Three construction workers in safety vests and helmets discussing plans at a worksite during sunset, representing Australia’s demand for skilled workers under the new Skills in Demand visa, which replaces the Temporary Skills Shortage visa.
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Australia’s Skills in Demand visa replaces the Temporary Skills Shortage visa

ByCameron Gray

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On 7 December 2024, Australia will introduce the Skills in Demand (SID) visa, which will replace the Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482). This change is part of a strategy to align skilled migration with current workforce needs.

What’s new about the Skills in Demand visa

The Skills in Demand visa includes three streams to meet different workforce requirements:

  1. Specialist skills stream: For workers earning AUD 135,000 or more annually.
  2. Core skills stream: For workers in occupations listed on the new Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), with salaries between AUD 73,150 and AUD 135,000. The CSOL is updated regularly to reflect labour market needs.
  3. Essential skills stream: For workers earning less than AUD 73,150 annually, focusing on sectors like aged care and disability support.

What is the Core Skills Occupation List?

A significant change is the introduction of the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), replacing the previous occupation lists used for TSS visa applications. The CSOL will focus on roles critical to Australia’s economy and is managed by Jobs and Skills Australia, which will update it regularly to keep pace with workforce needs. 

What happens to current TSS visa holders?

Current TSS visa holders will not be affected immediately and can continue working under their existing visas until they expire. After 7 December 2024, all new applications must follow the new rules under the Skills in Demand visa. 

Next steps

The Skills in Demand visa introduces updated eligibility rules and a new occupation list. This may create new opportunities for some migrants while tightening criteria for others. Employers will need to ensure the roles they sponsor meet the updated requirements.

If you’d like to know how these changes might affect your situation, our licensed immigration advisers are here to help. Contact VisaAide today for advice tailored to your needs.

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