We reveal the most in demand jobs on the Australia Skilled Occupation List that give you the best chance of getting a permanent residency visa invitation for migrating to Australia
Planning to migrate to Australia for work? Understanding the Skill Shortage List Australia is your first step toward building a successful career Down Under.
With its high quality of life, strong economy, and world-class healthcare and education systems, Australia remains one of the most attractive destinations for skilled migrants from the UK. But securing a visa often depends on whether your profession is in demand.
This comprehensive guide reveals the most in-demand jobs on the 2026 Skilled Occupation List Australia, complete with salary information, visa pathways, qualification requirements, and everything you need to know about relocating from the UK. The Australian government plans to fill critical workforce gaps by recruiting skilled immigrants, and this could be you!
Latest Update for 2026: Easier Visa Pathways for Skilled Migrants
2026 presents some of the most promising opportunities in years for UK professionals looking to migrate to Australia. The government has introduced major reforms to align immigration with long-term workforce needs.
In December 2024, the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) was launched, replacing the previous Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List (PMSOL). This update reflects a shift away from short-term pandemic recovery roles towards a future-focused workforce, including sectors like sustainable energy, technology, healthcare, and education.
Major Visa System Changes
The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa has been replaced by the new Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482), which forms part of the broader Skilled Migration Program.
This new visa introduces a three-stream structure:
- Specialist Skills: For high-income, highly specialised professionals earning over AUD $135,000
- Core Skills: Covering in-demand roles in mainstream sectors with median salaries between AUD $70,000-$135,000
- Essential Skills: For critical service roles, often in care and support industries
These changes are designed to make skilled migration more streamlined and targeted, making it an ideal time for qualified professionals to explore migration pathways to Australia.
What Is the Australian Skill Shortage List?
The Australian Skill Shortage List is a government-maintained framework that identifies occupations experiencing workforce shortages across the nation. Jobs and Skills Australia (formerly the National Skills Commission) defines a shortage as an occupation where employers struggle to fill positions, using comprehensive data analysis and employer surveys to determine which roles require urgent attention.
Skilled Occupation List vs. Skill Shortage List: What’s the Difference?
While these terms sound similar and are often used interchangeably in conversation, they refer to different aspects of Australia’s skilled migration system. Understanding the distinction helps you navigate your visa options more effectively.
The Skilled Occupation List (SOL) refers to the official government list of occupations eligible for skilled migration visas. These lists—MLTSSL, STSOL, ROL, and CSOL—determine which occupations can apply for specific visa subclasses. Think of them as the “eligibility lists” that define the rules of the game.
The Skill Shortage List identifies occupations where Australia is experiencing actual workforce shortages based on real-time labor market data. Jobs and Skills Australia conducts comprehensive research using employer surveys, vacancy fill rates, and economic modeling to determine which roles employers are struggling to fill.
Here’s the key distinction:
| Aspect | Skilled Occupation List | Skill Shortage List |
| Purpose | Determines visa eligibility | Identifies current workforce gaps |
| Function | Legal framework for migration | Labor market intelligence |
| Updates | Annually or as needed | Quarterly reports, annual reviews |
| Source | Department of Home Affairs | Jobs and Skills Australia |
| Example | “Registered Nurses are on the MLTSSL” | “Registered Nurses have a 55% fill rate” |
Why Both Matter for Your Migration:
An occupation can be on the Skilled Occupation List but not experiencing a shortage, meaning you’re eligible to apply but face more competition. Conversely, an occupation in shortage but not on the SOL cannot access skilled migration pathways (though may qualify for employer sponsorship or DAMA agreements).
The sweet spot? Occupations that appear on both—like registered nurses, software engineers, and electricians—which enjoy visa eligibility and high demand, resulting in faster processing, more state nomination opportunities, and better employment prospects upon arrival.
When researching your migration options, always check:
- Is my occupation on an eligible SOL? (MLTSSL, STSOL, ROL, or CSOL)
- Is my occupation experiencing a shortage according to Jobs and Skills Australia?
- Which states are prioritizing my occupation for nomination?
This dual-list approach ensures Australia attracts skilled workers where they’re genuinely needed while maintaining structured immigration pathways.
Understanding the Key Occupation Lists for 2026
Australia maintains several occupation lists that determine visa eligibility and migration pathways. Understanding which list includes your occupation is crucial for choosing the right visa pathway:
Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
The MLTSSL contains 212 occupations and is relevant for:
- Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)
- Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)
- Skilled Work Regional Provisional visa (subclass 491)
Occupations on this list are considered in long-term demand and typically offer the most direct pathways to permanent residency, allowing you to live and work anywhere in Australia.
Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL)
The STSOL includes 215 occupations that are eligible for:
- Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)
- Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491)
These occupations address short-term workforce needs and generally require state or territory nomination for permanent residency pathways.
Regional Occupation List (ROL)
The ROL contains 77 additional occupations that are eligible specifically for:
- Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491)
This list targets regional skill shortages and encourages settlement outside major metropolitan areas like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL)
The CSOL features 456 in-demand occupations introduced in December 2024, supporting the new Skills in Demand (SID) visa program for employer-sponsored migration. This consolidated list addresses Australia’s current economic priorities across multiple sectors.
How the Lists Are Updated
Jobs and Skills Australia determines shortage ratings primarily by the vacancy fill rate. Occupations below 67% (meaning employers can only fill two-thirds of positions) are considered to have a high chance of being in shortage.
The assessment combines multiple data sources, including:
- Survey of Employers who have Recently Advertised (SERA)
- Stakeholder surveys from industry bodies
- Machine learning models analyzing job market trends
- Feedback from government agencies and Jobs and Skills Councils
According to the March 2025 Occupation Shortage Report, the national fill rate rose by 1.1 percentage points to 69.7%, signaling reduced difficulty in filling roles overall. However, Skill Level 3 occupations (technical and trades roles) remain hard to fill with a rate of just 55.5%. Regional areas show a fill rate of 64.3% compared to metropolitan areas at 71.6%, indicating regional shortages are often more acute.
Current Skill Shortages in Australia (2026 Update)
Based on the latest data from Jobs and Skills Australia and the March 2025 Occupation Shortage Report, here are the sectors and roles experiencing the most significant skill shortages:
Healthcare Professionals – Critical National Priority
Health professionals dominate the most undersupplied unit groups according to the Labour Supply Index, making healthcare one of the most promising sectors for skilled migration from the UK.
| Occupation | Average Salary (AUD) | Visa Pathways | Demand Level | Skills Assessment |
| Registered Nurse | $65,000-$120,000+ | 189, 190, 491 | Critical | AHPRA |
| General Practitioner | $180,000-$250,000 | 189, 190, 491 | Critical | AHPRA/MBA |
| Midwife | $70,000-$110,000 | 189, 190, 491 | Very High | AHPRA |
| Aged Care Worker | $75,000-$95,000 | 190, 491, 482 | Growing | ACWA |
| Occupational Therapist | $70,000-$95,000 | 189, 190, 491 | High | OTC |
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Registered Nurses remain in critical shortage across all states. Entry-level nurses start at around $65,000 per year, while experienced nurses with over 10 years of experience earn more than $120,000 annually. Specialized roles in ICU, mental health, and aged care can command even higher salaries, especially in regional areas.
The profession offers excellent work-life balance, paid leave, overtime allowances, and clear pathways to permanent residency. Due to Australia’s aging population and the growing implementation of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), demand for healthcare workers continues to intensify.
Key Requirements for Nurses:
- Bachelor of Nursing or equivalent qualification
- AHPRA registration
- NCLEX-RN exam (for international nurses)
- English proficiency: IELTS 7.0 overall (7.0 in each band) or OET B grade
Technology Professionals: Fastest Growing Sector
Australia’s ongoing digital transformation continues to drive exceptional demand for technology professionals, with software engineering experiencing 27% projected job growth over the next five years.
