Australia Updates Skilled Occupation List for 2012

The Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) on June 13, 2012 published the updated Skilled Occupation List (SOL) for 2012 which features 4 new occupations and 4 occupations to be removed. The updated SOL is based on expert advice from the independent body, Skills Australia. The updated SOL for 2012 comprises 192 high value occupations in Australia, with 4 new occupations to be added and 4 occupations to be removed. The additions to the SOL include Production Manager (Mining), Metallurgist, Optometrist, Computer Network and Systems Engineer. 4 occupations that are removed are: Chemist, Audiologist, Bricklayer and Wall and Floor Tiler. The updated SOL will be effective on July 1, 2012. It will apply to all newindependent (unsponsored) and family sponsored skilled visa applications lodged on or after 1 July 2012 unless they are from applicants eligible for transitional arrangements. DIAC will continue to process applications lodged before July 1, 2012 with a nominated occupation that is no longer on the SOL in effect from July 1, 2012. Priority processing arrangements may however change for certain applicants according to the Ministerial Direction on priority processing. The SOL determines which occupations are eligible for independent or unsponsored skilled migration. The SOL is reviewed by Skills Australia on an annual basis in order to ensure that it meets the needs of the Australian labour market, and to make sure the migration program is responsive to economic conditions and skills needs. If you are interested in Australian visas, contact Migration Expert for information and advice on which visa is best suited to you. You can also try our visa eligibility assessment to see if you are eligible to apply for a visa to Australia.