Motor mechanics in Western Australia

Motor mechanics are vital in keeping West Australians (WA) on the move.

WA is home to one of the world’s most extensive road networks. From Perth to the outback, WA roads offer a range of challenges for drivers and their vehicles.

Light and heavy road vehicles must tackle WA’s varied weather conditions, sealed and unsealed roads, and its wildlife.

If you’re a skilled mechanic looking to relocate, WA is the perfect place to look for your next opportunity.

If you’re already qualified and ready to make the move to WA, why not look for your next opportunity on Seek?

Motor mechanic licences in WA

To work as a motor mechanic in WA, you’ll need 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’ll need to work under the supervision of a mechanic who does.

To apply for a certificate, ensure you’ve completed the necessary training and qualifications to support your application. You’ll also need a National Police Check (external link) as part of your application.

Find out more about the certificate and how to register on 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

Motor mechanics moving to WA from overseas

You must hold 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’re currently working as a mechanic and are thinking of applying for your next role in WA, you’ll need to complete a Trades Recognition Australia assessment (TRA) (external link).

This 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 temporary licence.

Generally, motor mechanic qualifications gained in New Zealand are considered equivalent to the relevant Australian qualification. Find out more information about recognising overseas qualifications through the Migration WA website.

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.

Motor mechanics moving to WA from another state or territory within Australia

You’ll need to apply for mutual recognition through the DMIRS website or apply for a WA certificate. Mutual recognition will entitle you to trade in another state once you’ve informed the second state’s licensing authority.

Motor mechanics from another state or territory working in WA temporarily are eligible for automatic deemed registration (ADR) in Western Australia (WA). To be eligible, you must hold an equivalent certification in an Australian state or territory covered by the Mutual Recognition Act 1992 (Cth).

How much can I earn as a motor mechanic in Australia?

$66,014

According to the Bureau of Statistics Employee Earnings (May 2021 release), motor mechanics earn an estimate $66,014 per year.

What kind of work could I have as a motor mechanic in WA?

Your duties will depend on the area in which you specialise in.

As a general light vehicle motor mechanic, the work you can expect includes:

  • Repairing and replacing defective parts of motor vehicles

  • Performing scheduled maintenance services such as engine tune-ups and oil changes

  • Repairing or dismantling engines, steering mechanisms, and transmissions

  • Fixing, maintaining, and diagnosing engine faults and restoring vehicle components

  • Testing and repairing motor vehicle electrical lighting systems.

How to become a motor mechanic in WA

To become a qualified motor mechanic, you’ll need to complete a 4-year automotive technician apprenticeship.

There are 23 different classes of motor vehicle repair work in WA. Each of these requires other qualifications including:

  • Body building

  • Painting

  • Locksmith

  • Tyre fitting

  • Underbody

The range of work means you can find a specific area in vehicle repairs that interests you. Visit the DMIRS website to learn more about the different vehicle repair classes in WA.

A Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology or Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology will provide you with the qualifications to service cars.

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. Visit the Jobs & Skills WA website for more information.

Training and qualifications

  • 4 year-long apprenticeship, or

  • Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology (AUR306126 or equivalent); or

  • Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology (AUR31120 or equivalent)

Ready to look for your next motor mechanic role in WA?

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