Australia has always been an attractive destination for skilled professionals from all over the world due to its strong economy, high standard of living, and diverse job opportunities. This presents an interesting opportunity not only for those who want to grow their careers but also for individuals looking forward to enjoying life benefits in a country with one of the highest qualities of living.
Looking ahead to 2024, the demand for skilled professionals in Australia is projected to grow exponentially, creating a promising outlook for individuals seeking career advancement and new opportunities.
According to the Australian Government’s Employment Outlook, Over the five years to February 2022, employment increased by 1,322,000 (or 11.0 per cent), or 2.1 per cent per annum, above the rate of growth recorded over the last decade (of 1.7 per cent); which is quite significant.
This growth has been attributed to factors such as technological advancements, economic expansion and growing population among others.
For Instance, Let us Consider the Healthcare Industry as Our Case Study.
Australia has always been an attractive destination for skilled professionals from all over the world due to its strong economy, high standard of living, and diverse job opportunities. This presents an interesting opportunity not only for those who want to grow their careers but also for individuals looking forward to enjoying life benefits in a country with one of the highest qualities of living.
Looking ahead to 2024, the demand for skilled professionals in Australia is projected to grow exponentially, creating a promising outlook for individuals seeking career advancement and new opportunities.
According to the Australian Government’s employment outlook, Over the five years to February 2022, employment increased by 1,322,000 (or 11.0 per cent), or 2.1 per cent per annum, above the rate of growth recorded over the last decade (of 1.7 per cent); which is quite significant.
This growth has been attributed to factors such as technological advancements, economic expansion and a growing population among others.
It is projected that there will be more than 113,500 additional jobs created within this sector. Therefore, this provides excellent prospects not only for highly qualified medical practitioners like doctors and nurses but also for allied health professionals who can contribute towards Australia’s healthcare system development.
In this article, we will read into why there is growing demand and what are some key sectors that will support it.
What is the New Australia Skills in Demand Visa In 2024?
The new Australia Skills in Demand Visa, also known as the Subclass 124 visa is a program that was created to bring skilled workers with specific skills needed by the Australian economy to work and live in Australia. The focus of this visa is to tackle labor shortages in the key sectors of the economy, and it gives the chance for individuals to move to Australia permanently.
For instance, consider a highly skilled software engineer who specializes in artificial intelligence.
Australia has been experiencing an increasing need for professionals in the technology sector and developer skills are among those highly demanded. Through the new Australia Skills in Demand Visa, they can apply for permanent residency in Australia to be able to help advance its technology while enjoying the living benefits of being part of a diverse and vibrant community.
The Following Sectors have been Identified by the Australian Labor Market as High-Demand Sectors up Until 2024:
Based on current forecasts, there will be many job openings across several industries between now and 2024. Let’s take a closer look at these key sectors and what kind of jobs they are expected to create:
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In addition, the link between these sectors and Australia’s occupation ceilings is essential to those individuals who are trying to secure skilled migration visas. But what are occupation Ceilings?
What are Occupation Ceilings?
Occupation ceilings play a vital role in Australia in managing skilled migration and aligning it with the country’s labour market needs. These predetermined visa invitation limits for specific occupations are key in ensuring a balanced migration program.
1. Significance of Occupation Ceilings
Occupation ceilings help to control the inflow of skilled migrants into Australia. The limits are set based on labor market analysis and skill shortages which will help prioritize occupations that are in high demand and regulate overall skilled migration programs.
The occupation ceilings for the migration year have been set according to the most recent data as follows:
- Accountants: 4,885 invitations
- IT Professionals (Software and Applications Programmers): 2,722 invitations
- Engineers (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical): 1,500-2,500 invitations each
2. Determining Occupation Ceilings
Occupation ceilings are set by a comprehensive analysis of a variety of factors, such as labor force projections, employment trends, and industry needs. For instance, the occupation ceiling for Software and Applications Programmers is set based on the forecasted demand for IT professionals in the country.
3. Transparency and Accessibility
The Department of Home Affairs makes available to prospective migrants the occupation ceilings annually to enhance transparency. This visibility gives individuals the chance to gauge their eligibility and the likelihood of being invited to apply for a skilled visa based on their chosen occupation.
4. Impact on Migration Strategy
Understanding occupation ceilings is key in planning migration strategies effectively for intending migrants. For example, aspiring migrants may concentrate on occupations that have not yet reached their ceiling so as to maximize their chances of receiving an invitation.
5. Monitoring Occupation Ceilings
Prospective migrants should remain informed about updates on occupation ceilings throughout the year. The limits can change due to shifts in labour market needs; therefore it is important to check regularly for updates when strategically planning visa applications.
Australia’s Top Jobs in Demand in 2024-25
Here are the details on top jobs in demand in Australia for 2024-25 and the number of job openings:
1. Registered Nurses
- Job Openings (2024-25): 34,000
Registered Nurses are a key workforce in healthcare service delivery, including patient care, treatment coordination and health education. The nursing force is still needed as Australia has an ageing population and also continues to have ongoing healthcare needs.