| Occupation | Average Salary (AUD) | Visa Pathways | Demand Level | Skills Assessment |
| Software Engineer | $104,000-$153,750 | 189, 190, 482 | Very High | ACS |
| Cybersecurity Specialist | $110,000-$140,000 | 189, 190, 482 | Critical | ACS |
| Data Scientist | $120,000-$190,000 | 189, 190, 482 | High | ACS |
| Database Administrator | $90,000-$130,000 | 189, 190, 482 | High | ACS |
| Systems Analyst | $95,000-$125,000 | 189, 190, 482 | High | ACS |
Software Engineers and Developers earn an average of $129,000 per year, with typical pay ranging between $104,000 (25th percentile) and $153,750 (75th percentile) annually. Sydney and Melbourne lead salary offerings, with rates 10-15% higher than the national average, while Brisbane and Perth are catching up fast with competitive wages.
Around 55,200 professionals are currently employed in software engineering across Australia, with the Australian government projecting a 22.6% increase in roles between 2023 and 2028—equating to about 58,000 new positions.
Cybersecurity experts are pulling in around $120,000 AUD annually, with senior positions commanding significantly more. The rise of remote work and increased cyber threats has made these roles essential.
Key Requirements for IT Professionals:
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, IT, or related field
- Relevant work experience (typically 2-5 years)
- Skills assessment from the Australian Computer Society (ACS)
- English proficiency: IELTS 6.0 overall minimum (aim for 7.0+ for competitive points)
Construction and Trades: Sustained High Demand
Australia’s infrastructure boom and housing construction drive ongoing demand for skilled tradespeople. Tradespeople are the backbone of Australia’s economy, maintaining and building the homes, utilities, and infrastructure that support daily life amid population growth.
| Occupation | Average Salary (AUD) | Visa Pathways | Demand Level | Skills Assessment |
| Electrician | $90,000–$130,000 | 189, 190, 482, 186 | Very High | TRA |
| Plumber | $75,000–$110,000 | 190, 482, 186 | Very Strong | TRA |
| Carpenter | $70,000–$95,000 | 190, 482, 186 | High | TRA |
| Bricklayer | $75,000–$100,000 | 190, 482, 186 | High | TRA |
| Construction Manager | $140,000–$160,000 | 186, 190 | High | VETASSESS |
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Electricians earn between $90,000 and $110,000 annually on average, with NSW and Northern Territories averaging $85,000 and Western Australia reaching up to $130,000 for experienced professionals. Strong demand exists in residential, commercial, and particularly in the booming renewable energy sectors.
Plumbers earn approximately $100,000 per year, with particularly strong job prospects in growing cities and new housing developments. With water conservation becoming a priority, expertise in sustainable plumbing systems adds significant value.
Carpenters earn around $95,000 annually, with strong, consistent demand across various sectors boosted by new housing construction and renovations. Carpenters with specialized skills in cabinetry or project management can transition into higher-paying roles.
Key Requirements for Trades:
- Certificate III qualification in your trade (or equivalent)
- Minimum 3-4 years of practical work experience
- Skills assessment from Trades Recognition Australia (TRA)
- Licensing requirements vary by state
- English proficiency: IELTS 6.0 overall minimum
Engineering Professionals: Infrastructure Development
Major federal and state infrastructure projects, combined with rapid population growt,h have placed engineering roles in high demand across multiple disciplines.
| Occupation | Average Salary (AUD) | Visa Pathways | Demand Level | Skills Assessment |
| Civil Engineer | $85,000–$130,000 | 189, 190, 482 | High | Engineers Australia |
| Mechanical Engineer | $90,000–$125,000 | 189, 190, 482 | Moderate–High | Engineers Australia |
| Environmental Engineer | $80,000–$120,000 | 189, 190, 482 | High | Engineers Australia |
| Geotechnical Engineer | $90,000–$130,000 | 189, 190, 482 | High | Engineers Australia |
Civil Engineers design, plan, and oversee the construction of essential infrastructure. Skills assessments come from Engineers Australia, and professionals have access to multiple visa streams, including the Skilled Independent (subclass 189) and employer-sponsored pathways.
Renewable energy engineers are particularly important as Australia works to meet its 2030 climate targets, with skilled migration in this field securing long-term careers while supporting the nation’s focus on decarbonization.
