In 2026, a growing trend shows that UK engineers are moving to Australia for better jobs, higher pay and a chance to get Australia PR (Permanent Residency). One of the main reasons is that UK engineers are seeing 50% or more salary boosts when they move to Australia for similar roles. Due to the shortage of skilled engineers, Australia is inviting skilled engineers in field like mechanical, civil, electrical, software, and mining. This makes it easier for qualified professionals to apply for Australia PR and build a new life. In addition to higher pay, engineers benefit from a better work life balance, strong employee rights and long term settlement options.

1. Higher Salaries and Better Financial Rewards

UK engineers are seeing 50% or more salary hike when they move to Australia for similar roles. Although australia’s cost of living is about 5-20% higher than the UK’s especially for groceries and rent.
The average salaries of mechanical engineeers in UK range around £36,000–61,000 while in Australia average AUD 90,000–110,000 annually (approximately £47,000–57,000 GBP) with experienced professionals earning up to AUD 200,000 in sectors like mining or oil & gas.

Software and civil engineers echo this pattern, with Australian roles in mining, infrastructure and renewable energy offering premium pay due to skills shortages.

2. Strong Demand and Job Opportunities in Engineering

Australia is facing a severe engineering labour shortage, described as the worst in over a decade. This drives demand across civil, mechanical, electrical, mining and software engineering particularly in infrastructure, renewable energy and resources sectors. Due to the shortage of skilled engineers, companies are offering premium pay.

Many engineering occupations are listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List. Qualified engineers may apply for the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) or the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190), depending on their occupation, points score and state requirements. To check your eligibility, use Austrlaia PR Points Calculator.

3. Superior Lifestyle and Work-Life Balance

• Weather and outdoors — UK engineers tired of grey skies and rain are drawn to Australia’s sunshine, beaches, and outdoor lifestyle.

• Work-life balance — Australian engineering roles typically offer more generous leave, flexible hours, and less intense “hustle culture” compared to London or Manchester firms.

• Space and quality of life — Housing is more affordable outside Australia’s major cities, with bigger homes and easy access to nature. This is very different from the UK, where property prices are high and space is often limited.

4. Clear Pathways to Australia PR for Engineers

Australia welcomes skilled migrants, especially engineers. Popular options include:

• Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): Points-based, no sponsor needed.
• Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): State-sponsored for extra points.
• Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491): For regional areas, leading to PR.

UK engineers often score high points due to age, English skills, qualifications, and experience. Many get invitations quickly.  For more accurate information conuslt australia pr agent who can help you understand eligibility, improve your points strategy, and prepare a strong application from the start.

5. Australia PR Cost and Procedure

The Australia PR cost varies, but here’s a simple breakdown for 2026 (main applicant, skilled migration):

• Government visa fee: Around AUD 4,910 (about £2,500–£2,600).
• Skills assessment (Engineers Australia): AUD 500–1,500 depending on type.
• Other costs: English test (like IELTS/PTE), health checks, police clearance—total extra AUD 1,000–3,000.
• Full estimated cost for one person: AUD 7,000–10,000 (including all steps).

Simple Steps in the Australia PR Procedure

The process is straightforward but takes some time and careful planning:

1. Get your skills assessed — Send your qualifications to the right authority (like Engineers Australia for engineers) to confirm they match Australian standards.
2. Take an English test — Prove your language skills with a test like IELTS or PTE.
3. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) — Put your details into the SkillSelect system online.
4. Receive an invitation — If your points are high enough, the government invites you to apply.
5. Lodge your visa application — Pay the fees, upload all documents, and wait for approval.

The whole thing often takes 6 to 12 months or longer, depending on your occupation, points score, and how busy the system is.

A lot of people choose to work with a good Australia PR consultant or Australia PR agent to make sure everything is done right and avoid delays or rejections. Always pick someone registered with MARA (Migration Agents Registration Authority). GIEC Global UK is proud to have its own MARA registered migration agent, offering you direct access to professional and reliable immigration advice. Unlike many other agencies, we do not rely on third-party consultants, because we don’t pay high outsourcing fees, the cost savings are passed directly on to you.