Australia is well known as a car-loving nation. The country has one of the highest rates of vehicle ownership per capita in the world. Although the cars are no longer manufactured locally, the need for skilled automotive professionals is as strong as ever. The constant demand for a qualified workforce stems from a growing population, a heavy reliance on road freight, and the vast distances between cities. Without overseas workers, many businesses simply cannot operate at full capacity. For international automotive professionals, this situation presents numerous opportunities. Especially when obtaining a sponsorship is a clear pathway to obtaining a visa. Today’s article will guide you through the entire process of employer sponsorship.

Cracking the code: how sponsorship works in Australia

In Australia, sponsorship is the process by which an employer nominates a skilled worker from overseas to fill a role they cannot source locally. Without a sponsoring employer, skilled visas cannot even be lodged, which makes sponsorship the foundation of migration for automotive professionals.

For the worker, sponsorship means having an Australian company officially support their visa application and provide a genuine job offer. For the employer, it involves registering with the government as an approved sponsor and committing to meet certain obligations.

In short, sponsorship is the formal link between a skilled automotive professional and an Australian business. Such a link opens the door to both temporary and, in many cases, permanent migration pathways.

Since all of the main skilled migration visas (482, 186, 494, DAMAs, etc.) rely on an Australian employer being willing to act as the sponsor, finding the right company is arguably the most important step in the journey. However, the question arises: how easy is it to find sponsorship?

Would you like to know more about the types of visas? read more

Why finding a sponsor is not always easy

Despite the demand for workers, employer sponsorship is not something offered casually. Businesses must meet strict government requirements before they can sponsor a foreign worker. The sponsorship process usually includes:

• applying to become an approved sponsor— involves proving financial stability and paying registration fees;
• demonstrating that the job cannot be filled locally (by advertising it for at least 28 days);
• covering the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy— costs AUD 1,200 per year for small businesses or AUD 1,800 for larger companies;
• taking responsibility for the worker— ensuring they receive appropriate pay, conditions, and training.

For small automotive workshops, which constitute a large share of the industry, these requirements can be a heavy burden. Many are run by families or local owners who need staff urgently but do not have the resources to navigate sponsorship on their own. This explains why many skilled migrants find it difficult to secure a sponsor directly.

How can automotive professionals increase their chances to get employer sponsorship?

While the sponsorship pathway can be challenging, there are clear strategies that increase the likelihood of success. Based on our experience, automotive professionals should consider:

Qualifications and recognition

Completing a skills assessment through Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) is often essential. Employers feel more confident sponsoring workers whose qualifications are officially recognised in Australia.

English language preparation

Achieving the required IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL score not only meets visa conditions but also reassures employers about workplace communication.

Regional focus

Sponsorship is more available in rural and regional areas, where labour shortages are most acute. Large cities are attractive, but opportunities outside metropolitan areas are often more realistic.

Proactive company searching

Google search with keywords like ‘482 sponsorship in Australia’ or ‘companies with visa sponsorship’ will help search for appropriate opportunities.

Direct engagement & visa options knowledge

Many employers are not familiar with the sponsorship process. Candidates who approach them with knowledge and a clear plan often stand out.

Consultation through agencies and partners

Organizations like ours work directly with employers who are already open to sponsorship, saving time and frustration.

By combining preparation with flexibility, automotive professionals can significantly improve their sponsorship prospects.

Maximise your sponsorship success with us

For automotive professionals worldwide, Australia remains a prime destination in 2025. The continued shortage of skilled workers means employers are open to sponsorship, especially in regional communities, though the process involves costs and strict requirements. However, opportunities remain very real for those prepared to meet these challenges.

At Meenz, we understand these challenges and work to make the journey smoother. Through our trusted partners in Australia, we connect skilled automotive workers with employers open to sponsorship. With our local contacts and guidance, we help make the process easier for those ready to take the next step. 

Get in touch today to see how we can assist you.

Sources: 

https://vacc.com.au/Common/Uploaded%20files/_VACC/Submissions/2024/Skills%20shortages%20.pdf

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/skills-in-demand-visa-subclass-482

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/employer-nomination-scheme-186

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/skilled-employer-sponsored-regional-494

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/employing-and-sponsoring-someone/sponsoring-workers/nominating-a-position/labour-agreements/designated-area-migration-agreements

https://www.sydneymovingguide.com/visas/sponsorship-requirements

https://www.racc.net.au/single-post/how-to-find-an-employer-sponsor-in-australia-2025-guide