Western Australia (WA) is making a bold push to attract skilled tradespeople from across Australia and New Zealand to help address a labour shortage that is slowing down vital housing projects in Perth’s growing suburbs. The WA Government has extended its Build a Life initiative, offering up to $10,000 in relocation incentives to workers willing to make the move west. The program aims to bolster the state’s workforce, particularly in construction, where demand for skilled workers is at an all-time high due to ongoing infrastructure projects and a booming housing market.
The Build a Life initiative is a government-backed scheme designed to encourage skilled workers, particularly those in construction and trades to relocate to Western Australia. The initiative offers a financial incentive of up to $10,000, along with additional support to make the transition smoother for those moving from other parts of Australia or even New Zealand.
The program has been extended to include New Zealand citizens, recognizing the shared workforce demand and the strong economic ties between WA and its neighbouring country. This decision aims to tap into a broader pool of skilled professionals who can contribute to WA’s growing economy.
For official details and eligibility criteria, prospective applicants can visit the Jobs and Skills WA website.
The financial incentive will be paid in two stages:
For more details on how the payments will be processed, visit the WA Government’s official announcement.
While the financial incentive is a significant draw, there are several reasons why tradespeople and their families might find moving to WA appealing beyond just the cash bonus.
WA is experiencing a surge in infrastructure projects, residential housing developments and major mining expansions. This means steady work opportunities for tradies, electricians, carpenters, plumbers and other skilled workers. Unlike the more saturated markets of Sydney and Melbourne, WA offers greater job security and higher wages in many trades.
Compared to Australia’s eastern capitals, Perth offers a more affordable housing market with spacious properties, lower congestion, and a relaxed suburban lifestyle. For tradespeople looking to buy a home, WA provides more value for money, making homeownership a more achievable goal.
Here is a list of the 10 most affordable suburbs to buy around Perth in 2024:
10 Most Affordable Suburbs - Perth, 2024
WA is known for its outdoor lifestyle, world-class beaches and stunning landscapes. The state offers a work-life balance that many find difficult to achieve in the busier, high-paced environments of Sydney or Melbourne. With plenty of national parks, hiking trails and a thriving food and wine scene! Western Australia provides an excellent environment for both individuals and families.
For those with families, WA has excellent schools, universities and a strong healthcare system. Perth in particular, is regarded as a safe and family-friendly city with plenty of parks, recreational activities and a sense of community that appeals to many Australians looking for a change from the hustle and bustle of larger cities.
The initiative is not just about boosting employment but also about solving WA’s housing crisis. The state government has acknowledged that the lack of skilled workers has delayed the construction of much-needed homes. By attracting tradies from around the country, WA aims to expedite housing development, reduce construction timelines and address growing housing demands in suburban areas.
Western Australia’s Minister for Training and Workforce Development, Simone McGurk, emphasized the importance of this initiative stating:
“We need more skilled workers to meet the demand for housing and infrastructure. This incentive is about ensuring we have the people we need to build the future of WA.”
Tradespeople interested in making the move can apply through the Jobs and Skills WA website. The process involves:
For further information, you can also check the WA Government’s official media release.
The $10,000 incentive for tradies to move to Western Australia presents a rare opportunity for skilled workers looking to relocate for better job security, higher wages and an improved quality of life. With a strong economy, a growing housing market, and an unparalleled lifestyle, WA is positioning itself as a top destination for those in construction and related trades.
For those considering the move, now might be the perfect time to take advantage of this government-backed opportunity and build a life in WA.
Here's a list of open roles listed around Perth and Western Australia now: