The New Skills in Demand Visa, to replace the Temporary Skill Shortage Subclass 482 visa
Australia’s migration system is poised for a significant overhaul with the upcoming Skills in Demand visa, set to replace the Temporary Skill Shortage (Subclass 482) visa by the end of 2024. This new visa is designed to enhance Australia’s ability to attract skilled talent from around the world. Among the three distinct pathways within this new visa framework, the Core Skills Pathway plays a crucial role in addressing Australia’s medium-level skill requirements.
What Is the Core Skills Pathway?
The Core Skills Pathway is one of the three streams under the new Skills in Demand visa, which introduces a modern approach to skilled migration. Unlike its predecessor, the Core Skills Pathway does not depend on a rigid skilled occupation list. Instead, it uses a more flexible system to identify and address medium-level skill shortages across various industries. This pathway is aimed at attracting professionals who fall between the high-end specialists and those in essential roles, providing a balanced solution to Australia’s evolving workforce needs.
Key Features of the Core Skills Pathway:
1. Updated Skills List: Unlike the Specialist Skills Pathway, which operates without a fixed occupation list, the Core Skills Pathway relies on a regularly updated Core Skills Occupation list managed by Jobs and Skills Australia. This list helps ensure that the pathway remains responsive to current labor market demands. Occupations included in this list are those where there is a demonstrated need for skilled workers, but which do not necessarily require the high salary threshold of the Specialist Skills Pathway.
2. Minimum Salary Threshold: Applicants for the Core Skills Pathway must earn between $70,000 and $135,000 AUD annually. This salary range reflects the pathway’s focus on medium-level skilled positions. By setting this earnings threshold, Australia ensures that the visa attracts skilled professionals who contribute significantly to the economy, though not at the high levels required for the Specialist Skills Pathway. This balanced approach helps address a broad range of skill needs while still prioritizing high-value roles.
3. Processing Time: The Core Skills Pathway offers a streamlined processing experience, although not as rapid as the Specialist Skills Pathway. While specific processing times are yet to be confirmed, the overall aim is to provide efficient and timely processing to support Australia’s labor market needs. This efficiency will help ensure that skilled professionals can enter the Australian workforce without unnecessary delays.
The Core Skills Pathway is a vital component of Australia’s new migration strategy. By using a dynamic skills list and focusing on a broad salary range, this pathway addresses medium-level skill shortages that are critical to many sectors. For example, it will facilitate the entry of skilled tradespeople, technical experts, and mid-level managers who play a key role in supporting various industries. This approach helps ensure that Australia can meet its current and future labor market needs effectively.
The Core Skills Pathway is part of a broader three-tiered system under the Skills in Demand visa:
– Tier 1: Specialist Skills Pathway – Focuses on high-earning specialists with no occupation list restrictions, requiring a minimum salary of $135,000 and offering a 7-day processing time.
– Tier 2: Core Skills Pathway – Targets occupations with earnings between $70,000 and $135,000, based on a regularly updated skills list managed by Jobs and Skills Australia.
– Tier 3: Essential Skills Pathway – For essential skill occupations earning below $70,000, with details still under review.
Each tier of the Skills in Demand visa addresses different levels of skill requirements and sectors, creating a comprehensive framework to meet Australia’s diverse workforce needs.
GET IN TOUCH with our team of migration professionals if you have any questions regarding the new Skills in Demand Visa
