Demand for Mechanical Engineers in Australia

Sree Lakshmi R Gopal P
By Sree Lakshmi R Gopal P
Immigration Content Expert

Australia continues to be one of the most promising destinations for skilled professionals, and mechanical engineers in Australia are experiencing a strong rise in demand across multiple industries. With major infrastructure development, renewable energy projects, advanced manufacturing, and mining expansion, the country offers excellent career opportunities, competitive salaries, and clear migration pathways.

Whether you’re an experienced engineer or a recent graduate aiming to build a future in Australia, here’s everything you need to know.

Are Mechanical Engineers in Demand in Australia?

Yes, mechanical engineers are in high demand in Australia. Mechanical engineering is listed under the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO Code 233512) and is included in the Skilled Occupation List (SOL), making it eligible for multiple visa pathways.

Demand is driven by:

  • Growth in infrastructure and construction
  • Expansion of renewable energy projects
  • Increased automation and advanced manufacturing
  • High demand in mining and resources sector
  • Shortage of local engineering graduates

This shortage means Australian employers actively recruit both local and foreign mechanical engineers to fill the talent gap.

Why Is the Demand for Mechanical Engineers in Australia Increasing?

Several industry trends are fueling the need for mechanical engineers in Australia:

1. Massive Infrastructure Investment

Projects involving transport networks, smart cities, and utilities require mechanical engineering expertise.

2. Renewable Energy Boom

Wind turbines, solar farms, energy storage, and hydrogen technology have created thousands of engineering roles.

3. Mining & Resources Sector Growth

Australia’s mining giants—Rio Tinto, BHP, Fortescue—depend heavily on mechanical engineers for operations, maintenance, and modernization.

4. Digital Transformation & Automation

Industries are adopting robotics, automation, and Industry 4.0 technologies, requiring specialized mechanical engineers.

5. Skilled Talent Shortage

Not enough local graduates are available to meet demand—opening ”doors for mechanical engineering jobs in Australia for foreigners.

Roles & Responsibilities of Mechanical Engineers in Australia

Mechanical engineers in Australia typically work across design, manufacturing, maintenance, and project management. Their roles may include:

  • Designing mechanical systems, machines, and components
  • Conducting research, simulations, and feasibility analysis
  • Supervising manufacturing processes and quality control
  • Maintaining and upgrading industrial equipment
  • Implementing automation and energy-efficient systems
  • Performing testing and troubleshooting
  • Preparing engineering documentation and technical reports
  • Ensuring compliance with Australian engineering and safety standards

Mechanical Engineering Jobs in Australia for Foreigners

Australia’s immigration system actively supports skilled migration. International professionals can apply for:

  • Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
  • Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
  • Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)
  • Employer Sponsored Visa (Subclass 482/186)

Foreigners are hired in sectors such as:

  • Mining & resources
  • Oil & gas
  • Construction
  • Defence and aerospace
  • Renewable energy
  • Manufacturing
  • HVAC and building services
  • Automotive & robotics

With the right skill assessment and IELTS/PTE scores, foreign mechanical engineers can confidently migrate and work in Australia.

Eligibility & Requirements for Mechanical Engineers to Migrate to Australia

Eligibility and Requirements for mechanical engineers to migrate to Australia
To migrate as a mechanical engineer, you must meet:

1. ANZSCO Code 233512

Your education and experience must match the ANZSCO code for mechanical engineers.

2. Skill Assessment by Engineers Australia

A positive Engineers Australia skill assessment is mandatory.

You can apply through:

  • CDR pathway (Competency Demonstration Report)
  • Washington Accord pathway
  • Sydney Accord / Dublin Accord pathways

3. Educational Qualification

A bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.

4. English Language Proficiency

IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL scores meeting the required threshold.

5. Work Experience (Optional but beneficial)

Experience enhances your points for skilled migration.

6. Health & Character Requirements

All applicants must pass medical and police checks.

How to Become a Mechanical Engineer in Australia?

If you’re already an engineer overseas or planning to study in Australia, here’s the pathway:

For International Engineers:

1. Get your qualifications assessed by Engineers Australia

2. Submit EOI through SkillSelect

3. Receive state nomination (if applicable)

4. Apply for your skilled visa

5. Move to Australia and register with Engineers Australia if required

For Students in Australia:

1. Complete an accredited engineering degree

2. Gain experience through internships

3. Apply for post-study work visa (485)

4.Gain skilled experience and apply for PR pathways

Salary of Mechanical Engineers in Australia

Mechanical engineers earn highly competitive salaries.

Here’s the general salary range:

Experience Level Average Annual Salary (AUD)
Entry-level AUD 65,000 – 80,000
Mid-level AUD 85,000 – 110,000
Senior-level AUD 120,000 – 150,000+
Specialized roles (Mining, Oil & Gas) AUD 150,000 – 180,000+

Hourly wages vary from AUD 40 to 80+ depending on region and specialization.

Mechanical Engineering Companies in Australia

Australia hosts some of the world’s top mechanical engineering employers and some of them are given by:

  • BHP
  • Rio Tinto
  • Fortescue Metals Group
  • AECOM
  • WSP Global
  • Jacobs Engineering
  • Woodside Energy
  • Santos Ltd
  • Downer Group
  • Siemens Australia
  • UGL
  • Transurban

These companies frequently offer mechanical engineering jobs in Australia with visa sponsorship.

Mechanical Engineering Jobs in Australia with Visa Sponsorship

Many employers hire international candidates under the TSS 482 Employer-Sponsored Visa or Employer Nomination Scheme (186 Visa).

Sectors offering sponsorship include:

  • Mining and mineral processing
  • Oil and gas production
  • Construction and infrastructure
  • Renewable energy
  • HVAC and building services
  • Manufacturing and automation

Sponsorship jobs are commonly found in Western Australia, Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria.

Conclusion

The demand for mechanical engineers in Australia remains strong in 2026, driven by infrastructure growth, renewable energy projects, and mining expansion. With competitive salaries, global employers, and clear PR pathways, Australia continues to be an attractive destination for both experienced professionals and fresh graduates. Engineers with the right qualifications and a positive skill assessment can confidently plan their career and migration journey with the guidance of trusted Australia immigration consultants in India, CanApprove.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is mechanical engineering on the skilled occupation list in Australia?
Yes. Mechanical Engineer (ANZSCO Code 233512) is listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List, making it eligible for multiple skilled migration visa pathways.
What skills are required for mechanical engineers in Australia?
Key skills include proficiency in CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, CATIA), knowledge of Australian Standards, project management, thermodynamics and fluid mechanics, robotics and automation, and strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
Can foreign mechanical engineers get a job in Australia?
Yes. Australia has a skills shortage in engineering and actively recruits foreign mechanical engineers through skilled migration visas and employer-sponsored programs.
Which cities pay best for mechanical engineers in Australia?
Top-paying cities include Perth, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney. Mining regions in Western Australia and Queensland typically offer the highest salaries.
What industries hire mechanical engineers in Australia?
Mechanical engineers are hired across industries such as mining and energy, construction, defence and aerospace, renewable energy, manufacturing and automation, and HVAC and building services.
What is the entry-level mechanical engineer salary in Australia?
Entry-level mechanical engineers generally earn between AUD 65,000 and AUD 80,000 per year, depending on location and employer.
Is mechanical engineering a good career in Australia?
Yes. Mechanical engineering offers competitive salaries, strong job security, long-term career growth, and excellent permanent residency pathways, making it a highly in-demand profession in Australia.


Sree Lakshmi R Gopal P
Sree Lakshmi R Gopal P

Immigration Content Expert