Australia is navigating persistent shortages in key professions—from civil engineering and healthcare to emerging tech roles. For skilled migrants and sponsoring businesses, pinpointing these gaps can mean the difference between a delayed application and a fast-tracked visa grant. The Skill Shortage Australia List, maintained by the National Skills Commission, highlights the occupations where expertise is most urgently needed.
Built on the Commission’s rigorous Skills Priority List Methodology, this list blends labour market forecasts with industry consultation to identify roles in genuine shortfall. Aligning your application with these in-demand occupations can unlock clearer visa streams, priority processing and stronger employer sponsorship opportunities.
At Simon Mander Consulting P/L, we’ve translated this data into a detailed occupation guide designed to bolster your migration strategy. In the sections that follow, you’ll find a deep dive into the top ten roles—covering job overviews, ANZSCO classifications, skills assessment pathways, visa options, qualification criteria and expert tips to strengthen your application.
1. Civil Engineer (ANZSCO Code: 233211)
Civil engineers design, plan and oversee the construction of essential infrastructure—bridges, roads, water systems and urban developments. In Australia, major federal and state projects combined with rapid population growth have placed civil engineering roles in high demand. According to National Skills Commission forecasts, shortages persist nationwide, especially in growing metropolitan hubs and regional corridors where new transport and utilities capacity is needed.
ANZSCO Classification
The ANZSCO code 233211 groups professionals who undertake feasibility studies, detailed design, cost estimation and site supervision. This classification requires a bachelor’s degree or higher and covers tasks such as structural analysis, risk assessment, drafting technical reports and coordinating multidisciplinary teams.
Skills Assessment Authority
Your skills assessment must come from Engineers Australia via their Migration Skills Assessment process. They compare your academic record and employment history against Australian benchmarks. Graduates of Washington Accord–accredited programs receive direct recognition, while others submit a Competency Demonstration Report (CDR) showcasing your engineering competencies.
Visa Pathways
Civil engineers have access to multiple visa streams:
- Skilled Independent (subclass 189): points-tested, no sponsor needed.
- Skilled Nominated (subclass 190): adds state-nomination bonus points.
- Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491): region-focused with provisional status.
- Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186): permanent residence via employer sponsorship.
- Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482): short- to medium-term placement under an employer.
Each option varies by points thresholds, occupation ceilings and nomination conditions, so choose based on your profile and career goals.
Qualifications Required
Essential credentials include:
- Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering (or equivalent).
- Accreditation under the Washington Accord for direct entry.
- For non-Accord degrees, a successful CDR submission to Engineers Australia.
Preferred Work Experience
To stand out:
- Provide at least three years of post-qualification engineering practice.
- Highlight roles in large-scale infrastructure or urban development.
- Showcase leadership on site and proficiency with design tools like AutoCAD or BIM software.
2. Electrician (General) (ANZSCO Code: 341111)
Electricians install, maintain and repair electrical wiring, fixtures and control equipment across residential, commercial and industrial sites. Australia’s ongoing construction surge and accelerated rollout of renewable energy infrastructure—solar farms, wind turbines and electric vehicle charging networks—have driven a nationwide shortage of qualified electricians. The National Skills Commission forecasts persistent shortfalls in every state and territory, making this role a top target for skilled migrants.
ANZSCO Classification
The ANZSCO code 341111 covers general electricians who:
- Read and interpret electrical diagrams and blueprints
- Install wiring, switchboards and control systems
- Test circuits and troubleshoot faults
- Comply with safety regulations and Australian Standards
This classification sits at Skill Level 3, requiring post-secondary vocational training and demonstrated competence in electrical trade tasks.
Skills Assessment Authority
Your trade credentials must be recognised by Trades Recognition Australia (TRA). The TRA pathway involves:
- Submission of your Certificate III in Electrotechnology (Electrician) or equivalent overseas qualification
- Evidence of an Australian-style apprenticeship or formal overseas training
- A technical interview or practical assessment to verify your hands-on skills
Once TRA confirms your qualification meets Australian benchmarks, you’ll receive a skills assessment essential for most visa applications.
