Migration Alert: new updates to the Core Skills Occupation List and Skills in Demand visa

On December 3, 2024, the Australian Government announced the introduction of the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), which will play a key role in shaping the country’s temporary skilled migration program. 

The CSOL aims to replace the previous complex and outdated occupation lists, streamlining the process for businesses and skilled workers alike. This new list, developed in consultation with Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) and informed by extensive labour market analysis, provides a consolidated selection of 456 occupations that will benefit from temporary skilled migration opportunities. 

Key changes 

• Core Skills Stream: The CSOL will apply to the Core Skills stream of the upcoming Skills in Demand visa. This visa, which replaces the Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) visa, will be available from December 7, 2024. 
• Employer Nomination Scheme: The CSOL will also be relevant for the Direct Entry stream of the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186), facilitating permanent residency pathways for eligible skilled workers. 

This move reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring Australia’s immigration system is aligned with current labour market needs, supporting businesses in finding the skilled talent they require to thrive. 

More updates to come 

The Skills in Demand visa, which will launch alongside the CSOL on December 7, 2024, is expected to provide a more flexible and efficient pathway for skilled migrants, particularly those in high-demand occupations. Further details on other upcoming reforms, including the National Innovation visa and the Skills in Demand visa, will be released shortly. 

Overview of changes to CSOL

The newly released CSOL includes many significant changes. We encourage all employers and skilled workers to review the new Core Skills Occupation List as it may impact your visa options and future planning. Here is a summary of some of the key changes: 

Removed from the list 

• Agricultural and Livestock Farmers: Roles such as cotton grower, fruit or nut grower, and beef cattle farmer 
• Managers: Positions like public relations manager, welfare centre manager, and sports administrator 
• Creative and Performing Arts: Roles including dancer or choreographer, musician (instrumental), and film and video editor 
• Health and Welfare: Positions such as health information manager and nutritionist 
• ICT and Engineering: ICT trainer and telecommunications engineer. 

Added to the list 

• Regulatory and Compliance: New roles like regulatory affairs manager and cyber security engineer 
• Health and Science: Positions such as respiratory scientist and agricultural research scientist 
• ICT and Data: New roles include data analyst, data scientist, and various cyber security positions 
• Trades and Technicians: Roles like electroplater, metal casting trades worker, and fire protection equipment technician. 

Remains on the list 

• Management and Administration: Roles such as chief executive or managing director, sales and marketing manager, and finance manager 
• Engineering and ICT: Positions like civil engineer, mechanical engineer, and software engineer 
• Health and Education: Roles including general practitioner, registered nurse, and university lecturer.