5 important changes you need to know if you plan to be a skilled worker in Australia

There are recent shake-ups in the migration program in Australia aiming to attract more migrant workers to the country. Loads of options have been laid out by the federal government, but due to the labor workforce demand, the General Skilled Migration program is what they highlight the most.

To attract more skilled migrants federal states introduced new policies and requirements. Here are the 5 important changes you need to note if you are planning to work in Australia as a skilled worker.

1. New Occupations added

Western Australia has increased its list of occupations eligible for skilled migrants by about 60%. The overall number of occupations increased by over 100, including 46 in the healthcare industry, bringing it to 276 occupations. Below are some new occupations added on the list:

• Accommodation and Hospitality Managers 

• Hairdresser 

• Enrolled Nurse 

• Pharmacy Technician

South Australia’s GSM program also has updated its FY 2022-2023 list of skilled occupations. The state has one of the most comprehensive and complete lists of skilled occupations in the country, making them an ideal place for migrant workers.

2. Waived application fee and removal of sufficient fund requirements

The $200 application fee will be temporarily waived by the West Australian Government starting on July 1, 2022. Additionally, candidates who submit their applications after this date won't need to show that they have sufficient funds to qualify for WA State nomination.

3. Lowered English Requirement

The English language requirement has been reduced for applicants at the Manager and Professional occupation level based in Western Australia Skilled Migration Program 2022-23.

4. Skilled occupations are given priority nominations

The GSM program will prioritize the nominations of applicants with backgrounds in Health, ICT, Education, Engineering, Agribusiness, and Trades. This also includes candidates with skills that are related to growing sectors such as Hi-Tech / Digital, Health and Life Sciences, Green Energy, Defence, Space, and Cyber Security.

5. Reduced work experience requirements

Western Australia relaxes visa conditions on the required work experience for skilled workers. The state has removed the work experience condition for both onshore and offshore applicants under the Subclass 491 visa

What does this mean for you?

These new changes in Australia’s General Skilled Migration program are greatly advantageous for both offshore and onshore skilled workers. However, it is also important to note that some of these new policies are temporary and subject to change from time to time. For this reason, take advantage of these limited opportunities while the need still exists. 

You can fully take advantage of these limited opportunities with the proper guidance and assistance from our experts. We have been in the industry for more than 20 years, and our longstanding experience allows us to give your desired outcome.

Let us make your migration process easier for you