Australian Skilled Worker List
A Complete Guide to the Australian Skilled Worker List in 2025
Are you considering a move to Australia for work? If so, the Australian Skilled Worker List is your first stop. This list outlines the occupations that are in demand across Australia, helping skilled professionals find job opportunities and qualify for various visa pathways. In this guide, we’ll break down what the Australian Skilled Worker List is, how it works, and what you need to know to boost your chances of moving to Australia.
What Is the Australian Skilled Worker List?
The Australian Skilled Worker List, also known as the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) or Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), is an official compilation of occupations that are currently needed in Australia’s labor market. These lists are used by the Department of Home Affairs to assess eligibility for skilled migration visas, including:
Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)
Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)
Skilled Work Regional Visa (subclass 491)
Being on the Australian Skilled Worker List means your profession is in demand—and that’s good news if you want to live and work in Australia.
Why Is the Skilled Worker List Important?
The Skilled Worker List is central to Australia’s points-based immigration system. To apply for many skilled visas, your occupation must appear on the relevant list. Without it, you may not be eligible to apply.
Some benefits of being on the list include:
Increased visa eligibility
Higher chances of receiving an invitation to apply
Access to state or territory sponsorship
Long-term job opportunities in Australia
Types of Australian Skilled Occupation Lists
There are several key occupation lists in use, depending on the visa you are applying for:
Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
For subclass 189 and 491 visas
Includes high-demand occupations like engineers, doctors, and IT professionals
Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL)
For subclass 190 and employer-sponsored visas
Covers short-term skill needs in industries like hospitality and marketing
Regional Occupation List (ROL)
For regional visas such as the 491
Targets skills needed outside major cities
Popular Occupations on the Australian Skilled Worker List (as of 2025)
Some of the top roles currently in demand on the Australian Skilled Worker List include:
Civil Engineers
Registered Nurses
Electricians
Software Developers
Accountants
Secondary School Teachers
Chefs
Plumbers
ICT Security Specialists
Construction Project Managers
Note: The lists are regularly updated based on labor market needs, so it's important to check the official government website for the most up-to-date information.
How to Check If Your Occupation Is on the Skilled Worker List
Visit the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
Use the Skilled Occupation List Search Tool.
Enter your occupation to see which visas it's eligible for and what assessing authority applies.
What to Do If Your Job Is on the List
If your occupation is on the Australian Skilled Worker List, you can take the next steps toward migration:
Have your qualifications assessed by the relevant authority
Check the English language requirements
Calculate your points on the points-based visa system
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect
Wait for an invitation to apply for a skilled visa
Final Thoughts
The Australian Skilled Worker List is a critical resource for anyone hoping to migrate to Australia through skilled migration. Whether you're an engineer, a healthcare professional, or a tradesperson, your path to Australia starts here. By understanding how the list works and where your occupation fits in, you’ll be well-prepared to take the next step in your migration journey.
