For a bricklayer , the state-sponsored 491 usually has more chance of invitation than the family-sponsored 491 , unless you already have an eligible relative living in a regional area and strong points. Family sponsorship gives the same 15 points boost, but it is much more niche and the invitation pool is smaller, so state nomination is often the more realistic route for trades like bricklaying.

What matters most

  • Family-sponsored 491 works only if you have an eligible sponsor in a regional area, and it is a very limited stream with tiny annual numbers.
  • State-sponsored 491 depends on the state’s occupation list and demand, but for bricklayers some states have been actively listing trade occupations, which can improve your odds.
  • Both pathways still need a valid skills assessment, points test, and invitation before you can apply.

For bricklayer specifically

Bricklayer is a trade occupation, and trades are often more likely to be picked up by states when there are shortages, especially in regional areas. Family sponsorship can still be a strong backup if you have a qualifying relative in regional Australia, but the quota is much tighter and invitation rounds can be very limited.

Practical ranking

Pathway| Chance of invitation| Why
---|---|---
State-sponsored 491| Higher in many cases| States may actively invite trades based on shortages and occupation lists 9
Family-sponsored 491| Lower unless you have the right sponsor| Requires an eligible regional relative and has very limited invitations 6712

Best move

If you are a bricklayer and you do not already have an eligible regional relative, state nomination is usually the better bet. If you do have one, family sponsorship can be powerful because it gives the same 15 points, but it is still less predictable than state nomination for most applicants.

tl;dr

For most bricklayers, state-sponsored 491 has a better chance than family- sponsored 491. Family sponsorship becomes attractive only when you already have a qualifying regional relative and your points are otherwise competitive.