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Pathway 1 Process

Pathway 1 is for skilled trades people who don't have an Australian qualification or occupational licence.

What is pathway 1?

The main difference between pathway 1 and pathway 2 is whether or not you already have an Australian qualification or relevant occupational licence.

Choose pathway 1 if you DON’T currently hold an Australian qualification and want to apply to get your trade skills assessed by VETASSESS.

trades pathway one

Am I eligible?

To apply with VETASSESS, you’ll need to meet the minimum employment requirements, which are:

  • For licensed trades: 6 years' employment experience (with no formal training)
    OR 4 years' employment experience (with relevant formal training)
  • For non-licensed trades: 5 years' employment experience (with no formal
    training) OR 3 years' employment experience (with relevant formal training).

You also need to have worked in your chosen occupation for at least 12 months in the 3 years prior to submitting your application.

Download the assessment process

Download the Pathway 1 assessment process.

What do I do next?

Choose an option based on whether your occupation is a licensed or non-licensed trade in Australia. Licensed trades are: 

  • Air-conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanic
  • Electrician (General)
  • Electrician (Special Class)
  • Plumber (General)
Pathway 1

For Licensed Trades - Pathway One Licensed Trades

VETASSESS assesses four licensed trade occupations for those wishing to migrate temporarily or permanently to Australia using their existing trade skills.

For licensed trades, there are 3 stages you’ll need to complete in order to get your trade skills assessed.

Pathway One Non-Licensed

For Non-Licensed Trades - Pathway One Non-Licensed Trades

To get your non-licensed trades skills assessed by us, you’ll need to first choose your trade occupation.

For non-licensed trades, there are 2 stages to complete in order for us to assess your skills, knowledge and experience.

Explore resources

Applying for a trade skills assessment with VETASSESS? Explore a range of helpful resources we’ve created to guide you through the assessment process.

Partnering with Australian businesses for more than 25 years

Helpful How to Videos

Get step-by-step instructions on how to apply for a skills assessment, and more, with VETASSESS.

Assessment Locations

Assessment Locations

Find your nearest skills assessment centre in Australia or around the world.


office worker

Read the fact sheet and assessment information for your occupation.

Every trade occupation has a fact sheet and other information about how you will be assessed. 

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