Australia’s new Core Skills Occupation List to streamline skilled migration

Australia’s migration system is undergoing a significant overhaul with the introduction of the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), a move aimed at simplifying the temporary skilled visa program and responding more effectively to the country’s evolving labour market needs.

The new list, which includes 456 occupations, is set to take effect on 7 December 2024, alongside the launch of the new Skills in Demand visa.

BDO Migration Services Principal Lawyer Rebecca Thomson changes said the CSOL will make it easier for Australian employers to hire skilled workers.

“This updated framework consolidates the occupation lists and streamlines the process for businesses to access talent in critical fields,” she said.

“One of the key changes involves the replacement of the Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) visa with the Skills in Demand visa, which will use the CSOL as its foundation.

“The new visa aims to simplify the hiring process for employers by offering more flexibility and better alignment with current skill shortages.”

The CSOL will also play a central role in the Direct Entry stream of the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa, providing a pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers in high-demand occupations.

“These changes are a significant step towards modernising Australia’s skilled migration system,” Rebecca said.

“By aligning the migration program more closely with the needs of the Australian economy, the government is looking to ensure that businesses can access the skilled workers they need to remain competitive globally.”

The reforms are part of a broader effort to future-proof Australia’s workforce and strengthen its position in an increasingly interconnected global economy.

Tate Papworth
Manager, Media
E: tate.papworth@bdo.com.au
Ph: 0433 411 189