employers to sponsor foreign technicians.
Here are the most popular visa options:
- Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa – 482: Allows you to work for 2–4 years with salaries between AUD $65,000–$120,000. Many employers upgrade this visa to permanent residency.
- Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa – 494: Gives up to 5 years of work rights in regional areas, where jobs often pay AUD $90,000–$140,000 due to labour shortages.
- Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa – 186: A permanent residency visa for skilled workers earning AUD $80,000–$130,000 annually.
- Skilled Independent Visa – 189 and 190 State Nomination: Points-based visas ideal for mechanics with ample experience and strong English scores. Salaries vary by employer but often start at AUD $75,000.
- Working Holiday Visa (for eligible countries): Suitable for younger applicants wanting short-term mechanic roles while earning AUD $1,200–$1,800 weekly.
Sponsorship gives stability, higher pay, and a direct pathway to Australian immigration—especially for mechanics with specialized diesel or heavy vehicle experience.
Documents Checklist for Automotive Mechanics
To ensure you don’t get rejected during the visa or job application process, you need a complete set of supporting documents.
Employers offering AUD $70,000–$150,000 mechanic jobs expect applicants to upload or email verified documents that prove competence and professionalism.
Here is the essential documents checklist:
- Passport bio-data page (valid for at least 2–3 years).
- Updated CV tailored to automotive jobs in Australia.
- Trade certificates, diplomas, or technical qualifications.
- Employment reference letters with duties and job titles.
- Proof of work experience (payslips, ID cards, appointment letters).
- Skills assessment documents (TRA) if required.
- English test results (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL) if applicable.
- Police clearance certificate.
- Medical examination report for visa processing.
- Any additional certifications (EV repair, diagnostics, diesel engines).
- Portfolio or photos of jobs done (optional but often helpful).
A complete documents file increases the likelihood of sponsorship approval and can lead to faster processing times, especially when employers urgently need workers for positions in Sydney, Perth, or regional mining hubs.
How to Apply for Automotive Mechanic Jobs in Australia
Applying for automotive mechanic jobs with visa sponsorship in Australia is a straightforward process if you follow the correct steps. Most employers want applicants who can sign up quickly, submit all required documents, and show they are ready to relocate.
Since many of these roles pay between AUD $70,000 and $150,000, the competition is high, but foreign applicants still get priority because Australia currently faces a nationwide mechanic shortage.
Here’s how to apply:
- Prepare a professional CV highlighting your technical experience, tools you’ve used, and systems you’ve worked on.
- Gather all essential documents including certificates, references, and passport.
- Visit reputable job boards like SEEK, Indeed Australia, Workforce Australia, and JobActive.
- Search for “Automotive Mechanic Visa Sponsorship,” “Diesel Mechanic Sponsorship Jobs,” or “Automotive Technician 482 Visa.”
- Apply directly on employer websites for companies offering relocation payments and visa support.
- If shortlisted, attend interviews online via Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams.
- Once selected, your employer begins the sponsorship and visa application process.
The faster you apply, the faster you secure a job with consistent weekly payments, retirement benefits, and long-term immigration pathways.
Top Employers & Companies Hiring Automotive Mechanics in Australia
Australia’s automotive, mining, and transportation sectors are constantly hiring foreign mechanics because local supply cannot meet demand. Many employers provide relocation packages worth AUD $2,000–$7,000, visa sponsorship, and annual salaries up to AUD $150,000.
Some of the top companies hiring now include:
- Toyota Australia: Hiring technicians, EV mechanics, and diagnostic specialists.
- Komatsu: Known for high-paying heavy diesel and mining mechanic jobs.
- BHP & Rio Tinto: Offering mining maintenance roles with sponsorship and salaries above AUD $140,000.
- Penske Australia: Hiring diesel mechanics and fleet technicians.
- Sime Darby Motors: Recruiting service technicians nationwide.
- Cummins Australia: Offers 482 visa sponsorship for diesel engineers and mechanics.
- Volvo Group Australia: Hiring truck and heavy vehicle mechanics.
