Australia’s skilled migration system is set for an update. The Department of Home Affairs has announced that Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) will soon begin consultations to review the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), a critical component of the country’s employer-sponsored migration framework. 

This review is a vital opportunity for employers and industry stakeholders to provide feedback and ensure that the skilled occupations eligible for visa pathways align with Australia’s current and future workforce needs. 

What is the Core Skills Occupation List? 

The CSOL plays a central role in skilled migration, determining which occupations are eligible for: 

• The Core Skills stream of the Subclass 482 Skills in Demand visa 
• The Direct Entry stream of the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa 

These programs allow businesses to sponsor overseas workers to fill genuine workforce shortages in critical roles when suitable local talent cannot be found. 

How the CSOL Review Impacts You 

With ongoing workforce shortages across many industries, this review is more than just an administrative update. It is a strategic moment for employers to influence which roles remain eligible for sponsorship. 

The DHA has emphasised that the CSOL must stay responsive to evolving labour market needs. The review is designed to ensure skilled migration settings remain effective and that Australian businesses can access the international talent they need to grow. 

The outcome of this process could directly affect: 

• Recruitment strategies
• Workforce planning
• Long-term access to skilled migration pathways

What to Know as an Employer

JSA will soon release details on the consultation process through its website, outlining opportunities for employers and industry groups to provide feedback. 

Employers are strongly encouraged to: 

• Prepare submissions highlighting which occupations are most critical to their business or industry 
• Engage with the consultation process to ensure sector-specific skill demands are represented 
• Plan strategically, as the outcome may determine which occupations remain open for sponsorship in the years ahead 

Active participation in this consultation process is key. Decisions made during this review will shape the future of employer-sponsored migration and directly impact industries experiencing acute skill shortages, including: 

• Health 
• Technology 
• Construction 
• Regional and essential services 

By contributing feedback, employers can help ensure migration pathways remain relevant and accessible, supporting both business continuity and Australia’s broader workforce strategy. 

How AVIE Can Help 

At Australian Visa & Immigration Experts (AVIE), we work closely with businesses to navigate Australia’s skilled migration system. Our team develops tailored migration strategies to ensure employers remain well-prepared. 

Contact us today to discuss how we can support your skilled migration strategy.