Key Requirements for Engineers:
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or higher
- Chartered Professional Engineer status (CPEng) is advantageous
- Skills assessment from Engineers Australia
- Minimum 3-5 years of relevant work experience
- English proficiency: IELTS 6.0 overall minimum (7.0+ competitive)
Education Professionals – Long-term Need
A teaching career in Australia is a popular choice for skilled UK migrants. This sector is essential for Australia’s future as the population grows and there’s renewed focus on early childhood development.
| Occupation | Average Salary (AUD) | Visa Pathways | Demand Level | Skills Assessment |
| Secondary Teacher | $65,000–$90,000 | 190, 491 | High | AITSL |
| Primary Teacher | $60,000–$85,000 | 190, 491 | High | AITSL |
| University Lecturer | $90,000–$130,000 | 189, 190 | Moderate | VETASSESS |
| Early Childhood Educator | $50,000–$75,000 | 190, 491 | Growing | ACECQA |
Australia faces a notable shortage of secondary school teachers, especially in regional areas and in high-need subjects like mathematics, sciences, and technology. Teacher eligibility is overseen by the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL).
Overseas professionals are key to addressing Australia’s education gaps, helping children develop early while supporting universities’ research excellence to compete on the international stage.
Key Requirements for Teachers:
- Bachelor’s degree in Education or discipline-specific degree plus teaching qualification
- Minimum 1 year of post-qualification teaching experience
- Skills assessment from AITSL
- English proficiency: IELTS 7.5 reading/listening, 8.0 speaking/writing (or equivalent)
Industries Comparison Table
| Sector | High-Demand Occupations | Average Salary (AUD) | Common Visa Pathways | Notes |
| Healthcare | Registered Nurse, Midwife, Aged Care Worker | $70,000–$110,000 | 189, 190, 482 | National priority |
| Tech | Software Engineer, Cybersecurity Analyst, Data Scientist | $90,000–$140,000 | 189, 190, 482 | Fastest-growing |
| Construction | Carpenter, Plumber, Project Manager | $75,000–$120,000 | 482, 186 | Regional shortages |
| Education | Secondary Teacher, Early Childhood Educator | $65,000–$90,000 | 190, 491 | Long-term need |
| Engineering | Civil, Mechanical, Mining Engineers | $85,000–$130,000 | 189, 190, 482 | High PR potential |
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Which Jobs Are in High Demand for Immigration?
Based on the latest data from Jobs and Skills Australia and the March 2025 Occupation Shortage Report, here are the Top 10 Occupations in Demand for 2026. These roles offer the strongest pathways to permanent residency and represent critical workforce needs across Australia.
Top 10 In-Demand Occupations for Skilled Migration
| Rank | Occupation | Salary Range (AUD) | Primary Visa Pathways | PR Likelihood | Skills Assessment |
| 1 | Registered Nurse | $65,000–$120,000+ | 189, 190, 491 | Excellent ⭐⭐⭐ | AHPRA |
| 2 | Software Engineer | $104,000–$153,750 | 189, 190, 482 | Excellent ⭐⭐⭐ | ACS |
| 3 | Electrician | $90,000–$130,000 | 190, 482, 186 | Very Good ⭐⭐ | TRA |
| 4 | Civil Engineer | $85,000–$130,000 | 189, 190, 482 | Excellent ⭐⭐⭐ | Engineers Australia |
| 5 | General Practitioner | $180,000–$250,000 | 189, 190 | Excellent ⭐⭐⭐ | AHPRA/MBA |
| 6 | Secondary Teacher | $65,000–$90,000 | 190, 491 | Very Good ⭐⭐ | AITSL |
| 7 | Plumber | $75,000–$110,000 | 190, 482, 186 | Very Good ⭐⭐ | TRA |
| 8 | Cybersecurity Specialist | $110,000–$140,000 | 189, 190, 482 | Excellent ⭐⭐⭐ | ACS |
| 9 | Construction Manager | $140,000–$160,000 | 186, 190 | Excellent ⭐⭐⭐ | VETASSESS |
| 10 | Aged Care Worker | $50,000–$75,000 | 190, 491, 482 | Good ⭐ | ACWA |
PR Likelihood Guide:
- ⭐⭐⭐ Excellent: High demand, multiple visa pathways, fast processing
- ⭐⭐ Very Good: Strong demand, may require state nomination
- ⭐ Good: Demand exists, often requires regional or employer sponsorship
Why These Occupations Top the List
Healthcare dominates the shortage list with registered nurses, GPs, and aged care workers experiencing critical shortages. Health professionals represent the most undersupplied unit groups according to Jobs and Skills Australia’s Labour Supply Index.
