Australia’s skilled visa programs are made up 3 main lists and which are currently being reviewed:
- Short-Term Skilled Occupation List
- Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List
- Regional Occupation List
“One of the problems is that we are trying to attract highly skilled people but only being able to offer a short term visa with no permanent residency avenue. This will of course mean that a move to Australia is less attractive and we are more likely to lose that talent to other markets.
A positive outcome would be if they combine the lists and give the option of permanent residency to all skilled workers under the TSS.
These are regularly reviewed to ensure they reflect genuine skills needs and help businesses continue to grow if skilled Australian workers are not available.
The current skills list can be found here.
The last update to the current Skilled Migration Occupation List was made when the COVID-19 pandemic had just hit. Shortly after Labor Government has increased the number of permanent migration visas available in 2022-23 from 160,000 to 195,000 places.
Read more: Migration Program planning levels
Upcoming immigration changes 2023
Dual Citizenship in Australia
Benefits of Australian Permanent Residency
Medical examinations waived for certain visas in Australia
Regional NSW-based direct pathway
Reasons for Australian Student Visa Refusal