The Australian Skilled Occupation List 2024-25 is an important resource for international students aspiring to study and work in Australia. It outlines the professions in high demand, offering a route for students aiming to secure employment and permanent residency in the country. In this blog, we will explore what the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) is, the different types of occupation lists, and how they impact international students. You will also discover how to check if your profession is included, visa options linked to the SOL, and tips on maximising your chances of being featured on this list. Whether you are targeting a specific state like Western Australia or South Australia or looking for advice on building your career prospects, this guide covers everything you need to know about exploring the Skilled Occupation List as an international student.
This Blog Includes:
- What is the Australia Skilled Occupation List
- Types of Australia Skilled Occupation List
- Visa Types and Corresponding Skilled Occupation List
- 1. Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186)
- 2. Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 494)
- 3. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
- 4. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
- 5. Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482)
- 6. Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
- 7. Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
- Skilled Occupation List for Australia PR
- How the Australia Skilled Occupation List Impacts International Students
- State and Territory-Specific Skilled Occupation Lists
- How to Check if Your Occupation is on the Skilled Occupation List Australia
- What Are the Chances for International Students to Secure a Job from the Australia Skilled Occupation List?
- Tips for International Students to Maximise Their Chances of Being Included in Australia Skilled Occupation List
- Conclusion
- FAQs
What is the Australia Skilled Occupation List
The Australia Skilled Occupation List (SOL) is a list of jobs that are in high demand across the country. Australia uses this list to fill skill gaps by welcoming skilled workers, including international students, into its workforce.
If you are planning to study in Australia and want to work afterwards, the SOL can help you determine which careers will most likely get you a work visa or even permanent residency. The list is updated regularly based on the country’s needs, giving the students an idea of which industries or professionals offer the best job opportunities.
By choosing a course that helps you with your occupation on the SOL, you can increase your chances of landing a job in Australia after graduation. The SOL covers a wide range of fields, from engineering and IT to healthcare and education, making it easier for students to align their studies with the country’s job market. Understanding this list is like having a roadmap to plan your future career in Australia!
Types of Australia Skilled Occupation List
The type of Australia Skilled Occupation List is designed to help students for matching different visa programs and job markets. It helps international students to find the best path to work and live in Australia.
There are three main types of Australia Skilled Occupation List which are categorised as follows:
1. Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL): The Medium and Long Term Strategic List (MTSSL) list includes occupations in demand for the long term linked to visas that can lead to permanent residency. If your career goal is to stay in Australia permanently, picking a course in one of these fields can be a smart move.
2. Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL): Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) covers jobs Australia needs to fill but may not be in demand for as long. It’s usually tied to temporary work visas, but it can still offer great opportunities for gaining experience and building connections in the country.
3. Regional Occupation List (ROL): The regional Occupation List (ROL) is for jobs that are in demand specifically in regional areas of Australia. If you are open to studying or working in a less crowded, more scenic part of the country, this list could be your way in. Regional visas often come with benefits like additional points toward permanent residency.
Also Read: Permanent Residency Courses in Australia
Visa Types and Corresponding Skilled Occupation List
When it comes to the Skilled Occupation List, it is important to understand that choosing the right visa plays an important role while understanding SOL. Different visas are linked to specific lists and knowing about these visas can help your career path more effectively:
1. Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186)
Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa lets skilled workers stay in Australia permanently if they are nominated by their employer. It is a great option if you have a job offer from an Australian employer and want to make Australia your permanent home.
2. Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 494)
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa allows skilled workers nominated by regional employers to live, work, and study in regional Australia for up to five years. It’s perfect if you’re open to living in regional areas and want to gain experience in these communities.
3. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Skilled Independent Visa is for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer but have the skills and qualifications needed in Australia. It is a points-tested visa, meaning you’ll need to score enough points based on your skills, work experience, and other factors to qualify for permanent residency.
4. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
Skilled Nominated Visa allows skilled workers who are nominated by a state or territory to live and work in Australia as permanent residents. It’s also a points-tested visa, and being nominated by a state or territory can help boost your chances.
5. Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482)
Temporary Skill Shortage temporary visa lets employers sponsor skilled workers to fill positions they can’t find Australians to fill. It’s a good option if you have a job offer and need to start working in Australia right away.
6. Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
Ideal for international students who have recently graduated with skills in demand in Australia. A Temporary Graduate Visa allows you to live and work in Australia temporarily to gain relevant work experience.
7. Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
Skilled Work Regional Visa lets you live and work in regional Australia if you are nominated by a state or territory government. It’s designed for those who are willing to work in regional areas and can lead to permanent residency.
