Skilled Jobs in Demand in Australia: Elevate Your Life, Get the Chance to Work in Australia!
The Skilled Occupation List (SOL) is designed to attract skilled workers who can fill critical labour shortages nationwide. There is a persistent labour shortage in Australia in several vital industries, including trades, engineering, healthcare, and information technology, making skilled jobs in demand in Australia.
This article is your comprehensive resource, providing up-to-date information about the skilled jobs in demand and their role in Australia’s skilled migration program. It offers valuable insights into the list, the associated visa subclasses, and practical advice on navigating the skilled migration pathway, ensuring you are well informed and prepared for your journey.
What is the Skilled Occupation List (SOL)?
The Skilled Occupation List (SOL) lists eligible occupations for the Australian Skilled Migration Visa and Employer-Sponsored Visa. Some occupations listed in SOL are currently in high demand within the Australian labour market, and these result in a list of skilled jobs in demand in Australia. The primary purpose of the SOL is to guide the skilled migration program by highlighting the specific occupations the country needs to fill to support economic and social infrastructure.
Key Visa Subclasses Linked to the SOL
The SOL is integral to several skilled migration visa subclasses, each catering to different categories of qualified workers. Here are the key visa subclasses associated with the SOL:
- Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa (subclass 186) for skilled workers nominated by an Australian employer.
- Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) visa (subclass 187) – Temporary Residence Transition Stream: For skilled workers nominated by an employer in regional Australia.
- Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) – Points-tested stream: For skilled workers not sponsored by an employer, state, or family member.
- Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190): For skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory.
- Training visa (subclass 407): For individuals seeking to participate in workplace-based training programs.
- Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482): For employers to address temporary skill shortages.
- Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) – Graduate Work: For recent graduates with skills in demand.
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491): For skilled workers nominated by a state or sponsored by an eligible family member in regional Australia.
- Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 494): For skilled workers sponsored by an employer in regional Australia.
This article will also break down the critical occupations under each category of ANZSCO codes.
The ANZSCO (Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations) system provides a standardised framework for classifying occupations based on their skill level and tasks. Each occupation listed on the SOL is assigned a unique ANZSCO code, which helps streamline the migration process by clearly defining the requirements for each role. This coding system ensures that the qualifications and skills of migrants match Australia’s labour market needs, facilitating a more efficient and effective migration process.
Get the latest news on the Australian Skilled Migration Visa here.
Breakdown of 2024 Skilled Jobs in Demand in Australia
Australia’s labour market has identified several vital sectors where skilled professionals are critically needed. Here are top 5 sectors that are currently in demand in Australia:
- healthcare and medical sector,
- engineering and construction sector,
- information technology (IT) sector,
- trades sector,
- education and training sector.
It reflects the versatility and high demand of your skills in the Australian economy.
Skilled Jobs in Demand in the Healthcare and Medical Sector
Demand: With an aging population and growing healthcare needs, professionals in this sector are consistently in high demand across all regions of Australia.
Skilled Jobs in Demand:
1. General Medical Practitioner (ANZSCO: 253111)
- Task: Diagnoses, treats, and prevents human physical and mental disorders and injuries.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
2. Nurse Practitioner (ANZSCO: 254411)
- Task: Provide advanced and extended nursing care to patients by ordering diagnostic tests, conducting diagnosis and health assessments, prescribing patient care management, medicines, and therapies as authorised by relevant nursing legislation, and referring to specialist Medical Practitioners and other Health Professionals in a variety of health, welfare, and community settings.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
3. Biomedical Engineer (ANZSCO: 233913)
- Task: Apply knowledge and methodology of physics, engineering, mathematics, computing, physical chemistry, and materials science to biological problems and the treatment and prevention of human disease.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
4. Hospital Pharmacists (ANZSCO: 251511)
- Task: Prepare and distribute pharmaceuticals, drugs, and medications in a hospital pharmacy.
- Visa options: Subclass 190, 407, 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Short Term), 494
5. Physiotherapist (ANZSCO: 252511)
- Task: Assesses, treats, and prevents disorders in human movement caused by injury or disease.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
6. Dental Therapist (ANZSCO: 411214)
- Task: Examine and treat teeth diseases in preschool, primary, and secondary school children under the general supervision of a dentist.
- Visa options: Subclass 407, 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
7. Environmental Health Officer (ANZSCO: 251311)
- Task: Develop, enforce, and evaluate environmental health policies, programs, and strategies to improve health outcomes and oversee the implementation and monitoring of environmental health legislation.
- Visa options: Subclass 407, 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
8. Intensive Care Specialist (ANZSCO: 253317)
- Task: Investigate, diagnose, and treat patients needing intensive and critical care.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
9. Specialist Physicians nec (ANZSCO: 253399)
- Task: Diagnose and treat internal human disorders and diseases using specialist testing, diagnostic, and medical techniques.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
10. Clinical Psychologist (ANZSCO: 272311)
- Task: Consult with individuals and groups, assess psychological disorders, and administer treatment programs.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
Skilled Jobs in Demand in the Engineering and Construction Sector
Demand: As Australia continues to develop its infrastructure, there is a significant need for engineers and construction managers to support large-scale projects.
