Skills List

As you will probably be aware, Australia is facing labour shortages and also one of the lowest unemployment rates in their history. Consequently, they are keen to encourage immigration of those who work in many highly skilled job areas.

Since 2005, Australia has increased its visa quota for highly skilled immigrants by 5,000, increasing the total number to 102,500, making it easier than ever for those with transferable skills to emigrate to the country. There is a high demand for skilled workers in most industries.

Australia Skilled Occupations List

In December the Department of Immigration and Citizenship introduced a Critical Skills List which encompassed the skills that were highly sought after in Australia. However the CSL was phased out from March 2010 to be replaced by the new Skilled Occupations List (SOL) which takes over on 1st July 2010. If your occupation is on the SOL you can expect to have your visa processed as a priority. Click here to view the Australian Skilled Occupations in Demand List.

If you have a proven work history and/or relevant qualification in one of these fields, you’ll be awarded a massive chunk of points towards your points pass mark – the amount varies according to job. But if your occupation is on the SOL, you are already at an advantage if you want to migrate to Australia.

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