Skilled Occupation List for Australia PR
The Skilled Occupation List for Australia PR (Permanent Residency) is important for international students who want to stay and work in Australia long-term.
This list includes professions that are in high demand and can lead to permanent residency if you meet the necessary qualifications and visa requirements.
Occupation | ANZSCO Code | Skill List | Visa Pathways | Assessing Authority |
Accommodation and Hospitality Managers | 141999 | STSOL | 190, 407, 491 (S/T), TSS (S), 494 | VETASSESS |
Accountant (General) | 221111 | MLTSSL | 186, 189 (PT), 190, 407, 485 (GW), 491 (F), 491 (S/T), TSS (M), 494 | CAANZ/CPAA/IPA |
Actuary | 224111 | MLTSSL | 186, 189 (PT), 190, 407, 485 (GW),491 (F), 491 (S/T), TSS (M), 494 | VETASSESS |
Agricultural Consultant | 234111 | MLTSSL | 186, 189 (PT), 190, 407, 485 (GW), 491 (F), 491 (S/T), TSS (M), 494 | VETASSESS |
Biochemist | 234513 | MLTSSL | 186, 407, TSS (M), 494 | VETASSESS |
Biomedical Engineer | 233913 | MLTSSL | 186, 189 (PT), 190, 407, 485 (GW), 491 (F), 491 (S/T), TSS (M), 494 | Engineers Australia |
Chef | 351311 | STSOL | 190, 407, 491 (S/T), TSS (S), 494 | TRA |
Civil Engineer | 233211 | MLTSSL | 186, 189 (PT), 190, 407, 485 (GW), 491 (F), 491 (S/T), TSS (M), 494 | Engineers Australia |
Dental Specialist | 252311 | MLTSSL | 186, 189 (PT), 190, 407, 485 (GW), 491 (F), 491 (S/T), TSS (M), 494 | ADC |
Early Childhood (Pre-Primary School) Teacher | 241111 | MLTSSL | 186, 189 (PT), 190, 407, 485 (GW), 491 (F), 491 (S/T), TSS (M), 494 | AITSL |
Electrical Engineer | 233311 | MLTSSL | 186, 189 (PT), 190, 407, 485 (GW), 491 (F), 491 (S/T), TSS (M), 494 | Engineers Australia |
Mechanical Engineer | 233512 | MLTSSL | 186, 189 (PT), 190, 407, 485 (GW), 491 (F), 491 (S/T), TSS (M), 494 | Engineers Australia |
Nurse (Registered) | 254499 | MLTSSL | 186, 189 (PT), 190, 407, 485 (GW), 491 (F), 491 (S/T), TSS (M), 494 | ANMAC |
Software Engineer | 261313 | MLTSSL | 186, 189 (PT), 190, 407, 485 (GW), 491 (F), 491 (S/T), TSS (M), 494 | ACS |
Teacher (Secondary School) | 241411 | MLTSSL | 186, 189 (PT), 190, 407, 485 (GW), 491 (F), 491 (S/T), TSS (M), 494 | AITSL |
Veterinarian | 234711 | MLTSSL | 186, 189 (PT), 190, 407, 485 (GW), 491 (F), 491 (S/T), TSS (M), 494 | AVBC |
Also Read: How to get PR in Australia? A Guide for Indian Students
How the Australia Skilled Occupation List Impacts International Students
The Australia Skilled Occupation List (SOL) is a game-changer for international students who want to live and work in Australia after their studies. It highlights the jobs that are in demand across the country, making it easier for students to plan their careers. By choosing a course that leads to a profession on the list, like nursing, engineering, or IT, you’ll boost your chances of getting a work visa and even permanent residency.
If your occupation is on the SOL, you will have access to visa options like Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa) or Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa), which could help you stay in Australia long-term. Additionally, each state has its occupation list, so if you’re open to living in regional areas, you could find even more opportunities.
In short, knowing what’s on the Australia Skilled Occupation List can help you make smarter decisions about your studies and future in Australia.
State and Territory-Specific Skilled Occupation Lists
State and territory-specific skilled occupation lists in Australia offer great opportunities for international students looking to live and work in the country. These lists are structured according to each region’s specific job demands, giving students a better chance to secure a visa by prioritizing certain occupations. If you’re studying in Australia or planning to, aligning your career with these in-demand professions can boost your chances of staying and working in Australia after graduation.
Western Australia Skilled Occupation List (WASMOL)
Western Australia’s Skilled Migration Occupation List (WASMOL) is built to address the state’s critical skill shortages. It’s split into two main streams: the Graduate Occupation List (GOL) and the General Occupation List (SOL). International students who have studied in WA or are open to living in regional areas of the state are given a higher preference for jobs.