2. Software and Applications Programmers
- Job Openings (2024-25): 197,100
Software and Applications Programmers develop, test, and maintain software applications and systems. With the rapid growth of the IT industry, there is a growing need for skilled programmers across various industries.
3. Aged and Disabled Carers
- Job Openings (2024-25): 234600
Aged and Disabled Carers provide essential support to elderly and disabled individuals helping with daily activities, personal care and companionship. Demand for carers is driven by Australia’s aging population needing quality aged care services.
4. Child Carers
- Job Openings (2024-25): 86900
Child Carers or Childcare Workers are responsible for nurturing and supervising children in childcare centres, preschools or private households. The demand for childcare professionals is affected by population growth as well as workforce participation rates.
5. Electricians
- Job Openings (2024-25): 8900
Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems/equipment in residential/commercial/industrial settings. The demand for electricians is being driven by construction/infrastructure projects all over Australia.
6. Carpenters and Joiners
- Estimated Job Openings (2024-25): 138,000
Carpenters and Joiners are involved in the construction, installation and repair of wooden structures and fixtures. The growth of the construction industry is a source of the need for skilled carpenters and joiners for residential and commercial projects.
7. Accountants
- Estimated Job Openings (2024-25): 8,000
Accountants interpret financial information, prepare reports, and give strategic advice to organizations and individuals. Business expansion, regulatory needs and changing financial environments continue to create demand for accountants.
8. Civil Engineering Professionals
- Estimated Job Openings (2024-25): 7,000
Civil Engineering Professionals are in charge of designing, planning, and supervising construction projects such as roads, bridges, infrastructure etc. The demand for civil engineers arises from urbanization processes, population growth as well as infrastructure renewal work.
Eligibility Requirements for Skilled Independent Visa in Australia
Here are the key eligibility requirements and some illustrative examples to provide a better understanding:
1. Occupation Skills Lists and Skills Assessment:
Applicants must have an occupation listed on the relevant Skilled Occupation List and undergo a skills assessment. For instance, a software engineer who wants to apply for a Subclass 189 Visa should have his/her qualifications and work experience assessed by the relevant authorities like the Australian Computer Society.
2. Expression of Interest (EOI) and Point-Based System:
Candidates must submit an EOI through the SkillSelect system, aiming to reach a minimum of 65 points. For example, a 33-year-old applicant with proficient English language skills, a bachelor’s degree (15 points), and 8 years of work experience in their nominated occupation (15 points) would meet the minimum point requirement.
3. Age, English Language Proficiency, and Health Checks:
Applicants must be under 45 years of age, demonstrate English language proficiency, and meet health and character requirements. For instance, a 40-year-old accountant demonstrating English language proficiency through an approved test and meeting the health and character standards would fulfil these specific criteria.
4. Invitation and Permanent Residency:
Upon receiving an invitation to apply, applicants must lodge a complete visa application within the specified timeframe. An invitation indicates the Australian government’s interest in the applicant’s skills and signifies the pathway to permanent residency.
How to Apply for Professional Skilled Migration to Australia?
If you are considering moving to Australia as a skilled migrant, you must know the application process. Here is a guide on how to apply for professional skilled migration to Australia:
1. Check Your Eligibility:
The first step is assessing if you meet the requirements of skilled migration. There is a list of skilled occupations in Australia, and your occupation should be included and satisfy the specified criteria.
2. Skills Assessment:
Once you have confirmed that you are eligible, you will need to get your skills assessed by the relevant assessing authority. This is necessary so that your qualifications and work experience match Australian standards.
3. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI):
After receiving a positive skills assessment, you will need to submit an EOI through the online SkillSelect system. It is an electronic form where you enter details about your skills, qualifications and interest in migrating to Australia.
4. Receive an Invitation:
Based on the information provided in your EOI, the Australian government will decide whether you qualify for skilled migration or not. If you meet all the criteria and your occupation is in demand, an invitation to apply for a visa will be given to you.
5. Lodge Your Visa Application:
Once an invitation has been received, it will be necessary for you to lodge a visa application within the stipulated time frame. This involves filling out the required forms, providing supporting documents and paying applicable visa fees.
6. Visa Processing and Decision:
Upon submission of your application, The Department of Home Affairs will assess your application and verify all provided information. This process may take several months with a written notification of their decision at the end.
7. Prepare for Migration:
If successful with the visa application process, a grant letter of visa would be sent to the applicant so that he/she can begin planning his/her move into Australia which includes arranging travel accommodation etc.
Conclusion
The growing economy of Australia is contributing to the increasing demand for professionals with skills in the country. For skilled professionals looking for new opportunities and a high standard of living, Australia is a country to consider in 2024 and beyond. To get personalized guidance on migration and visa opportunities to Australia, contact Ausyes Migration today.
Also Read: Who is Eligible for Skilled Migration in Australia?
