Important: This page is an independent reference summary. Verify classification decisions against the official ABS source before using them for tax, licensing, immigration or compliance purposes.

Role overview

Bricklayers (ANZSCO 331111) are skilled tradespeople who construct and repair walls, partitions, arches, and other structural elements using bricks, concrete blocks, and similar masonry materials. In Australia, these professionals work across residential, commercial, and industrial construction projects, interpreting architectural plans and applying technical knowledge of bonding patterns, mortar mixes, and structural principles. The occupation includes specialisations such as brick pavers who create decorative pathways and outdoor surfaces, and refractory bricklayers who install heat-resistant materials in industrial settings like furnaces and kilns.

This ANZSCO classification is maintained as a legacy standard primarily used for statistical purposes, skilled migration assessments, and workforce planning. While the classification system provides a framework for understanding occupation requirements, actual job roles may evolve with construction techniques and materials innovation beyond the classification's original scope.

Key tasks in practice

Based on the occupational title and classification context, bricklayers typically perform these core functions:

  • Reading and interpreting construction plans and specifications to determine layout requirements
  • Measuring and marking guidelines on foundations and reference points using rules, levels, and chalk lines
  • Mixing mortar and applying it to foundations and bricks using trowels
  • Laying bricks and blocks in predetermined patterns, checking alignment with levels and plumb bobs
  • Cutting and shaping bricks using power tools, hammers, and chisels to fit around obstacles
  • Constructing corners and building leads to establish reference points for wall construction
  • Installing weep holes and ventilation components as required by building standards
  • Cleaning finished surfaces with water, brushes, and chemicals to remove excess mortar

Skill level explanation

ANZSCO assigns Bricklayers to Skill Level 3, which indicates occupations that typically require:

  • An AQF Certificate III qualification (including 2 years of on-the-job training)
  • Or at least 3 years of relevant experience which may substitute for formal qualifications

In practical terms, this skill level reflects that bricklaying requires substantial vocational education and training to develop the technical knowledge of materials, structural principles, and building codes. The occupation demands precision, physical stamina, and the ability to work from technical drawings. Skill Level 3 positions are considered skilled occupations for migration purposes, though specific visa requirements may impose additional criteria beyond the ANZSCO classification.

Industry context

Bricklayers primarily work within the construction sector, with ANZSCO cross-referencing these key industries:

  • Residential Building Construction (ANZSIC 2021)
  • Non-Residential Building Construction (ANZSIC 2022)
  • Construction Services (ANZSIC 3291)

Employment settings range from large construction firms working on major projects to smaller specialised operations focusing on residential work or restoration projects. Bricklayers may work as employees, subcontractors, or self-employed tradespeople. The demand for bricklaying services correlates with construction activity levels, which can fluctuate with economic conditions, population growth, and government infrastructure spending.

While ANZSCO provides this industry context for classification purposes, actual employment patterns may extend beyond these categories to include maintenance roles in facility management, heritage restoration work, or specialised industrial applications not fully captured by the classification system.