On 1st July 2013, the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) was updated.
The following occupations have been removed, namely:
- Hospital Pharmacist (ANZSCO 251511)
- Retail Pharmacist (ANZSCO 251513)
- Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Avionics) (ANZSCO 323111)
- Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Mechanical) (ANZSCO 323112)
- Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Structures) (ANZSCO 323113)
What exactly is this Skilled Occupation List and what does it do?
The Skilled Occupation List or SOL is a document containing the list of skilled occupations the economy of Australia needs currently and over the next three to five years. It very useful for people considering migrating to Australia through the following programs:
- Independent points-based skilled migration (NOT nominated by a State or Territory government);
- Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate visa in the graduate work stream); or
- Family sponsored stream of the Subclass 489 Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa.
Who updates it and how?
Every year, the SOL is reviewed by the Australian Workforce and Productivity Agency (AWPA) to see if there is a need to update the list depending on Australia’s current, emerging, and future skills for the economy’s workforce development. AWPA uses a combination of macro-economic data, labor market data, and advice from relevant industry bodies to identify the skills needed for the medium and long term. For their 2013 review, submissions from unions, peak industry associations, industry skills councils, and a range of professional associations were included.
When providing advice as to what occupations should be included on the SOL, AWPA takes into consideration such as an occupation’s skill level, and the lead time essential to develop the needed skills.
Aside from advising the Australian government about demand, supply, and use of skills, AWPA also provides strategic advice and recommends priorities for the National Workforce Development Fund.
You can download the SOL by clicking here.
My occupation is not found in the SOL, what are my other options?
If your occupation is not on the SOL, do not worry, you may be eligible for State and Territory nomination or other visa programs. States & Territory governments, as well as employers in Australia, have access to a wider range of occupations on the Consolidated Sponsored Occupation List (CSOL).
You can download the CSOL by clicking here.
Australia Immigration Specialist Pte Ltd provides complete assistance for Australian visa applications. If you want to find out your immigration options or if you have further questions concerning your eligibility, please contact us for further information and advice.
