Navigating Australian immigration can be complex, especially for those applying through skilled visa pathways. Choosing the right occupation can be crucial as it relate directly to your skill assessment, visa eligibility, and more.
What is ANZSCO?
ANZSCO stands for the “Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations”. It provides a framework for analysing and defining the job requirements in both Australia and New Zealand and is widely used by immigration authorities to assess visa applicants’ qualifications.
Each occupation listed in ANZSCO includes a description, tasks, required skills, and qualifications, ensuring immigration authorities have a standard reference for job roles and duties.
For Australian skilled visa applicants, ANZSCO plays a vital role. Skilled visa programs require that an applicant’s occupation aligns with one listed on Australia’s skilled occupation lists (currently the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (“MLTSSL”), Short-term Skilled Occupation List (“STSOL”) or the Regional Occupation List (“ROL”)), all of which rely on ANZSCO codes.
The ANZSCO has been jointly managed by Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) and Stats NZ Tatauranga Aotearoa (Stats NZ) since it was first published in 2006.
What is OSCA?
OSCA, or the “Occupational Skills Classification Australia”, will be released on Friday 6 December 2024. It has been designed by the Australian Department of Employment and Workplace Relations to provide a more current and accurate classification of Australian job roles by modernising and refining ANZSCO’s framework.
How are they different?
Unlike ANZSCO, which places jobs within a hierarchical structure, OSCA adopts a skills-based framework that focuses on the core competencies required to perform a job rather than strictly on qualifications. It’s designed to better capture jobs in emerging sectors, such as tech and green energy, where traditional qualifications may not align directly with the job skills required.
The shift from ANZSCO to OSCA represents a response to evolving industry needs. With many occupations emerging that do not fit neatly into ANZSCO’s traditional categories, the OSCA system allows for a more flexible, skill-focused approach. This change will likely impact how visa applicants are assessed, particularly those in high-demand, emerging fields.
Key Takeaways for Visa Applicants and Employers
For employers, especially those in tech, healthcare, and other fast-growing sectors, OSCA could mean greater ease in finding qualified international talent, as it aligns more closely with practical skills and on-the-job competencies.
For visa applicants, understanding which classification system applies to your occupation is crucial.
As OSCA continues to roll out, it’s essential to check for updates from the Department of Home Affairs and consult professionals who are familiar with both ANZSCO and OSCA.
If you would like to speak with the professionals about how these changes will affect you, get it touch with the professionals at KU Legal:
+61 (0) 429 133 911
jb@kulegal.com.au
Disclaimer: Changes to the Australian migration program can occur without notice. The above information is not intended to be legal advice and is correct as of the date of publication.
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