Skilled Jobs in Demand:
1. Civil Engineer (ANZSCO: 233211)
- Task: Plans, designs, organises, and oversees the construction and operation of dams, bridges, pipelines, gas and water supply schemes, sewerage systems, airports, and other civil engineering projects.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
2. Mechanical Engineer (ANZSCO: 233512)
- Task: Plans, designs, organises, and oversees the assembly, erection, commissioning, operation, and maintenance of mechanical and process plant and installations.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
3. Electrical Engineer (ANZSCO: 233311)
- Task: Designs, develops, and supervises the manufacture, installation, operation, and maintenance of equipment, machines, and systems for the generation, distribution, utilisation, and control of electric power.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
4. Construction Project Manager (ANZSCO: 133111)
- Task: Plans, organises, directs, controls, and coordinates the construction of civil engineering and building projects, as well as the physical and human resources involved in the construction process.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
5. Surveyor (ANZSCO: 232212)
- Task: Plans, directs, and conducts survey work to determine, delineate, plan, and precisely position tracts of land, natural and constructed features, coastlines, marine floors, and underground works, and manages related information systems.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
6. Aeronautical Engineer (ANZSCO: 233911)
- Task: Performs and supervises engineering work concerned with the design, development, manufacture, maintenance, and modification of aircraft for flight.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
7. Civil Engineering Draftsperson (ANZSCO: 312211)
- Task: Prepares detailed drawings and plans for civil engineering work in support of Civil Engineering Professionals and Engineering Technologists.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
8. Engineering Manager (ANZSCO: 133211)
- Task: Plans, organises, directs, controls, and coordinates the engineering and technical operations of an organisation.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium), 494
9. Electronics Engineer (ANZSCO: 233411)
- Task: Designs, develops, adapts, installs, tests, and maintains electronic components, circuits, and systems used for computer systems, communication systems, entertainment, transport, and other industrial applications.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
10. Engineering Technologist (ANZSCO: 233914)
- Task: Analyses and modifies new and existing engineering technologies and applies them in the testing and implementation of engineering projects.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
Skilled Jobs in Demand in the Information Technology (IT) Sector
Demand: The rapid growth of the tech industry and digital transformation initiatives have created a strong demand for IT professionals with advanced technical skills.
Skilled Jobs in Demand:
1. Developer Programmer (ANZSCO: 261312)
- Task: Interprets specifications, technical designs, and flow charts; builds, maintains, and modifies the code for software applications; constructs technical specifications from a business functional model; and tests and writes technical documentation.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
2. Network Administrator (ANZSCO: 263112)
- Task: Interprets specifications, technical designs, and flow charts; builds, maintains, and modifies the code for software applications; constructs technical specifications from a business functional model; and tests and writes technical documentation.
- Visa options: Subclass 190, 407, 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Short Term), 494
3. Analyst Programmer (ANZSCO: 261311)
- Task: Analyses user needs, produces requirements documentation and system plans, and encodes, tests, debugs, maintains, and documents programs and applications.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
4. Software Engineer (ANZSCO: 261313)
- Task: Designs, develops, modifies, documents, tests, implements, installs, and supports software applications and systems.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
5. Software Tester (ANZSCO: 261314)
- Task: Specifies, develops, and writes test plans and scripts; produces test cases; carries out regression testing and uses automated test software applications to test the behaviour, functionality, and integrity of computer software; and documents the results of tests in defect reports and related documentation.
- Visa options: Subclass 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Short Term), 494
Skilled Jobs in Demand in the Trades Sector
Demand: Skilled tradespeople are essential for maintaining and developing Australia’s infrastructure, making these occupations highly sought after, particularly in regional areas.
Skilled Jobs in Demand:
1. Electrician (General) (ANZSCO: 341111)
- Task: Installs, tests, connects, commissions, maintains, and modifies electrical equipment, wiring, and control systems. Registration or licensing is required.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
2. Plumber (General) (ANZSCO: 334111)
- Task: Installs and repairs water, drainage, gas, sewerage pipes and systems.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
3. Carpenters (ANZSCO: 331212)
- Task: Constructs, erects, installs, renovates, and repairs structures and fixtures of wood, plywood, wallboard, and other materials.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
4. Fitter-Welder (ANZSCO: 323213)
- Task: Fits, assembles, and welds metal parts and subassemblies to fabricate production machines and other equipment.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
5. Automotive Electrician (ANZSCO: 321111)
- Task: Install, maintain, and repair motor vehicle electrical wiring and electronic components.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
Skilled Jobs in Demand in the Education and Training Sector
Demand: The education sector needs qualified teachers and trainers to support Australia’s educational institutions, especially in rural and remote areas.
