On 3 December 2024, the Australian Department of Home Affairs (Department) announced the introduction of the new Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL). This list replaces the previous Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL), while also integrating the 482 and 186 visa occupation lists.
The CSOL will take effect on 7 December 2024, representing a significant policy shift and offering new immigration opportunities for both skilled workers and employers.
Key Highlights of the CSOL Update: Unified 482 and 186 Visa Occupation Lists
The new CSOL includes 456 occupations, offering a more efficient and flexible pathway for skilled workers and employers.
The new CSOL Occupation list will apply to:
- Skills in Demand Visa (SID): Starting 7 December 2024 this will replace the current 482 visa.
- 186 Visa Direct Entry (DE) : The number of eligible occupations has expanded from 216 to 456, significantly increasing the chances for applicants to directly obtain permanent residence through employer sponsorship.
The unification and simplification of the occupation lists allow skilled workers to directly apply for the 186 visa without first transitioning through the 482 visa.
Applicants who meet the requirements for three years of relevant work experience, skills assessment and language proficiency will find it easier to secure permanent residence directly.
From 8:30 PM, 6 December 2024 to 12:00 PM, 7 December 2024: The Department’s system will undergo a full upgrade.
Applications for the 482 visa must be submitted before this window closes, as the new regulations will apply thereafter.
Analysis of the New CSOL: Changes in Popular Occupations and Industry Trends
The new CSOL has made adjustments across multiple industries, opening new immigration pathways for various occupations:
New Occupations Added:
- Retail and Office Management: Retail Manager, Retail Buyer, Office Manager
- Childcare and Education: Childcare Worker (currently must be Room Leader with an employer in a regional area)
- Health and Wellness: Massage Therapist (currently, the employer must be in a regional area)
- Engineering and Construction: Includes a wide range of occupations in construction, carpentry, bricklaying and other related fields.
These additions offer more choices and opportunities for professionals in these industries.
The following occupations remain on the CSOL, highlighting their continued importance for employer-sponsored migration in Australia:
- Accounting Occupations: Accountant (General), Taxation Accountant, Management Accountant, Internal Auditor, Finance Broker
- Engineering and IT Occupations: Most computer and engineering roles, such as Information and Organisation Professionals (nec), Software Engineer, Civil Engineer, and others.
- Hospitality and Culinary Occupations: Chef, Cook, Pastry Cook, Baker
- Marketing Occupations: Marketing Specialist, Public Relations Professional
- These professions continue to be key for skilled migration applicants seeking employer sponsorship.
Some commonly held occupations have been removed from the list, such as:
- Child Care Centre Manager
- Cafe or Restaurant Manager
- Dancer or Choreographer
- Fashion Designer
- Graphic Designer
- Teacher of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
- Tennis Coach
For some professionals, these changes may increase the difficulty of applying. However, by re-considering their occupational classification, some of these roles may still be able to meet the requirements for the SID visa.
Practical Impact of the New Policy: Who Will Benefit?
With the unification of the occupation lists, applicants who previously needed to transition through the 482 visa can now apply directly for the 186 visa by meeting the requirements for three years of work experience, skills assessment and language proficiency.
This change means:
- No need for the 482 visa application and transition time
- Significant cost savings
Business Graduates: Professionals in fields such as Finance Manager and Marketing Specialist, who were previously restricted by the occupation list, can now apply directly for the 186 visa without the need for regional sponsorship.
Skilled Workers: Occupations in construction, carpentry and IT remain on the list, providing a more reliable immigration pathway for workers in these sectors.
The new CSOL allows a wider range of occupations to apply for permanent residency through employer sponsorship. This creates a win-win situation for both employers and skilled workers, offering greater flexibility and opportunity.
Application Recommendations: How to Seize the Policy Opportunity
For applicants whose occupations remain on the current list, it is advisable to submit applications as soon as possible before 7 December 2024, to avoid missing out on this opportunity.
Applicants whose occupations have been removed from the list can re-consider their occupational classification and modify their strategy accordingly.
The new CSOL imposes stricter requirements for skills assessment, work experience and language proficiency. Applicants should prepare the following documents in advance:
- Skills assessment
- Proof of three or more years of relevant work experience (either in Australia or overseas)
- Evidence of English language proficiency (e.g. IELTS scores with a minimum of 6.0 in each component etc)
Unlock Your Future: Seize the New Immigration Opportunities
The introduction of the new CSOL marks a significant milestone in Australia’s skilled immigration policy. It expands immigration pathways to include more industries and occupations, while also providing a more flexible and efficient route for employer-sponsored visas.
For skilled migrants, this is an opportune moment to leverage the benefits of these policy changes and pursue their immigration goals.
Should you have any questions regarding the occupation list or visa policies, we encourage you to consult an immigration professional.
You may also visit the Department’s website for the latest updates.
We wish all applicants the best of luck in their immigration journey and the beginning of an exciting new chapter in their lives.
This article was prepared and written by our immigration lawyer team at Brightstone Migration and reviewed by Mei Guo, Partner Solicitor and Head of Immigration, to provide professional insights and commentary. The content is for reference only and does not constitute specific legal advice.
Last updated: 06/12/2024