Visa Pathways
Qualified electricians can explore several visa options:
- Skilled Independent (subclass 189): points-tested, no sponsorship
- Skilled Nominated (subclass 190): state or territory nomination adds 5 points
- Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491): provisional regional pathway with nomination
- Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186): permanent residence via employer sponsorship
- Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482):
• Short-term stream (2 years) for STSOL occupations
• Medium-term stream (4 years) for MLTSSL occupations—general electricians qualify here and can transition to permanent residency
Each stream has its own points thresholds, occupation ceilings and nomination conditions, so matching your profile to the right pathway is key.
Qualifications Required
To apply as a general electrician under ANZSCO 341111, you’ll need:
- Certificate III in Electrotechnology (Electrician) or an approved overseas equivalent
- Completion of an Australian apprenticeship or TRA recognition of your trade
- Proof of familiarity with Australian wiring codes and work health and safety regulations
Preferred Work Experience
Stand out by demonstrating:
- At least three years’ experience in commercial or industrial electrical roles
- Proficiency with local regulations such as AS/NZS 3000 (the Wiring Rules)
- Hands-on experience installing renewable energy systems, switchgear or advanced control panels
Showcasing your ability to lead small teams, work independently and adapt to new technologies will strengthen your skills assessment and visa application.
3. Software Engineer (ANZSCO Code: 261313)
Software engineers play a pivotal role in developing, testing and maintaining applications that power everything from mobile apps to enterprise systems. Australia’s rapid digital transformation, surge in cloud adoption and heightened focus on cybersecurity have left businesses scrambling for qualified developers. According to the National Skills Commission, vacancies for ANZSCO 261313 remain at record highs, particularly in tech hubs like Sydney, Melbourne and increasingly in regional centres seeking remote-capable talent.
ANZSCO Classification
The ANZSCO code 261313 covers professionals who:
- Analyse user requirements and design software solutions
- Write, test and debug code using languages such as Java, Python or C#
- Document system specifications and maintain version control
- Collaborate with stakeholders, quality assurance testers and infrastructure teams
This occupation sits at Skill Level 1, reflecting the need for a bachelor’s degree and demonstrated expertise in end-to-end software development lifecycles.
Skills Assessment Authority
Your technical credentials must be assessed by the Australian Computer Society (ACS). Their Migration Skills Assessment evaluates:
- Academic qualifications: a recognised bachelor’s (or higher) in Software Engineering, Computer Science or closely related discipline
- Professional experience: typically a minimum of two years’ employment in a relevant role, verified by detailed reference letters
- Alternative pathways: if your degree isn’t a close match, you may submit an ACS Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) to demonstrate competency
You can begin the process on the ACS migration page: https://www.acs.org.au/migrants.html
Visa Pathways
Software engineers can choose from multiple visa streams:
- Skilled Independent (subclass 189) – points-tested and does not require employer or state sponsorship
- Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) – adds 5 nomination points from a state or territory
- Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) – provisional 5-year visa focused on regional areas, with nomination
- Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) – permanent residency via direct employer sponsorship
- Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) –
• Short-term stream (2 years) for STSOL occupations
• Medium-term stream (4 years) for MLTSSL occupations, with a pathway to permanent residency
Each option has distinct points thresholds and nomination requirements, so align your choice with your experience, location preference and long-term goals.
Qualifications Required
To qualify under ANZSCO 261313, you’ll need:
- Bachelor’s degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science or a comparable field
- If your degree falls outside listed disciplines, a successful RPL submission illustrating equivalent learning and work achievements
Additional certifications—such as AWS Certified Developer or Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate—can strengthen your profile, though they are not mandatory.
Preferred Work Experience
Highlighting hands-on achievements can give you an edge:
- A minimum of two years developing production-grade software in mainstream languages (Java, Python, C#, JavaScript)
- Experience with agile frameworks (Scrum, Kanban) and tools like Jira or Trello
- Familiarity with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure or Google Cloud) and containerisation (Docker, Kubernetes)
- Contributions to code repositories (GitHub/GitLab) or open-source projects, showcasing collaborative development skills
By emphasising these competencies in your ACS application and visa documentation, you’ll demonstrate clear alignment with Australia’s in-demand digital priorities.
4. Secondary School Teacher (ANZSCO Code: 241411)
Teaching at the secondary level goes beyond lecturing—teachers shape the critical thinking, creativity and subject mastery of students aged roughly 12 to 18. Australia faces a notable shortage of secondary school teachers, especially in regional and rural communities and in high-need subjects such as mathematics, sciences and languages. With population growth in outer suburbs and regional centres, demand for qualified educators continues to outpace supply, making this role a prime opportunity for skilled migrants.
