On 3 December 2024, the Australian Government introduced the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) as part of its broader reform of the skilled migration program. This significant update replaces outdated and fragmented occupation lists with a single, consolidated framework designed to better meet Australia’s evolving labor market needs.

The CSOL includes 456 key occupations, spanning industries critical to Australia’s growth. Developed through comprehensive labor market analysis and extensive consultations with stakeholders by Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA), the CSOL aims to simplify pathways for skilled migration while addressing skill shortages across the country.

What’s Changing?

The CSOL will come into effect on 7 December 2024 and apply to:

• The Core Skills stream of the new Skills in Demand visa, replacing the Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) visa.

• The Direct Entry stream of the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa, providing a permanent migration option for skilled workers.

These changes reflect the Government’s commitment to making Australia’s migration system more flexible, responsive, and transparent, benefiting both employers and skilled migrants.

Key Occupations on the CSOL

The CSOL covers a wide range of industries, with some of the most in-demand roles including:

Health and Medical Services

• General Practitioners and Registered Nurses (specializing in Aged Care, Critical Care, and Mental Health)

• Medical Diagnostic Radiographers and Dentists

• Physiotherapists

Information Technology

• Software Engineers and Data Scientists

• Cybersecurity Specialists and ICT Business Analysts

• Network and Systems Administrators

Construction and Engineering

• Civil and Structural Engineers

• Construction Project Managers and Electricians

• Plumbers

Education

• Secondary School Teachers (Mathematics, Science, Special Education)

• Early Childhood Educators and University Lecturers

Agriculture and Agribusiness

• Agricultural Scientists and Veterinarians

• Agricultural Technicians and Livestock Farmers

Trades and Skilled Work

• Carpenters and Metal Fabricators

• Automotive Electricians and Chefs

What’s Next?

The CSOL is just the beginning of major reforms. On 7 December 2024, the Skills in Demand visa and National Innovation visa will be introduced. These updates promise to modernise and streamline the migration process, further enhancing Australia’s ability to attract global talent.

Stay tuned for more announcements about these visas and how they’ll integrate with the new CSOL framework.

Take the Next Step

Are you an employer seeking to address critical skill shortages? Or a skilled professional looking to contribute your talents to Australia? Now is the time to act.

Contact us today for expert advice and personalised guidance on how the new Core Skills Occupation List and upcoming visa reforms can help you achieve your migration goals.

Note: The information provided in this article is meant for general informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Although we strive to provide accurate and useful information, the nuances of Australian immigration law demand personalised advice from legal professionals. Given the dynamic nature of migration regulations, it is essential to consult with experienced immigration experts for up-to-date insights tailored to your individual circumstances. We strongly advise seeking professional guidance to navigate the complexities of Australian immigration law effectively and to achieve the most favorable outcomes for your immigration journey.