Technology roles continue to experience explosive growth, with software engineers and cybersecurity specialists benefiting from Australia’s digital transformation. The tech sector is experiencing 27% job growth over five years.
Skilled trades remain in constant demand due to infrastructure expansion and housing construction. Electricians, plumbers, and construction managers are essential to Australia’s economic growth.
Education professionals, particularly secondary teachers in high-need subjects like mathematics and sciences, face acute shortages, especially in regional areas.
Other High-Demand Sectors Worth Considering
Beyond the top 10, strong opportunities exist in:
- Engineering: Mechanical, environmental, and renewable energy engineers ($80,000-$130,000)
- Healthcare Support: Occupational therapists, midwives, medical laboratory scientists ($70,000-$95,000)
- Business & Finance: Accountants, auditors, management consultants ($70,000-$150,000)
- Trades: Carpenters, bricklayers, welders ($60,000-$95,000)
- Education: Primary teachers, early childhood educators ($50,000-$85,000)
Note: Occupations marked in the government’s critical shortage list, identified by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, include nursing, teaching, cybersecurity, aged care, and trades.
Make an enquiry to learn more about job opportunities and visa pathways
Can I Migrate to Australia if My Job Is on the Shortage List?
Being on the skill shortage list significantly improves your eligibility for Australian migration, but it doesn’t guarantee visa approval. Your occupation being in demand is just one piece of the puzzle you must still meet all visa requirements and pass the points threshold.
What Being on the List Means for You
Improved Chances:
- ✅ Higher priority in visa processing
- ✅ More invitation rounds for your occupation
- ✅ Access to multiple visa pathways
- ✅ Better prospects for state nomination
- ✅ Greater employer interest in sponsorship
What You Still Need:
- Positive skills assessment from designated authority
- Sufficient points score (minimum 65, competitive 85+)
- English language proficiency at required level
- Meet health and character requirements
- Be under 45 years of age (for most skilled visas)
- Relevant qualifications and work experience
How Nomination, Sponsorship, and State Migration Work
State or Territory Nomination (Subclass 190 & 491)
States and territories nominate skilled workers based on their specific workforce needs. Each state maintains its own occupation list and requirements:
- Application Process: Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) to SkillSelect, indicating preferred states
- State Requirements: May include job offers, commitment to live/work in state, specific experience levels
- Points Bonus: 190 adds 5 points, 491 adds 15 points to your score
- Processing: States review EOIs and invite candidates who meet their criteria
- Commitment: Must live and work in nominating state for 2-3 years (190) or throughout provisional period (491)
Employer Sponsorship
Australian employers can sponsor skilled workers when they can’t find suitable local candidates:
- Subclass 482 (Skills in Demand): Temporary visa (2-4 years) with pathway to PR
- Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme): Direct permanent residency
- Requirements: Approved sponsor, genuine position, market-rate salary, relevant experience
- No Points Test: Employer-sponsored visas don’t require points calculation
- Broader Occupations: CSOL includes 456 occupations beyond standard skilled lists
How Regional Skill Shortages Differ from National Ones
Regional Australia faces more acute workforce challenges than metropolitan areas, creating unique opportunities for skilled migrants. According to the March 2025 Occupation Shortage Report:
Fill Rate Comparison:
- Metropolitan areas: 71.6% fill rate
- Regional areas: 64.3% fill rate
This 7.3 percentage point gap indicates employers in regional Australia struggle significantly more to fill positions, creating better opportunities for skilled migrants willing to relocate outside major cities.
Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMAs)
DAMAs are formal agreements between the Australian Government and regional areas, allowing regions to sponsor skilled and semi-skilled workers in occupations not on standard lists.
How DAMAs Work:
DAMAs provide flexibility for regional employers to:
- Access occupations not on MLTSSL, STSOL, or ROL
- Sponsor workers with lower English requirements (case-by-case)
- Offer concessions on age, salary, or qualification requirements
- Address specific regional workforce needs
Current DAMAs in Operation:
| Region | Key Industries | Unique Occupations Available |
| Northern Territory | Tourism, hospitality, construction | Café/restaurant managers, chefs, hospitality workers |
| Orana (NSW) | Agriculture, meat processing | Meat inspectors, livestock workers, farm managers |
| Adelaide (SA) | Tech, healthcare, manufacturing | Broader healthcare roles, engineering technicians |
| Great South Coast (VIC) | Agriculture, aquaculture | Fishing workers, agriculture technicians |
| Far North Queensland | Tourism, agriculture | Tourism operators, tropical agriculture specialists |
| Pilbara (WA) | Mining, resources | Mining support workers, heavy machinery operators |
| Kalgoorlie-Boulder (WA) | Mining, hospitality | Mine workers, accommodation managers |
Application Process:
- Secure job offer from a DAMA-approved employer
- Employer lodges DAMA nomination
- Meet DAMA-specific requirements (vary by region)
- Apply for a subclass 482 or 494 visa
- Transition to PR after the required period
Regional vs Metropolitan Occupations Comparison
Some occupations face much stronger demand in regional areas than in cities:
| Occupation | Metro Demand | Regional Demand | Regional Advantage |
| General Practitioner | High | Critical | ⭐⭐⭐ Much higher salaries + incentives |
| Registered Nurse | High | Critical | ⭐⭐⭐ Bonuses, relocation assistance |
| Secondary Teacher | Moderate | High | ⭐⭐ Especially maths/science |
| Electrician | High | Critical | ⭐⭐⭐ Infrastructure boom |
| Plumber | High | Critical | ⭐⭐⭐ Housing construction |
| Civil Engineer | High | High | ⭐⭐ Infrastructure projects |
| Aged Care Worker | High | Critical | ⭐⭐⭐ Aging rural population |
| Automotive Mechanic | Moderate | High | ⭐⭐ Limited local workforce |
| Early Childhood Educator | Moderate | High | ⭐⭐ Growing families moving regional |
| Accountant | High | Moderate | ⭐ Similar demand both areas |
💡 Pro Tip: Choose regional areas with strong job markets in your field and lifestyle amenities you value. Adelaide, Canberra, and Newcastle offer the “best of both worlds”. It’s a regional designation but with big city amenities and opportunities.
How to Apply for Skilled Migration from the UK
Moving to Australia through skilled migration involves a few clear steps. Here’s how to plan your application from start to finish.
Step 1: Check if Your Occupation Is on the Skilled Shortage List
Explanation: ‘’An ANZSCO code is a six-digit code that classifies occupations in Australia and New Zealand based on skill level, qualifications, and tasks’’
Start by visiting the Jobs and Skills Australia website and searching for your occupation using its job title or ANZSCO code. Confirm which list it appears. It can be on MLTSSL, STSOL, ROL, or CSOL; and whether it’s in demand nationally or regionally. If you’re considering state nomination, review each state’s occupation list.
Before moving on, answer these questions:
- Is my occupation listed as eligible for migration?
- Which visa subclasses can I apply for?
- What’s the demand level (national or regional)?
- Are there extra state-specific requirements?
This step usually takes one to two days and is free.
Step 2: Complete Your Skills Assessment
A skills assessment is mandatory before submitting your Expression of Interest (EOI). The assessing authority depends on your profession:
| Profession | Assessing Authority |
| Engineer | Engineers Australia |
| Healthcare Professional | AHPRA |
| IT / Tech | ACS |
| Tradesperson | TRA |
| Teacher | AITSL |
| Accountant | CPA Australia, CA ANZ, or IPA |
| Other Professions | VETASSESS |
You’ll need academic transcripts, degree certificates, employment references with detailed duties, payslips or tax records, your CV, and (if required) English test results.
