Introduction

Australia is in the middle of its biggest construction and infrastructure build-out in decades. Over AUD 230 billion in major projects are underway or planned through 2030 — roads, rail, hospitals, housing, renewable energy, and mining. Construction Project Manager (ANZSCO 133111) sits firmly on the Core Skills Occupation List and enjoys constant demand across every state and territory. For experienced managers, this translates into high salaries, multiple visa pathways, and often permanent residency within 12–18 months.

What a Construction Project Manager Actually Does in Australia

Construction Project Managers (also titled Construction Manager) run the entire lifecycle of building and civil projects. They control budget, schedule, safety, quality, subcontractors, and client reporting. Typical duties include:

  • Managing projects from $10m to $2bn+
  • Ensuring compliance with the National Construction Code and Australian Standards
  • Leading site teams, engineers, and trades
  • Using software such as Procore, Aconex, Primavera P6, and MS Project Head contractors (Lendlease, CPB, John Holland, Multiplex) and tier-2 builders dominate hiring.

State-by-State Demand and Salary Snapshot

New South Wales: Sydney Metro, Western Sydney Airport, and 400,000 new homes drive demand. Average salary AUD 160k–220k. Queensland: Brisbane 2032 Olympics, Cross River Rail, Bruce Highway upgrades. Salaries AUD 150k–210k, strong 491 regional demand. Victoria: Suburban Rail Loop, Level Crossing Removal, Big Build. Salaries AUD 155k–200k. Western Australia: Mining construction and Perth METRONET. Salaries often AUD 180k–250k+ in the Pilbara. South Australia & Tasmania: Frequent 190/491 nomination, lower cost of living, salaries AUD 140k–180k.

Skills Assessment with VETASSESS

VETASSESS assesses ANZSCO 133111. You need:

  • A bachelor degree (or higher) in construction management, civil engineering, quantity surveying, or a closely related field
  • At least one year of highly relevant post-qualification employment at managerial level in the last five years (many succeed with 3–5+ years)
  • Detailed organisational chart and references proving you managed budget, schedule, and teams Processing time is 10–14 weeks. A positive outcome is mandatory for all skilled visas.

Migration Routes That Work in 2025

  1. Skilled Independent (189) – points-tested, no sponsor. 85–100 points common for managers aged under 40.
  2. Skilled Nominated (190) – adds 5 points. NSW, Victoria, Queensland, SA, and Tasmania nominate 133111 regularly.
  3. Skilled Work Regional (491) – adds 15 points and leads to PR after three years. Ideal for Queensland, WA, and regional NSW projects.
  4. Employer Sponsored (482 TSS → 186 ENS) – the fastest route if you already have a job offer. Many builders sponsor experienced managers within weeks.
  5. Skills in Demand Visa – new pathway launched late 2024, core skills tier offers four-year visa with PR pathway.

Salary and Lifestyle Reality

National average base salary sits at AUD 165,000–195,000 + super + bonuses. Top-tier packages in mining and metro projects reach AUD 250,000–350,000 total. Perth and Brisbane currently offer the best salary-to-cost-of-living ratio for new migrants.

Conclusion

Construction Project Managers are in the sweet spot of Australia’s 2025–2030 build-out. Secure your VETASSESS positive assessment, target 85+ points, and choose the visa stream that matches your timeline — many experienced managers land permanent residency and start six-figure roles within a year. Begin your skills assessment now and position yourself for the boom.