What is the Skilled Occupation List in Australia?

Australia has long been a top destination for skilled professionals from across the globe, thanks to its thriving economy, high standard of living, and abundant career opportunities.

For individuals considering migration to Australia, one of the most important aspects of the immigration process is understanding the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).

This list plays a crucial role in determining eligibility for skilled migration visas, as it outlines the occupations currently in demand in the Australian labor market.

In this article, we will break down what the Skilled Occupation List is, why it matters, the types of lists under it, and how applicants can use it to enhance their chances of securing an Australian visa.

What is the Skilled Occupation List?

The Skilled Occupation List (SOL) is an official document published by the Australian Government that identifies professions and trades facing skill shortages within the country.

It serves as a guide for migrants who wish to apply for various skilled migration visas, such as:

• Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa

• Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa

• Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa

If your occupation appears on the SOL and you meet other eligibility criteria such as age, skills, and English proficiency, you may qualify to apply for these visa categories.

Why is the Skilled Occupation List Important?

The SOL is not just a list of jobs—it’s a reflection of Australia’s economic priorities and labor market needs. Here’s why it’s essential:

• Determines Visa Eligibility – Only applicants with occupations listed are considered for skilled visas.

• Addresses Skill Shortages – It ensures industries with labor gaps receive the required talent from overseas.

• Guides Applicants – It helps migrants focus on areas where their skills are in demand, improving chances of migration success.

• Supports Australia’s Growth – Skilled migration fills workforce gaps, boosting productivity and innovation.

Types of Skilled Occupation Lists

Australia’s skilled migration framework includes different lists depending on visa subclasses and employer needs. These lists are updated regularly based on labor market trends.

1. Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)

• For long-term skill shortages across the country.

• Relevant for visas like Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa).

• Includes occupations such as engineers, healthcare workers, IT professionals, and teachers.

2. Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL)

• Targets short-term workforce gaps.

• Applicable for Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa) and employer-sponsored visas.

• Includes occupations such as marketing specialists, hospitality managers, and sales representatives.

3. Regional Occupation List (ROL)

• Designed to address shortages in regional Australia.

• Relevant for Subclass 491 (Regional Provisional Visa).

• Encourages migrants to live and work in less populated areas.

How to Check if Your Occupation is on the List

Applicants can check the latest Skilled Occupation List on the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) website. Each occupation listed has an associated ANZSCO (Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations) code, which outlines the job description, required skills, and qualification criteria.

It’s crucial to verify that:

• Your skills and experience match the ANZSCO description.

• You undergo a skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your occupation.

Skills Assessment Requirement

Before applying for a visa, you must obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority. For example:

• Engineers must get assessed by Engineers Australia.

• Nurses are assessed by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC).

• IT professionals are assessed by the Australian Computer Society (ACS).

A positive skills assessment is mandatory to prove that your qualifications and work experience align with Australian standards.

Factors to Consider When Applying Through the SOL

• Points Test – For visas like Subclass 189 and 190, you must score a minimum of 65 points based on age, English proficiency, work experience, and education.

• State Nomination – For Subclass 190 and 491 visas, states and territories maintain their own occupation lists. Your occupation must be in demand in that region to receive nomination.

• Regular Updates – The SOL is reviewed periodically, and occupations may be added or removed depending on labor market changes. Always check the latest list before applying.

Benefits of Migrating Under the Skilled Occupation List

• Access to permanent residency pathways.

• Opportunity to live and work in Australia with your family.

• High earning potential and career growth in skill shortage sectors.

• Access to healthcare, education, and other social benefits.

• Ability to eventually apply for Australian citizenship.

Final Thoughts:

The Skilled Occupation List in Australia is a critical gateway for skilled professionals aiming to build their future in one of the world’s most attractive destinations. By aligning your skills and qualifications with Australia’s labor needs, you can significantly improve your chances of securing a skilled visa.

However, the process can be complex, with frequent updates to the SOL and varying requirements for each visa subclass. This is why many applicants choose to work with experienced immigration consultants who can guide them through skills assessment, visa applications, and state nomination processes.

Australia’s demand for skilled talent continues to grow. If your occupation is listed on the SOL, now might be the perfect time to take the next step toward your Australian migration journey.