On 11 March Immigration introduced a number of new occupation lists affecting General Skilled and Employer-sponsored migration. This update follows a review and consultation period with the Department of Jobs and Small Business, to ensure that ‘the entry of skilled foreign workers to Australia remains carefully calibrated to Australia’s needs’.
There is great news for the sciences, as a number of occupations in this area have been added to the Medium and Long Term Skills Shortage List (MLTSSL). This makes skilled independent migration possible for Life Scientists, Biotechnologists, Environmental Research Scientists, and Microbiologists.
In total, 36 occupations have been added, as follows:
- Artistic Director
- Arts Administrator or Manager
- Biochemist
- Biotechnologist
- Botanist
- Chemist
- Conservator
- Dancer or Choreographer
- Economist
- Engineering Professionals NEC
- Environmental Consultant
- Environmental Manager
- Environmental Research Scientist
- Environmental Scientists NEC
- Food Technologist
- Footballer
- Geophysicist
- Horse Trainer
- Hydrogeologist
- Life Scientist (General)
- Life Scientists NEC
- Marine Biologist
- Metallurgist
- Meteorologist
- Microbiologist
- Mining Engineer (excluding Petroleum)
- Multimedia Specialist
- Music Director
- Musician (Instrumental)
- Natural and Physical Science Professionals NEC
- Petroleum Engineer
- Software and Applications Programmers NEC
- Statistician
- Tennis Coach
- University Lecturer
- Zoologist
The Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) has seen a number of changes, with 27 occupations removed; though most have gone to the Regional Occupation List (ROL).
Please note there are different occupation lists for Skilled Migration and Employer Sponsored migration – even though they have the same names. It is critical to ensure that you are looking at the correct occupation list for your chosen visa type.