ANZSCO Classification
The code 241411 covers secondary school teachers who plan, deliver and evaluate curriculum across one or more subjects. This classification requires a bachelor’s degree (with a major in the teaching subject or Education) and covers tasks including lesson planning, student assessment, classroom management and participation in school-wide activities like parent–teacher meetings.
Skills Assessment Authority
Teacher eligibility in Australia is overseen by the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL). To gain your skills assessment, you must:
- Hold a recognised undergraduate degree in Education (secondary) or in your chosen subject plus a postgraduate teaching qualification.
- Complete an approved teacher preparation program (often a Graduate Diploma or Master of Teaching).
- Meet professional standards through an AITSL-endorsed registration body in your chosen state or territory (for example, the Victorian Institute of Teaching or the NSW Education Standards Authority).
AITSL ensures your qualifications and experience align with Australian benchmarks, paving the way for full registration and classroom practice.
Visa Pathways
Secondary school teachers can explore several visa streams depending on their circumstances:
- Skilled Independent (subclass 189) – points-tested, no employer required.
- Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) – adds 5 points through state or territory nomination, with occasional subject-specific caveats.
- Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) – a provisional pathway emphasising regional service and nomination.
- Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) – permanent residency via direct employer sponsorship, often used by schools seeking long-term hires.
Each pathway carries different points thresholds, nomination requirements and residency obligations, so it pays to match your profile with the right option.
Qualifications Required
To qualify under ANZSCO 241411, you’ll need:
- A bachelor’s degree in Education (secondary) or a degree in your specialist subject plus a postgraduate teaching qualification.
- Formal teacher registration with an Australian state or territory authority.
- Demonstrated understanding of the Australian Curriculum and child-safe practices.
Preferred Work Experience
Schools look favourably on candidates who:
- Have at least one year of accredited, full-time teaching experience in a secondary setting.
- Can provide evidence of curriculum design, ongoing student assessment and tailored learning strategies.
- Show adaptability in diverse settings—whether that’s a metropolitan campus or a remote rural school—to support varying student needs.
5. Mechanical Engineer (ANZSCO Code: 233512)
Mechanical engineers design, develop and maintain mechanical systems used in manufacturing plants, resource extraction, energy generation and beyond. Australia’s push for manufacturing modernisation—upgrading factories with automation—and the transition to renewable energy equipment, like wind turbines and solar tracking systems, have placed mechanical engineering roles squarely on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List.
ANZSCO Classification
Under ANZSCO code 233512, mechanical engineers are professionals responsible for:
- Conducting feasibility studies and technical research
- Designing mechanical components, machinery and integrated systems
- Performing stress analysis, thermodynamics and fluid dynamics calculations
- Overseeing installation, commissioning and performance testing
This occupation sits at Skill Level 1, requiring a bachelor’s degree or higher, and covers tasks from conceptual design through to project handover.
Skills Assessment Authority
Your skills assessment must be undertaken by Engineers Australia through their Migration Skills Assessment program. They evaluate:
- Academic credentials from Washington Accord–accredited or equivalent degrees
- Evidence of professional practice, including detailed role descriptions and referees
- Competency Demonstration Reports (CDR) for non-Accord qualifications
Start your assessment on the Engineers Australia migrants page: https://www.engineersaustralia.org.au/migrants/migration-skills-assessment
Visa Pathways
Mechanical engineers can access multiple visa streams:
- Skilled Independent (subclass 189) – points-tested, no sponsorship needed
- Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) – adds 5 points via state or territory nomination
- Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) – provisional regional visa requiring nomination
- Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) – permanent residency via employer sponsorship
- Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) – medium-term stream (4 years) on the MLTSSL, with a pathway to permanent residence
Each option varies by points thresholds, nomination requirements and occupation ceilings, so choose based on your profile and long-term goals.
Qualifications Required
To qualify under ANZSCO 233512, you’ll need:
- A bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline
- Accreditation under the Washington Accord (or equivalent recognition)
- For non-Accord degrees, a successful CDR submission to Engineers Australia
Preferred Work Experience
Showcase these experiences to strengthen your application:
- At least three years of post-qualification practice in mechanical design, analysis or maintenance
- Involvement in large-scale projects such as production line upgrades or renewable energy installations
- Proficiency with CAD and simulation tools (e.g., SolidWorks, ANSYS) and project management methodologies
By presenting clear evidence of these qualifications and experiences, you’ll position yourself strongly within one of Australia’s enduring skill shortages.
