Key Points
- New Core Skills Occupation List (SCOL): Over 70 new occupations were added, while categories such as ICT support engineers and graphic designers were removed
- Labour Market Testing: Requirements for labor market testing have been simplified to improve efficiency
- Immigration Process Simplification: System-wide reforms introduced to streamline immigration procedures
- New Skills Agency: A new agency will oversee skills needs assessments
- Points-Based System: A new points system will guide permanent skilled migration pathways
Overview
In 2025, Australia will implement key immigration reforms to enhance efficiency, address labor shortages, and support its economic goals. One of the most notable updates is the introduction of a revised Core Skills Occupation List (SCOL), which now includes over 70 new occupations aligned with market demands. However, specific categories, such as ICT support engineers and graphic designers, have been removed, reflecting evolving priorities in Australia’s skilled workforce needs.
The government has also simplified Labor Market Testing (LMT) requirements to reduce administrative burdens for employers while ensuring fair recruitment practices. These changes make it easier for businesses to demonstrate the need to hire foreign workers when filling local skill gaps.
Additionally, new system-wide improvements have been introduced to streamline immigration processes, making them more efficient and transparent. A newly established skills agency will play a crucial role in identifying emerging workforce needs and ensuring that immigration policies are aligned with Australia’s economic priorities.
A new points-based system will guide permanent skilled migration, aiming to provide clearer pathways for highly qualified foreign workers seeking long-term residency in Australia. This system will likely evaluate applicants based on factors such as work experience, education, and sector-specific skills.
Visa Application Fees
The government has clarified the updated visa application fees:
- Primary applicants must pay a base fee of $3,115
- Dependents aged 18 and over incur an additional $3,115
- Applicants under 18 pay a reduced fee of $780
These fees are applicable across the Specialist Skills and Core Skills visa streams, reflecting a standardized approach to processing costs.
Looking Ahead
Australia’s 2025 immigration reforms signal a commitment to attracting skilled talent while improving the efficiency of its migration system. Employers should review the updated Core Skills Occupation List (SCOL) and take note of the streamlined labor market testing requirements to ensure compliance when hiring foreign workers.
Understanding the new points-based system and associated visa fees is crucial for applicants to navigate the skilled migration process. Establishing a skills agency suggests that ongoing adjustments to the SCOL may occur as Australia responds to labor market trends.
These updates underline Australia’s proactive approach to managing its skilled workforce needs while maintaining transparent and efficient immigration processes. Applicants and businesses should stay informed about future changes to maximize their success under the updated framework.
