Major Changes for International Students Studying Trades in South Australia - from July 2026

South Australia - Major Trade Regulation Change for International Students in Trades

International Students Graduates will no longer be trade certified in SA

Significant changes are coming for international students in South Australia.

From July 1, 2026, the South Australian Skills Commission will no longer recognise classroom-based courses (the only ones international students can take) as eligible for industry-recognised Occupational Certificates.

Who Is Affected?

Current students: You can continue and complete your course if you are enrolled before June 30, 2026. Your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) must be issued on or before June 30, 2026.
New students (starting July 1): You will not be eligible to study classroom-based trade courses linked to Occupational Certificates in SA.

What Courses are Affected?

carpentry
plumbing
electrician courses
car mechanics
painting & decorating
bricklaying
welding
tiling

Courses not affected:

aged care
commercial cookery
disability care
IT
hospitality management
early childhood education teaching
business

What Is the New Study Option?

Colleges will still be allowed to deliver their courses, but without industry accrediation as an outcome, most will stop. This includes TAFE SA delivering these courses for international students.

Under the new rules, the only pathway to gaining a recognised trade qualification will be through a work-based apprenticeship program. However, apprenticeships are currently only available to Australian citizens and permanent residents. 500 Visa-Holders do not carry the full work rights required for apprenticeship programs.

Thus, there is no pathway for international students in South Australia.

Why Are These Changes Happening?

These reforms have been introduced to address concerns about the quality and integrity of training outcomes within the trade education sector. Issues involving some colleges, students, and employers have led to stricter regulations. Unfortunately, these changes impact many reputable providers and genuine students.

What Is Your Alternative?

At this stage, the only option for international students is to study a trade courses in other Australian state, where different regulations still allow classroom-based training pathways.