The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has announced today that the much-anticipated Skills in Demand (SID) visa will officially commence this Saturday, 7 December 2024. This new visa category marks a significant shift in Australia’s approach to skilled migration, with a focus on addressing critical skill shortages to meet Australia’s workforce shortage demands.
In anticipation of the changes occurring this weekend, the DHA has finally introduced the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), which will replace the Skilled Occupation List (SOL). The CSOL is intended to provide a targeted approach to identifying occupations that are essential for Australia’s economy.
The new CSOL focuses on key sectors that are vital to Australia’s economic growth. The new list reflects industry input and current labour market trends.
The CSOL can be reviewed in detail on the Department of Home Affairs website: Core Skills Occupation List.
Below, we have highlighted the new occupations added to the CSOL that were not previously available on the SOL:
Several occupations now have their own occupation codes, whereas they were previously listed as specialisations under other occupations. These include:
These occupation codes align with the new Occupation Standard Classification for Australia (OSCA) that is being released on Friday, 6 December 2024. OSCA will be replacing the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO).
Employers now have access to a greater range of occupations under the program. However, those intending to sponsor candidates for roles that are no longer included must act quickly, as there are only a few days remaining to submit nominations and associated visa applications before the changes take place.
For visa applicants, the program provides a new pathway for skilled individuals with as little as one (1) year of work experience, opening doors previously unavailable under the TSS visa. This is particularly beneficial for graduates on a Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa who have been unable to accumulate the two (2) years of work experience previously required.
With the launch date fast approaching, now is the time to review the updated requirements and assess eligibility. Employers and prospective applicants are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the CSOL and seek professional advice to navigate the process effectively.
Watch this space for further updates and insights on how the SID visa evolves in practice after its implementation.
If you need assistance navigating these changes or require tailored immigration advice, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help with expert guidance every step of the way.
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