6. Chef (ANZSCO Code: 351311)
Chefs lead kitchen teams, develop menus and uphold food safety across restaurants, hotels and catering services. Post-pandemic tourism recovery and a thriving hospitality sector have driven demand for skilled commercial cooks, pushing ANZSCO code 351311 onto the Skill Shortage Australia List. From fine-dining establishments in capital cities to regional resorts, venues nationwide are vying for qualified chefs to meet customer expectations and regulatory standards.
ANZSCO Classification
The ANZSCO code 351311 groups professionals who:
- Plan, cost and design menus with attention to nutrition and dietary requirements
- Supervise kitchen staff, delegate tasks and streamline food-preparation workflows
- Enforce hygiene practices, comply with food safety regulations and manage stock levels
- Innovate dishes and presentation styles in line with evolving culinary trends
This occupation is at Skill Level 3, requiring post-secondary vocational training and demonstrable competence in high-volume commercial kitchens.
Skills Assessment Authority
Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) assesses chef qualifications through a two-stage process:
- Verification of your Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery or an equivalent overseas credential
- Submission of evidence for at least two years’ full-time work in a commercial cookery role
- Completion of Stage 1 (theoretical) and Stage 2 (practical) assessments to confirm core cooking techniques and kitchen management skills
A positive TRA outcome confirms your trade credentials meet Australian benchmarks, unlocking most skilled-visa pathways.
Visa Pathways
Chefs can pursue multiple skilled-migration visas:
- Skilled Independent (subclass 189) – points-tested, no sponsorship needed
- Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) – adds 5 points via state or territory nomination
- Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) – provisional regional visa requiring nomination
- Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) – permanent residence through employer sponsorship
- Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) – short-term (2 years) and medium-term (4 years) streams, with a pathway to permanent residency
Each stream has unique points thresholds, nomination criteria and duration limits, so matching your profile to the right option is crucial.
Qualifications Required
To qualify under ANZSCO 351311, you must hold:
- Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery, or an overseas equivalent recognised by TRA
- Successful completion of TRA Stage 1 and Stage 2 trade assessments
- Demonstrable knowledge of Australian food safety standards (e.g., Safe Food Australia) and kitchen operations
These credentials satisfy baseline requirements for skills assessment and employer sponsorship.
Preferred Work Experience
Highlighting the following will strengthen your application:
- A minimum of three years in fast-paced commercial kitchens, hotels or resort dining facilities
- Specialisation in areas such as pastry, a la carte service or large-scale event catering
- Proven track record in managing kitchen budgets, negotiating with suppliers and mentoring junior staff
Showcasing these accomplishments in your TRA submission and visa application will align you with Australia’s hospitality workforce needs.
7. Diesel Motor Mechanic (ANZSCO Code: 321212)
Diesel motor mechanics diagnose, repair and maintain diesel engines across transport, mining and agricultural sectors. Australia’s expanding freight networks, large-scale resource projects and farm mechanisation have created persistent shortages—especially in mining regions of Western Australia and Queensland. The complexity of modern diesel technology and the need for rapid turnaround on heavy-vehicle fleets have cemented this role as a top priority on the skills shortage list.
ANZSCO Classification
ANZSCO code 321212 covers specialists who:
- Dismantle, inspect and test engine components
- Repair or replace fuel injection systems, turbochargers and exhaust brakes
- Perform electronic diagnostics via on-board computer systems
- Conduct routine maintenance on trucks, earth-moving machinery and generators
This occupation sits at Skill Level 3, requiring a formal trade qualification and hands-on mechanical expertise.
Skills Assessment Authority
Your skills assessment comes through Trades Recognition Australia (TRA). The TRA process entails:
- Submitting your Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology (or an approved overseas equivalent)
- Providing evidence of an Australian-style apprenticeship or formal trade training
- Completing a practical assessment to verify competence in diesel systems and electronic diagnostics
A positive TRA result is essential for most skilled-visa applications: https://tradesrecognitionaustralia.gov.au
Visa Pathways
Diesel motor mechanics can explore several visa streams:
- Skilled Independent (subclass 189) – points-tested, no sponsorship required
- Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) – adds 5 nomination points via a state or territory
- Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) – provisional regional pathway, ideal for mining and rural postings
- Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) – permanent residence via employer sponsorship
- Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) – short-term (2 years) and medium-term (4 years) streams, with a pathway to permanency
Choosing the right stream depends on your experience level, regional preferences and long-term settlement goals.
