Automotive electricians in Western Australia

With increased computer-based equipment and vehicles, automotive electricians are needed now more than ever.

Why not consider Western Australia (WA) if you're seeking a location change?

WA offers a wide range of work typically in a workshop for a self-employed automotive electrician, vehicle dealership, service station, or mine site.

Ensure you have all the information about qualifications and working rights before applying.

Below you can find out more about what you need to be able to work as an automotive electrician in WA, and what you need to move. If you’re ready to check out all the automotive electrical jobs available now, go to Seek.

Automotive electrician licences in WA

To work as an automotive electrician in WA, you’ll need to obtain a Motor Vehicle Repairer's Certificate from the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS). If you don’t hold a current certificate, you can work under the supervision of someone who does.

If you’re applying for a Motor Vehicle Repairer’s Certificate, you’ll need a National Police Check (external link) as part of your application.

Find out more about the certificate and how to register via the DMIRS website.

Required registration and licences

  • Motor Vehicle Repairer’s Certificate; or

  • Work under the supervision of someone who holds a current certificate

  • National Police Check

  • Qualification

  • Photograph

Automotive electricians moving to WA from overseas

You'll need a valid visa to work in Australia. There are several different visa options available, including temporary and permanent visas. Your eligibility will depend on your situation and qualifications. Visa information is available on the Migration WA website.

If you plan to work as an automotive electrician in WA, you may need to have your overseas qualifications recognised. Australian employers often require you to hold a relevant Australian qualification and/or evidence of the relevant occupational licence. 

If you’re already a qualified automotive electrician before arriving in WA, you’re eligible to undertake a Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) (external link).

The assessment will allow you to receive an Offshore Technical Skills Record (OTSR). This will record your technical skills against relevant Australian Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualifications. An OTSR is a nationally recognised document needed to gain a provisional licence.

You can apply through the Offshore Skills Assessment Program (OSAP) (external link) as part of the skilled migration visa application.

Skilled workers seeking to connect with WA employers can do so by registering for the Skilled Migrant Employment Register (external link). If an employer wishes to contact you through the register, Migration WA will provide them with your contact details.

Automotive electricians moving to WA from another state or territory within Australia

If you’re moving to WA permanently, you can apply for mutual recognition (external link) or a WA certificate. Mutual recognition will entitle you to trade in another state once you’ve informed the second state’s licensing authority.

If you’re moving to WA temporarily, you’ll need to follow a different process. If you hold a certification covered by the Mutual Recognition Act 1992 (Cth), you’re eligible for automatic deemed registration (ADR) in WA if your home state’s licencing is a participant of the Act.

How much can I earn as an automotive electrician in Australia?

$75,436

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics Employee Earnings (May 2021 release), automotive electricians earn an estimated $75,436 per year.

What kind of work could I have as an automotive electrician in WA?

Some work WA automotive electricians can expect includes:

  • Installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical wiring and electronic components in motor vehicles

  • Dismantling and removing electrical components

  • Adjusting engine control systems

  • Repairing and replacing faulty ignitions and wiring.

Automotive electricians need to undertake a 4-year apprenticeship while completing a Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology.

If you’re considering applying for apprenticeships and traineeships, you could qualify for reduced tuition fees under the State Government’s Lower Fees, Local Skills initiative.

For more information, visit the Jobs & Skills WA website.

How to become an automotive electrician in WA

Training and qualifications

  • 4-year apprenticeship

  • Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology (AUR30320)

Ready to look for your next automotive electrician role in WA?

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