Some of the popular Occupations in WASMOL are:
Occupation | ANZSCO Code | Assessing Authority |
Civil Engineer | 233211 | Engineers Australia |
Registered Nurse (254499) | 254499 | ANMAC |
Secondary School Teacher | 241411 | AITSL |
ICT Business Analyst | 261111 | ACS |
South Australia Skilled Occupation List
South Australia’s Skilled Occupation List is focused on meeting industry needs, particularly in fields like health, education, and engineering. The state gives priority to international students who graduate from local institutions, making it easier for them to stay, work, and thrive in the region after completing their studies.
Some of the popular Occupations in South Australia SOL are:
Occupation | ANZSCO Code | Assessing Authority |
Social Worker | 272511 | AASW |
Mechanical Engineer | 233512 | Engineers Australia |
Architect | 232111 | AACA |
Psychologist | 272311 | APAC |
How to Check if Your Occupation is on the Skilled Occupation List Australia
For international students checking if your occupation is on the Australia Skilled Occupation List (SOL) is simple. The list is available online, and you can easily search for your profession to see if it’s in demand. You can visit the official Department of Home Affairs website, where you will find detailed information about each occupation, including job codes and eligibility for various visas. It’s important to keep an eye on the list because it gets updated regularly based on Australia’s workforce needs.
What Are the Chances for International Students to Secure a Job from the Australia Skilled Occupation List?
International students have a good chance of securing a job if their occupation is on the Australia Skilled Occupation List. Choosing a course that aligns with in-demand jobs, such as healthcare, IT, or engineering, significantly boosts your chances.
Employers in Australia prioritise hiring graduates in occupations listed on the SOL, and many of these roles also lead to post-study work visas and permanent residency. So, if you plan smartly, your chances of staying and working in Australia are quite high!
Tips for International Students to Maximise Their Chances of Being Included in Australia Skilled Occupation List
Some practical tips for international students to boost their chances of being included in the Australia Skilled Occupation List (SOL) are as follows:
- Pick a course that aligns with occupations currently on the SOL. Research the list and select a program that leads to a profession in high demand, like engineering, IT, or healthcare.
- Consider studying in regional areas of Australia. Many regional lists have different in-demand occupations, and living in these areas can increase your chances of obtaining a visa and eventually settling in Australia.
- Internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work related to your field can strengthen your resume. Australian employers value practical experience, and it can improve your chances of finding a job in your area of study.
- Join professional associations and attend industry events. Networking can help you understand local job markets and connect with potential employers or mentors.
- Regularly check for updates to the SOL and state-specific lists. These lists change based on labour market needs, so staying informed helps you adjust your plans accordingly.
- Consult a registered migration agent who can help you by providing advice and ensuring the process of the Australia Skilled Occupation List. Providing personalised advice will help you to ensure that you are on the right track.
Conclusion
In summary, the Australia Skilled Occupation List (SOL) is super helpful for international students who want to live and work in Australia after studying. By picking a course that matches the jobs on the SOL, you make it easier to get a visa and start your career Down Under.
Focus on studying in a region where your profession is in demand, gain some relevant work experience, and stay on top of updates to the SOL. Networking with people in your field and getting advice from migration experts can also give you a big advantage.
With a bit of smart planning and effort, your study abroad experience can turn into a great opportunity for living and working in Australia.
FAQs
Ans. Australia Skilled Occupation List (SOL) regularly features occupations in high demand. Technology consistently tops the list, with roles like software developers, data analysts, and cybersecurity specialists being particularly sought after. Healthcare professionals, including nurses, doctors, and allied health workers, are also in high demand due to the country’s aging population. Trades such as plumbing, electrical work, and carpentry are essential for infrastructure development.
Ans. A skilled worker in Australia typically possesses a combination of qualifications, experience, and English language proficiency. This means having a relevant degree, diploma, or trade qualification from a recognized institution, along with practical experience in your field. Additionally, demonstrating adequate English language skills, often through tests like IELTS or TOEFL is also necessary.
Ans. The most reliable way to check if your occupation is in demand in Australia is to visit the Department of Home Affairs website. They publish the official Skilled Occupation List, which is regularly updated. Alternatively, consulting with an immigration agent or lawyer can provide personalised advice and guidance based on your specific circumstances.
Ready to take the next step in your study abroad journey? Explore the Australia Skilled Occupation List today and choose a course that sets you up for success and stay connected with Leverage Edu for the latest updates and insights!
Related Reads: