Skills assessment or RPL: which one do I need?
Two very different things that overseas tradies often mix up. Here is what each one does, who it is for, and how to pick the right first step for your trade.
The short answer
Both start from the skills you already have. They lead to different results.
Recognises what you already have
An assessing authority such as Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) checks your overseas qualification and paid employment against the Australian standard. It is used for skilled migration and, in licensed trades, it is the first step towards a state licence.
Turns experience into an Australian qualification
A registered training organisation (RTO) assesses your real work experience and issues a nationally recognised Australian qualification, such as a Certificate III, without making you repeat training.
Side by side
The key differences at a glance.
| Skills assessment | RPL | |
|---|---|---|
| Who assesses you | An assessing authority, most often TRA. Some TRA programs are run by approved training organisations. | A registered training organisation (RTO) |
| What you get | An assessment outcome. In licensed trades: an Offshore Technical Skills Record (OTSR). | A nationally recognised Australian qualification (e.g. Certificate III) |
| Main use | Skilled migration applications; first step to a licence in licensed trades | Better jobs and pay; an Australian qualification you can use with TRA |
| What is checked | Your qualification and your paid employment | Your skills and experience against the units of the qualification |
| Typical evidence | Qualification, transcripts, employment references, payslips | References, payslips, photos and videos of your work, any certificates |
| Licence | Does not give you a licence on its own | Does not give you a licence on its own |
Trade licences are issued by each state or territory regulator, not by TRA or by an RTO.
Licensed or non-licensed trade?
This is the first question to answer, because it changes the pathway.
Electrician, plumber, air-con & refrigeration mechanic
TRA assesses these occupations through a dedicated licensed-trade program. A successful result gives you an OTSR, which you use to apply for a licence in your state. States usually add conditions such as gap training or supervised work.
Carpenter, welder, motor mechanic, fitter, bricklayer, chef
No trade licence is needed to work as an employee in most states. RPL is often the fastest way to an Australian qualification, and that qualification can then support a skills assessment if you need one for a visa.
Which one fits your situation?
Find the sentence that sounds most like you.
“I’m an electrician, plumber or air-con mechanic and I want to work in my trade.”
Start with a TRA skills assessment, then apply for your state licence with your OTSR.
“I’m in a non-licensed trade and I want better jobs and pay in Australia.”
RPL is usually the right first step: it gives you an Australian qualification employers recognise.
“I need a skills assessment for skilled migration.”
You need an assessment from the authority for your occupation, often TRA. If you have experience but no formal qualification, TRA can still assess your employment. RPL is an option if your evidence is limited. For visa advice, speak to a registered migration agent.
“I’m honestly not sure.”
That’s normal. Answer 6 quick questions and we’ll tell you which pathway fits your trade, experience and situation.
Two facts that change everything
Straight from Trades Recognition Australia.
Four licensed occupations must go through this TRA program: Air-conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanic, Electrician (General), Electrician (Special Class) and Plumber (General).
TRA assesses your qualification and/or your paid employment: a formal qualification is not mandatory if your experience is sufficient. If your evidence is limited, RPL with an Australian registered training organisation gives you a nationally recognised Australian qualification.
Check your eligibility in 60 seconds
Tell us about your trade and experience. We’ll tell you exactly what you qualify for. Free, no commitment.
Frequently asked questions
Can I do both?
Yes. Many tradies in non-licensed trades do RPL first to get an Australian qualification, then use it in a skills assessment if they need one for a visa.
Does RPL give me a licence?
No. Licences are issued by your state or territory regulator. For electricians, plumbers and air-con mechanics trained overseas, the usual route starts with a TRA skills assessment.
Is an RPL qualification a real Australian qualification?
Yes. RPL leads to the same nationally recognised qualification as completing the course. You simply don’t repeat training for skills you already have.
Which assessing authority do I need?
It depends on your occupation. Most trades are assessed by TRA, and some occupations use other authorities such as VETASSESS. TRA’s Program Pathfinder shows which TRA program applies to your passport and occupation.
Do you give visa advice?
No. Oversix helps with skills recognition: skills assessment, RPL and licensing. We are not registered migration agents. For visa advice, speak to a registered migration agent.
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