November 05 2021 0Comment
Working in Australia as an Overseas Scaffolder - Stronghold

Working In Australia as an Overseas Scaffolder

Scorching summers, beautiful beaches, crocodiles, thongs, boomerangs, cold frothy beers, or Budgie Smugglers are just some of the terms that come to mind when you think of Australia. I’m not sure that the term ‘scaffolding’ would really pop up though? Unless, of course, you are an overseas scaffolder looking to work in Australia!

Overseas Scaffolders Work Australia - Stronghold Hire

Overseas Scaffolders Working in Australia

Over the last 10 years at Stronghold Hire, we have had scaffolders working from Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, the UK, Ireland, France, Estonia, Sweden, Germany, South Africa, Tonga, Samoa, Canada, and the USA! If you are a scaffolder looking for a bit of fun and adventure and would enjoy a swim at the beach after a hard day’s work, then Australia may be the place for you!

FAQ for Overseas Scaffolders

We have compiled some FAQs that travelling scaffolders have about Australia to give you a leg up if you’re planning on coming over.

  1. Do I require a Visa to work in Australia?

Yes, you do. Different countries have different visa requirements but most of them are working holiday visas with an age limit of 35 years old. You can usually find this information out easily online, if your circumstances are a little unique then contact your local immigration agent for advice.

  1. Is there a lot of work for scaffolders?

Well, as a Sydney based scaffolding company, we can only speak for how we see it locally. Sydney is currently experiencing a major shortage of skilled and qualified labour across the construction, hospitality, agricultural and medical sectors. As for scaffolding, there is an abundance of work in Sydney if you are reliable and have the right attitude.

  1. What hours does the average scaffolder work?

Full-time scaffolders work 38 to 60 hours a week depending on the project and if you wish to work overtime. Your day normally starts at 7 am and finishes at 3:30 pm. Here at Stronghold Hire we try to encourage a ‘job and knock’ culture, this means our guys can sometimes be seen at 1pm ripping up the waves on Bondi Beach with a full day’s pay!

  1. What are the pay rates in Sydney for scaffolders?

Depending on who you work for and what qualifications and experience you have, the normal hourly rates can vary from around AUD $34 per hour to AUD $48 per hour. These rates may also have additional allowances such as travel, productivity, confined space, etc.

  1. Will my overseas scaffold licence be accepted in Australia?

No, you will require a basic scaffolders licence to work as a scaffolder in Australia. These can be obtained easily with several training facilities in Sydney. It is advisable to book a course online well in advance of your arrival date, that way, you will be ready for work as soon as possible.

  1. Do I require any other qualifications?

Yes, as a minimum you will require a construction certificate, often called a white card. This is a simple short course that can now be done online for a small fee.

  1. Should I bring my scaffold tool belt, harness, etc to Australia?

Well, this depends on a couple of things. Firstly, the scaffolding systems used in Sydney is 99% modular (Kwikstage, Ringlock or Cuplok), so if you only use tube and fitting in your country then your scaffolding tools may not be suitable here. The fittings are a different nut size to the UK also. Secondly, harnesses are only required for certain types of jobs or industrial work and are often supplied by your employer. Instead, we use advanced guardrail systems or methodologies such as the ‘1m rule’. Boots, hard hats, etc can be purchased locally at reasonable prices. Most scaffolders just bring an empty belt with their tape, level and purchase the extra tools required when they arrive (24mm Ratchet/key, hammer, steel fixers nips).

  1. Will my overseas drivers licence be accepted in Australia?

We are of the impression that any full international drivers licence is accepted for a limited period of time. Alternatively, the public transport system is very good in Sydney.

Jobs for Overseas Scaffolders in Sydney

That should answer most of your questions if you are considering working as a scaffolder in Australia. Make sure you remember the name STRONGHOLD HIRE when you arrive in Australia and looking for work. If you are currently looking for work as a scaffolder in Sydney, NSW you can apply for work here (please do not apply if you are not currently located in Sydney).

stronghold-hire

We have over 20 years combined experience in the scaffolding and labour hire industry with clients ranging from government bodies and large construction companies through to smaller subcontractors such as painters, plumbers, lift installers, electricians, roof tilers and renderers. We are one of the leading providers of scaffolding labour hire throughout the Sydney area and our experienced and qualified scaffolders can ensure your projects are erected and dismantled on time and on budget.

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