Employers invited to comment on changes to skilled migration occupation lists

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? The Department of Employment has opened a public consultation requesting feedback from employers and other immigration stakeholders on possible changes to the skilled migration occupation lists.

What does the change mean? The Department has published a traffic light bulletin indicating the occupations under consideration for change, as well as those flagged for no change. The public comment period closes 1 December 2017, and comments will be taken into consideration before the changes are finalised.

• Implementation timeframe: Now until 1 December.
• Visas/permits affected: Temporary and permanent skilled migration categories, including Subclass 457, Temporary Skills Shortage visa (beginning March 2018), Employer Nomination Scheme, Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme.
• Who is affected: Australian companies sponsoring skilled foreign workers.
• Business impact: Currently, several changes to the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) are under consideration; there are no proposed changes to the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
• Next steps: Companies and individuals who may be impacted by the changes should submit comments through the online form.   

Background: The proposed changes include removing four occupations from the STSOL and adding five occupations to the STSOL. The four occupations considered for possible removal are: Accommodation and Hospitality Manager, Hair or Beauty Salon Manager, Recruitment Consultant, and Building Associate. The five occupations considered for addition to the list are: University Tutor, Psychotherapist, Property Manager, Real Estate Agent, and Real Estate Representative.

BAL Analysis: BAL encourages employers to review the traffic light bulletin and submit comments to make their concerns known to the Department and to help shape the occupation lists that determine eligibility for skilled workers. BAL can assist in the process.

This alert has been provided by BAL Australia. For additional information, please contact australia@bal.com.

MARN: 0101248

Copyright © 2017 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.