To apply for the program you must first register through the TRA Online Portal via the TRA website www.tradesrecognitionaustralia.gov.au.
A TRA reference number and username will be generated, and you will be asked to create a password. You will need your username and password to sign into your online account.
Your application is complete when you have uploaded all documents required for the step as outlined in Section 2, made the required payment and selected submit on the application page in the TRA Online Portal. Your application is not sent to TRA for processing until all these actions are completed.
Please read the instructions in the TRA Online Portal carefully to make sure you have met all requirements before completing your application.
Diagram 1 below provides an overview of the online application process.

1.5.1 Document requirements
All applications submitted to TRA must be ‘decision ready’. ‘Decision ready’ means all mandatory fields in the application pages are completed, all required documents are uploaded in the specified format and the relevant application fee is paid.
Documentation provided as part of your application or as requested by TRA must be uploaded through the TRA Online Portal. Documents must:
- be in Portable Document Format (PDF)
- not use file sharing platforms (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox)
- not be locked or password protected.