- Bridgestone & Goodyear: Hiring tire technicians and service mechanics.
Employers in regional areas often offer higher pay because of labour shortages. Many also provide accommodation support, making relocation easier for immigrants.
Where to Find Automotive Mechanic Jobs in Australia
If you want to secure a mechanic job fast, you must apply where employers actively recruit foreigners. Australian job platforms list thousands of mechanic roles with salaries ranging from AUD $65,000 to $160,000, depending on the specialization.
The best places to find these jobs include:
- SEEK: Largest Australian job board.
- Indeed: Good for visa sponsorship filtering.
- LinkedIn Jobs: Perfect for direct employer applications.
- JobActive Australia: Government job portal.
- Workforce Australia: Strong for regional jobs with higher salaries.
- Company Career Pages: Toyota, Cummins, Volvo, Komatsu, and mining firms.
- Recruitment Agencies: Hays, Randstad, TechForce, WorkPac, and Programmed.
Most recruitment campaigns begin in January–March and July–September, so applying during these periods increases your chance of securing sponsorship.
Working in Australia as Automotive Mechanics
Working as an automotive mechanic in Australia is one of the most rewarding career moves for immigrants because of the stable payments, career growth, and long-term immigration benefits.
On average, mechanics earn AUD $1,300–$2,400 weekly, depending on overtime and specialization. Heavy diesel mechanics in Western Australia and Queensland sometimes earn even more due to mining allowances.
When working in Australia, you can expect:
- Modern workshops equipped with advanced diagnostic tools.
- Paid annual leave, sick leave, and retirement contributions (superannuation).
- Flexible work hours depending on location and employer.
- Career upgrades into workshop supervisor or service manager roles.
- Opportunities to apply for permanent residency after two to three years.
Employers value efficiency, punctuality, customer service, and strong diagnostic skills. If you already have hands-on experience, transitioning into the Australian automotive market is easy and well-paid.
Why Employers in Australia Want to Sponsor Automotive Mechanics
The reason is simple: Australia does not have enough mechanics to keep up with the country’s expanding automotive, transportation, and mining industries.
Many workshops and fleets are struggling to fill technical roles, which is why companies are willing to sponsor foreign applicants, even offering salaries up to AUD $150,000 with relocation incentives.
Employers choose sponsorship because:
- Local enrolment in automotive apprenticeship programs has dropped.
- Mining and construction industries require massive mechanical support.
- Electric and hybrid vehicle growth requires skilled diagnostic technicians.
- Regional towns face severe labour shortages.
- Foreign mechanics often come with diverse experience that boosts workshop efficiency.
Sponsoring foreign workers helps businesses maintain productivity, meet deadlines, reduce downtime, and stay competitive.
FAQ about Automotive Mechanic Jobs in Australia
What qualifications do I need to work as a mechanic in Australia?
You need a trade certificate or technical qualification and at least 2–3 years of experience. Salaries generally start from AUD $60,000.
Do Australian employers sponsor foreign mechanics?
Yes. Thousands of employers offer sponsorship because mechanic roles are on the Skilled Occupation List and pay between AUD $70,000–$150,000.
How much do diesel mechanics earn in Australia?
Diesel mechanics earn between AUD $75,000 and $120,000, with mining employers offering up to AUD $160,000 yearly.
Do I need IELTS to get a mechanic job in Australia?
Most visa pathways require English tests like IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL, unless you’re exempt based on nationality or employer requirements.
Can I get PR as an automotive mechanic?
Yes. Many mechanics transition from the 482 visa to the 186 Permanent Residency visa after 2–3 years of full-time employment.
How long does it take to process the visa?
Most employer-sponsored visas take 3–6 months, depending on the employer’s documentation and the applicant’s readiness.
Are mechanic jobs available in regional Australia?
Yes. Regional areas offer some of the highest-paying roles, with salaries between AUD $90,000 and $140,000 and additional benefits.
Can I apply from overseas?
Absolutely. Most sponsored mechanic jobs allow international applicants to apply directly from countries like Nigeria, India, UAE, UK, Kenya, Ghana, and South Africa.
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