Australia launches Core Skills Occupation List and New Skills In Demand (SID) Visa
The Australian Government has introduced the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) as part of its commitment to modernizing and streamlining the countryโs skilled migration program. This new consolidated list of 456 occupations will simplify visa applications and better align migration pathways with Australiaโs labour market needs.

New Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) Announced:
The new CSOL is an updated list of 456 occupations to simplify and enhance access to temporary skilled migration, based on the recommendations from Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA).
A number of occupations have been removed and some added in this new CSOL list starting 7 Dec 2024 onwards.
“Cafรฉ or Restaurant Manager” is no longer listed on the CSOL, however, occupations such as “Retail Manager and Hotel Service Managers nec” are listed.
This means you can only lodge a valid TSS SC482 visa application up until 6 Dec 2024 only as from 7 Dec 2024, the new CSOL list will be applicable.
To explain a hotel or restaurant cannot sponsor a cafรฉ or restaurant manager from 7 Dec 2024 onwards, however, a Quick Service Retail (QSR) outlet or fast food outlet can still sponsor a manager!
Visas Impacted by the CSOL
Skills in Demand (SID) Visa
- On 7 December 2024, the Skills in Demand (SID) Visa will replace the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Subclass 482 visa. The CSOL will guide eligibility for the Core Skills Stream of this visa, offering a more flexible pathway for temporary skilled workers.
- SID visa is expected to retain the โSubclass 482′, however, it introduces a three-tiered system for applicants with pathway to PR:
- Core Skills Pathway: For occupations on the new Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), with a minimum annual salary threshold (TSMIT) of AU$73,150 + Super ย
- Essential Skills Pathway: Targeting many important occupations with salaries below the salary threshold (TSMIT) AU$73,150 + Super; more details awaited by the Department.
- Specialist Skills Pathway: For high income professionals earning over AU$135,000 plus Super per annum, offering a priority processing and no occupation restriction; more details awaited by the Department.
PS: No news yet on the 2 years to 1 reduction of Time of Decision (ToD) relevant employment criteria for the 482 visa soon to be replaced by the SID visa
Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
New Core Skills Occupation List to apply also to Employer Nomination Scheme SC186-Direct Entry stream: The new CSOL will also apply to the Direct Entry stream of the permanent Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa. This will expand access to PR pathway to all the 456 occupations listed within the new CSOL.
National Innovation Visa (NIV) is also expected to replace Global Talent Visa (GT) visa starting 7 December 2024
The government has announced that more information on the Skills in Demand Visa and the introduction of the National Innovation Visa. National Innovation Visa (NIV) is expected to replace Global Talent Visa (GT) visa starting 7 December 2024.
PS: Kindly note that legislative changes are still awaited to support these changes and announcements made by the Department.
Whatโs Next
All of these changes (potentially more) are expected to be implemented in the legislation by 7 Dec 2024 and we are awaiting this eagerly.
However, there are expected to be more updates and announcements to follow, which Immigration Hotspot Team are keeping an eye out for and will update further accordingly.
It is critical for Australian Employers and potential SID visa applicants to understand how these changes may impact their current or future sponsorship strategy.
Summary:
In a nutshell, the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) represents a significant shift in Australiaโs skilled migration framework, streamlining access to 456 high-demand occupations. This simplified approach will facilitate smoother visa applications and align migration pathways with current workforce needs. With its implementation on 7 December 2024, the CSOL is set to enhance Australiaโs economic growth by attracting skilled professionals. Further details on the Skills in Demand Visa and National Innovation Visa are expected soon.
Are you an Australian Employer wanting tailored advice?
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Looking to apply for the new Skills in Demand (SID) Visa?
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Thank you for patience whilst we navigate through these critical changes in this short period and assist you further in the best way possible.
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[…] The CSOL has been significantly broadened to include 456 occupations, up from the previous 200+. This expansion provides skilled migrants with greater access to employer-sponsored visas, such as the SID Visa and the 186 Direct Entry Visa, across a wider range of industries. Read More: Australia launches Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) and New Skills In Demand (SID) Visa […]