Processing typically takes 6–12 weeks and costs AUD $500–$1,500. Assessments are valid for three years, so start early — you can’t move forward without it.
Step 3: Choose the Right Visa (189, 190, 491, or 482)
Next, decide which visa pathway fits your profile.
- Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent): For high scorers (85+ points) with occupations on the MLTSSL. It grants permanent residency and freedom to live anywhere in Australia.
- Subclass 190 (State Nominated): Adds 5 points to your score if you commit to living in the sponsoring state for 2–3 years.
- Subclass 491 (Regional Provisional): Adds 15 points for regional settlement and offers a PR pathway after three years.
- Subclass 482 (Employer Sponsored): For applicants with a confirmed job offer; it’s processed faster and doesn’t require points testing.
- Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination): Employer-sponsored permanent visa for experienced professionals.
| Visa | Best For | Points Needed | PR Status | Processing Time |
| 189 | High scorers, MLTSSL | 85+ | Immediate | 8–12 months |
| 190 | State nomination | 80+ (with state 5) | Immediate | 8–10 months |
| 491 | Regional visa | 80+ (with 15) | After 3 years | 9–12 months |
| 482 | Employer-sponsored | None | Temporary | 1–4 months |
| 186 | Employer-sponsored, experienced | None | Immediate | 6–9 months |
Step 4: Submit Your Expression of Interest (EOI)
Once your skills assessment and English test are complete, create a SkillSelect account and submit your EOI. Enter your qualifications, experience, and supporting documents. The system will calculate your points automatically.
You can apply for multiple visa types (189, 190, 491) simultaneously, select preferred states, and update your EOI anytime if your details change. It’s free to submit and valid for two years.
Invitation timelines vary by points:
- 90+ points: 1–3 months
- 85–89 points: 3–6 months
- 65–84 points: 6–12+ months (less likely without nomination)
Once invited, you have 60 days to lodge your visa application. Prepare your documents and ensure you can pay the AUD $4,910 visa fee.
Step 5: Plan Your Move Logistics
While waiting for visa approval, start preparing your relocation. This stage can take several months, especially if you’re shipping belongings or relocating pets.
Why plan early:
- Sea freight shipping takes 8–12 weeks
- Quarantine and biosecurity rules require advance planning
- Pet relocation needs at least 6 months’ notice
- Early bookings secure better rates and reduce stress
What PSS Removals handles:
- Pre-move: Free consultation, packing, and export wrapping
- Shipping: Shared or dedicated containers, air freight, and real-time tracking
- Arrival: Customs clearance, delivery, unpacking, and storage options
- Extras: Pet relocation, vehicle shipping, excess baggage, and temporary accommodation
Typical timeline:
| Timing | Action |
| 6 months before visa grant | Get quotes, start decluttering |
| 3 months before | Book removal company, start packing |
| 1 month before | Confirm shipment and delivery plans |
| On visa grant | Coordinate shipping and travel |
| On arrival | Stay in temporary housing until shipment arrives |
Step 6: Get Expert Help
For the smoothest experience, work with both a Registered Migration Agent (MARA) and an International Removal Specialist.
- Migration Agent: Maximizes your visa eligibility, manages your application, and ensures compliance with immigration law.
- Removal Specialist (PSS Removals): Handles logistics, quarantine compliance, and coordination so your belongings arrive safely and on time.
Using both ensures your visa timeline and shipping schedule align perfectly — minimizing delays and stress during your move.
Ready to start your migration process?
Contact PSS International Removals for personalized relocation planning and a free quote that fits your visa timeline.
Australia Occupation Shortage List for 2026
To see the list of jobs that are most in demand in each state, or just Australia as a whole, check it out here.
The Full Australia Core Skilled Occupation List
On the revised occupation list, there are over 400 job titles. Click here to see if your job is on the CSOL.
Click here for more information on job opportunities and visas for Australia
Wrapping all Up
Migrating to Australia from the UK isn’t just a paperwork process. I’s a life-changing move that requires strategy, patience, and the right support. From checking your occupation list and completing a skills assessment to securing a visa and planning logistics, every step you take brings you closer to a new chapter filled with opportunity.
