Australian Immigration Daily News

The Department of Jobs and Small Business regularly reviews the skilled migration occupation lists to ensure they are responsive to Australia’s labour market needs. These lists underpin a range of employer-sponsored, points-tested and state-nominated visa programs. The review process involves seven stages including:

1.Commencing the review process
2.Undertaking initial labour market analysis and meet with stakeholders
3.Commencing stakeholder submission period process
4.Concluding stakeholder submission period process
5.Analysing themes and data from consultation
6.Providing recommendations to the government
7.Announcing decision

The first six stages of the process are now complete therefore the announcement of the 2018/19 Skilled Occupation Lists is imminent. Whilst certain occupations were flagged for removal, it is possible for unflagged occupations to be impacted by the review process.

The review process involves careful consideration of all information and evidence provided in submissions when developing advice to Government on the composition of the skilled migration occupation lists. Where an individual or organisation has indicated it would like the submission to be made publically available, it will be published on the website. Whilst the review is conducted by the Department of Jobs and Small Businesses, the Immigration Minister makes the final determination on the skilled migration occupation lists. The Department of Jobs and Small Business assists with labour market analysis and stakeholder advice to Government to inform the decision-making process.

The stakeholder consultation process includes submissions from stakeholders to supplement the Department’s labour market data and analysis as well as surveys completed by employers and individuals. The submission process aims to capture information on the types of skills employers need to meet their skilled workforce needs, including how employers are planning to manage their future skilled workforce needs. Submissions are one of the many factors considered for the Skilled Occupation update process. As indicated on their website, the Department of Jobs and Small Businesses is open to receiving all types of available supporting evidence from stakeholders therefore small businesses as well as individuals are encouraged to participate in the process to ensure their occupation remains on the relevant list.

The review process impacts all three occupation lists. These are STOL, MLTSSL and ROL.

Occupations listed in the short-term stream (STSOL) is for employers to source temporary overseas skilled workers in occupations included on the STSOL for two years, with a possible extension of an additional two years, and with no eligibility to apply for permanent residence.

The medium-term stream (MLTSSL) is for employers to source highly skilled overseas workers to fill critical skills in occupations included on the MLTSSL for up to four years, with eligibility to apply for permanent residence after three years.

The Regional Occupation List (ROL) is for highly skilled overseas workers employed in designated regional areas and operates alongside the current STSOL and MLTSSL. It provides for a four-year visa with a permanent residency pathway.

As a result of the review, there are four potential scenarios applicable to each occupation:

1.Occupation removed entirely from STSOL/MLTSSL or ROL
2.Occupation added to STSOL/MLTSSL or ROL
3.Occupation is moved between STSOL/MLTSSL or ROL
4.Occupation remains untouched

Whilst the final lists are yet to be published, it is anticipated that occupations including Manufacturer, Film and Video Editor, Stage Manager, Video Producer, Cabler, Librarian Technician and Residential Care Officer are likely to be removed from the lists.

Migration Alliance will publish the new skilled occupation lists as soon as they are released.

The Department of Jobs and Small Business encourages engagement at anytime in relation to specific industry or occupation.  Enquiries can be directed to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and further information can be found: https://www.jobs.gov.au/skilled-migration-occupation-lists-frequently-asked-questions

For further help please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.