NEW SKILLS IN DEMAND VISA

In its latest Migration Strategy update, the Australian Federal Government has outlined plans to introduce a new visa, called the ‘Skills in Demand’ visa. This visa aims to replace the existing TSS (Subclass 482) visa and will feature three distinct pathways tailored to various skill sets and occupations:

1. The Specialist Skills Pathway is designated for professionals outside the trades, machinery operations, drivers, and labour sectors, who earn a minimum of $135,000. This salary threshold ensures they are compensated no less than Australian counterparts in similar roles.

2. The Core Skills Pathway requires occupations to be listed on the ‘Core Skills Occupation List’ (CSOL), a directory of roles that Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) identifies as experiencing shortages. Additionally, this list includes occupations that Australia has committed to supporting through international trade agreements. For eligibility, individuals must earn above the current Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) of $70,000, which was adjustment on July 1, 2024.

3. The Essential Skills Pathway will offer a regulated route for lower-paid workers possessing critical skills. This pathway will be developed in collaboration with State and Territory governments and unions, ensuring a comprehensive approach to address essential skill gaps. This is expecteed to be similar to the recent industry labout agreements for the aged care industry. 
 

There is no definitive start date for implementation, however, “end of the year” (calendar 2024 has been mentioned). For consultation on the Core Skills Pathway occupations, refer to: Jobs & Skills Australia announce Draft new Core Skills List

Date Published: April 10,2024