The most successful applicants are those who start early, prepare thoroughly, and work with trusted professionals. With a qualified migration agent guiding your visa journey and an experienced removal specialist like PSS International Removals managing the move itself, you can turn a complex process into a seamless transition.
Australia is ready to welcome skilled professionals, and there’s never been a better time to make the move.
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Let PSS International Removals handle the heavy lifting.
Get a free, no-obligation consultation and discover how we can help you move to Australia with confidence and peace of mind.
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Your new life in Australia starts with one simple step — let’s make it happen.
Disclaimer: Migration policies and occupation lists are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with the Australian Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Visa outcomes depend on individual circumstances.
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FAQ
What is the current skill shortage list in Australia?
Australia maintains four occupation lists: MLTSSL (212 occupations), STSOL (215 occupations), ROL (77 occupations), and CSOL (456 occupations). Health professionals, technology workers, and skilled trades dominate current shortages, with the national fill rate at 69.7% according to the March 2025 report.
How do I qualify for the skilled occupation list?
You need: (1) occupation on an eligible list, (2) positive skills assessment, (3) minimum 65 points (85+ competitive), (4) English proficiency (IELTS 6.0+), (5) under 45 years, (6) health and character clearances, (7) relevant qualifications and experience.
Which jobs are in high demand in Australia for immigration?
Top 10: Registered nurses ($65k-$120k), software engineers ($104k-$154k), electricians ($90k-$130k), civil engineers ($85k-$130k), GPs ($180k-$250k), teachers ($65k-$90k), plumbers ($75k-$110k), cybersecurity specialists ($110k-$140k), construction managers ($140k-$160k), and aged care workers ($50k-$75k).
Can I migrate to Australia if my job is on the shortage list?
Being listed significantly improves chances but doesn’t guarantee approval. You must still meet all visa requirements including skills assessment, points threshold, English proficiency, and other eligibility criteria.
What are the visa options for skilled workers in Australia?
Permanent: Subclass 189 (independent), 190 (state nominated), 491 (regional provisional leading to PR). Employer-sponsored: Subclass 482 (Skills in Demand), 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme). Choice depends on occupation list, points, and whether you have employer or state sponsorship.
How often is the list updated by the government?
Typically annually, though urgent changes can occur more frequently. The March 2025 Occupation Shortage Report represents the latest assessment. Consultations for the 2025 CSOL opened August 2025.
What qualifications are required to meet the shortage list criteria?
Qualification requirements vary by occupation. Skill Level 1 roles typically need a Bachelor’s degree or higher, while Skill Levels 2-3 roles require a Diploma or Certificate III/IV. Generally, 2-5 years of relevant work experience is necessary, as more experience increases your assessment points. Experience must be in your nominated or closely related occupation. Some roles require registration or licensing, such as teachers and healthcare professionals. You’ll also need skills assessment approval, demonstrate English proficiency, and, in some fields, provide evidence of ongoing professional development to maintain current skills.
What’s the processing time?
Skills assessment: 6-12 weeks. Visa processing: 189 (8-12 months), 190 (8-10 months), 491 (9-12 months), 482 (1-4 months), 186 (6-9 months). Times vary based on application complexity and current volumes.
Do I need a job offer?
No for independent visas (189, 190, 491)—these are points-tested. Yes for employer-sponsored visas (482, 186). However, a job offer can increase points for independent visas and demonstrate commitment from Australian employers.
How much does it cost?
Skills assessment: $500-$1,500. English test: $350-$400. Visa application: $4,910 (primary), $2,455 (partner), $1,230 (child). Additional: Health exams ($300-$450), police checks (varies), migration agent optional ($3,000-$8,000).
What about regional vs metropolitan?
Regional areas show 64.3% fill rate vs. 71.6% metropolitan, indicating more acute shortages. Regional visas offer 15 bonus points (vs. 5 for state), lower competition, and PR pathway after 3 years. Consider if open to living outside Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, or Gold Coast.
