Understanding Australia’s Skilled Migration Occupation List

If you’re planning to work, study, or migrate to Australia, understanding the Skilled Migration Occupation List Australia uses is essential. This list plays a major role in deciding who can apply for skilled visas—and it’s reviewed regularly to reflect the country’s changing workforce needs.

This guide explains the list in plain English—what it is, who updates it, and how it can impact your migration plans.

What is the Skilled Migration Occupation List Australia Uses?

Australia’s skilled migration program is designed to attract people with specific qualifications and work experience. To manage this, the government maintains a list of in-demand occupations.

These are grouped into several lists:

• MLTSSL – Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List
• STSOL – Short-term Skilled Occupation List
• ROL – Regional Occupation List

If your occupation is on one of these, it may open doors to skilled visas like the 189, 190, 491, 482, and more

Why the Occupation List Matters

Being listed on the Skilled Migration Occupation List Australia uses can make you eligible for:

• Employer-sponsored visas (e.g. TSS 482)
• Points-tested visas (e.g. Skilled Independent 189 or State Nominated 190)
• Regional sponsorship (e.g. 491)
• Pathways from student to permanent resident

If your occupation is not listed, your options may be limited or require alternate routes like job offers, state nomination, or further qualifications.

Who Decides What’s on the List?

The list is shaped by real data and expert input. It’s developed and updated by the Australian Government through bodies like the National Skills Commission or equivalent departments.

They look at:

• Skills shortages across industries
• Labour market trends and job forecasts
• Feedback from employers, unions, state governments, and migration experts

How and When the List is Reviewed

The Skilled Migration Occupation List Australia reviews generally happen once a year, though sometimes more often if there’s a critical need.

The review process includes:

• A public consultation phase
• Input from industry and government partners
• Review of economic and employment data
• Updates published with implementation timelines

For example, recent updates have highlighted shortages in:

• Healthcare (nurses, carers, allied health)
• Construction (tradies, engineers, surveyors)
• Technology (cybersecurity, software development)

How to Check If Your Occupation is on the List

To see if your occupation is eligible, here’s what you can do:

1. Visit the Department of Home Affairs website
2. Use the SkillSelect tool
3. Consult with a registered migration agent
4. Subscribe to alerts or check migration news updates regularly

You can also view the Skilled Migration Occupation List Australia currently uses directly from their official portal.

What If Your Occupation Isn’t Listed?

You still have options:

• Consider state-nominated visas, where each state/territory maintains its own list
• Explore regional migration, which often includes broader eligibility
• Retrain or upskill in a high-demand field
• Seek advice from a migration agent for tailored strategies

The List Reflects More Than Just Jobs

The occupation list is a reflection of Australia’s economic priorities and labour needs. It’s also a strategic way to future-proof the workforce by inviting people with skills that will help the country grow.

Whether you’re in healthcare, education, IT, or trades—being on the list means Australia sees your skills as valuable to the community.

The Skilled Migration Occupation List Australia uses is more than a formality—it’s your roadmap to skilled migration success.

Plan ahead. Stay informed. Know your options.
And always use reliable sources or talk to a professional before making big decisions.

Need help understanding your options?

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