Skilled Jobs in Demand:
1. Early Childhood(Pre-primary School) Teacher (ANZSCO: 241111)
- Task: Plans, organises, and conducts activities to help pre-primary school students develop various skills, including speech, reading, writing, motor skills, and social interaction.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
2. Educational Psychologist (ANZSCO: 272312)
- Task: Investigate learning and teaching and develop psychological techniques to foster the development and skills of individuals and groups in educational settings.
- Visa options: Subclass 186, 189 (Point Test), 190, 407, 485 (Graduate Work), 491 (Family Sponsored), 491 (State or Territory Nomination), TSS 482 (Medium Term), 494
3. Training and Development Professional (ANZSCO: 223311)
- Task: Plans, develops, implements, and evaluates training and development programs to ensure management and staff acquire the skills and develop the competencies required by an organisation to meet organisational objectives.
- Visa options: Subclass 187 and 494
Geographical aspects and regional demand: where to apply?
The skilled jobs in demand in Australia vary geographically, with certain regions experiencing higher demand for specific occupations due to economic factors, population growth, and industry specialisation.
Detailed analysis of demand and lifestyle in critical regions:
| Region | Major City | In-demand occupations |
|---|---|---|
| New South Wales (NSW) | Sydney, Newcastle | Healthcare, IT, Engineering, Hospitality |
| Victoria (VIC) | Melbourne, Geelong | Education, Healthcare, Trades, IT |
| Queensland (QLD) | Brisbane, Gold Coast | Construction, Healthcare, Tourism, IT |
| South Australia (SA) | Adelaide | Education, Healthcare, Agriculture |
| Western Australia (WA) | Perth | Healthcare, IT, Engineering, Manufacture |
| Tasmania (TAS) | Hobart | Education, Healthcare, Hospitality, Engineering |
| Northern Territory (NT) | Darwin | Hospitality, Healthcare, Trades, Public Administration |
| Australian Capital Territory (ACT) | Canberra | Public Administration, IT, Education, Healthcare |
| Region | Major City | In-demand occupations |
|---|---|---|
| New South Wales (NSW) | Sydney, Newcastle | Healthcare, IT, Engineering, Hospitality |
| Victoria (VIC) | Melbourne, Geelong | Education, Healthcare, Trades, IT |
| Queensland (QLD) | Brisbane, Gold Coast | Construction, Healthcare, Tourism, IT |
| South Australia (SA) | Adelaide | Education, Healthcare, Agriculture |
| Western Australia (WA) | Perth | Healthcare, IT, Engineering, Manufacture |
| Tasmania (TAS) | Hobart | Education, Healthcare, Hospitality, Engineering |
| Northern Territory (NT) | Darwin | Hospitality, Healthcare, Trades, Public Administration |
| Australian Capital Territory (ACT) | Canberra | Public Administration, IT, Education, Healthcare |
The skilled jobs in demand in Australia may change depending on the Australian labour market. So, it’s best to regularly check the Skills Priority List for your future migration plan.
When is the Best Time to Apply?
Applying for a visa to work in Australia involves strategic timing to maximise your chances of success. Some key considerations to help you determine the best time to submit your application are occupation ceilings (this quota restricts the number of invites that can be given for each occupation during the program year), processing times, seasonal factors, and Australia’s economic condition. In addition, there are regular updates and changes to the skilled jobs in demand in Australia; you should stay informed about recent updates to ensure your migration plans align with current requirements.
Ensure you have already strategised your timing for the visa application and stay updated. ONEderland Consulting can help you ensure your visa application is on the right path to avoid refusal or rejection!
To conclude, the Australian Skilled Workers List or the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) plays a crucial role in Australia’s skilled migration program for potential migrants; the SOL serves as a guide to identify which skills and professions are in high demand, providing a clear pathway to live, work, and elevate your life in Australia.
We are here to assist you
We at ONEderland Consulting believe that the updated skilled jobs in demand in Australia can bring you new hope. We are committed to offering empathetic and individualised support while paying close attention to your circumstances and goals.
Our team of highly qualified and experienced migration specialists is dedicated to putting in a lot of effort and planning ahead of time on your behalf. We pay close attention to every detail and apply our extensive knowledge to handle even the most complex cases.
We are committed to being open and honest with you, keeping you updated and involved at every stage. We will work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for your future in Australia, and you can rely on us to be your dependable partner and advocate.
We are complex visa specialists. As registered Australian migration agents with the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA), we are regulated in our professional practice and bound by the profession’s Code of Conduct issued by the MARA.
Take the first step and contact us. Our team members are professional and honest and speak various languages, such as Mandarin/Chinese, Bahasa Indonesia, Arabic, Japanese, and Thai. Contact us by email at [email protected] or by phone at 1300 827 159. Alternatively, you may book your consultation online, and it is backed by our 100% Money Back Guarantee Program.
