The Department of Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business (the Department) is responsible for periodically reviewing and suggesting changes to the skilled migration occupation lists to meet genuine skill shortages across Australia. Accordingly, the Department holds consultation with various stakeholders including industry, employers, unions and other individuals to gather insights for the occupations required to meet the labor market needs in the country.
Most recently, the Department initiated the review of the skilled migration occupation lists in 04 September 2019 and commenced consultation with various stakeholders. Based on the responses received, the Department published a Traffic Light Bulletin on 13 December 2019 outlining the proposed changes to flagged 38 occupations for a change in status on one of the lists. As per the review timeline of the Department, an update to the skilled migration occupation lists was expected to be announced in March 2020. However, “due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the announcement on updates to the skilled migration occupation lists has been delayed.”
According to the Bulletin, 11 occupations were flagged for removal from the Short Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL), 17 occupations were flagged for movement between lists, 4 occupations were flagged for addition to the STSOL, and 6 occupations were recommended for a salary caveat. Currently, these are only proposals, pending formal amendments, and thus, have no implications on the current migration pathway.
The occupations that have been proposed to be added the STSOL are:
- Corporate Treasurer (ANZSCO 221212),
- Aged or Disabled Carer (ANZSCO 423111),
- Nursing Support Worker (ANZSCO 423312), and
- Personal Care Assistant (ANZSCO 423313).
Further, it is more important to note that 11 occupations that are flagged for removal from the STSOL include Careers Counselor, Vehicle Trimmer, Business Machine Mechanic, Animal Attendants and Trainers, Gardener, Hairdresser, Wood Machinist, Massage Therapist, Community Worker, Diving Instructor, and Gymnastics Coach or Instructor. Once formally accepted, these occupations would not be available for skilled migration to Australia.
If you are looking to migrate to Australia, Get In Touch with us or call us on (02) 4626 100 to speak to one of our Registered Migration Agents in Sydney to discuss your visa options and a complete pathway for your residency.