Qualifications Required
To qualify under ANZSCO 321212, you must hold:
- Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology or a TRA-approved overseas equivalent
- Completion of an Australian apprenticeship or recognised trade training program
- Demonstrated familiarity with Australian diesel engine servicing standards and safety regulations
Preferred Work Experience
To strengthen your application, showcase:
- A minimum of three years’ full-time experience servicing diesel engines in workshops or field environments
- Proficiency in ECU programming, fault-code analysis and advanced diagnostic techniques
- Hands-on work with heavy machinery—haul trucks, graders, harvesters—common in mining or agriculture
- Ability to manage tight maintenance schedules and deliver reliable, safety-compliant outcomes
8. Carpenter (ANZSCO Code: 331212)
Carpenters are the backbone of Australia’s construction and renovation sectors. From framing the skeleton of a new home to crafting intricate finish work, carpentry roles remain in short supply. A surge in residential builds—especially in outer suburbs—and a booming renovation market in both urban and regional areas means qualified carpenters can command competitive offers and often benefit from accelerated visa processing.
ANZSCO Classification
Under ANZSCO code 331212, carpenters perform tasks such as:
- Reading and interpreting building plans
- Setting out and constructing formwork, frames and roof trusses
- Installing doors, windows, skirting and custom joinery
- Applying finish carpentry techniques and ensuring compliance with Australian Standards
This Skill Level 3 occupation requires a Certificate III in Carpentry (or an approved overseas equivalent) and covers both structural and finishing stages of construction projects.
Skills Assessment Authority
Your trade credentials must be assessed by Trades Recognition Australia. The TRA process involves:
- Submission of your Certificate III in Carpentry or an approved overseas qualification
- Evidence of a completed apprenticeship or equivalent trade training
- A practical assessment—often a site inspection or technical interview—to verify your hands-on skills
A successful TRA outcome confirms you meet Australia’s carpentry benchmarks. Learn more on the Trades Recognition Australia website: https://tradesrecognitionaustralia.gov.au
Visa Pathways
Qualified carpenters can explore multiple skilled-migration streams:
- Skilled Independent (subclass 189) – points-tested, no sponsor required
- Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) – adds 5 points through state or territory nomination
- Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) – provisional, region-focused pathway
- Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) – permanent residence via employer sponsorship
- Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) – short-term stream (2 years) under the STSOL or medium-term stream (4 years) under the MLTSSL, with potential to transition to permanent residency
Each visa has distinct points thresholds, nomination conditions and duration limits. Matching your profile to the right pathway is crucial.
Qualifications Required
To apply under ANZSCO 331212, you must hold:
- Certificate III in Carpentry, or an approved overseas equivalent
- Proof of completion of a recognised apprenticeship or formal trade training
- Evidence of compliance with Australian work health and safety standards
Preferred Work Experience
Highlighting these experiences can strengthen your application:
- At least three years of full-time work in structural framing and finish carpentry
- A portfolio of projects in new builds, renovations or additions
- Specialised skills such as steel framing, heritage restoration or bespoke joinery
- Proficiency in both hand tools and advanced equipment (nail guns, laser levels, power saws)
By demonstrating this mix of qualifications and hands-on experience, you’ll align closely with Australia’s ongoing demand for skilled carpenters.
9. ICT Business Analyst (ANZSCO Code: 261111)
ICT Business Analysts bridge the gap between technical teams and business stakeholders, translating organisational needs into software requirements, process models and data specifications. As companies across finance, healthcare, utilities and government accelerate digital transformation, demand for ANZSCO code 261111 has surged. The National Skills Commission identifies a persistent shortage of professionals who can both map complex workflows and guide development teams, particularly in cloud adoption, enterprise resource planning (ERP) and customer-relationship management (CRM) implementations.
ANZSCO Classification
Under ANZSCO code 261111, ICT Business Analysts are responsible for:
- Eliciting and documenting business requirements through interviews, workshops and surveys
- Developing use cases, process flows (UML, BPMN) and functional specifications
- Liaising with software developers, QA testers and project managers to ensure solutions meet objectives
- Analysing data models, user interfaces and system integrations to optimise performance
This occupation sits at Skill Level 1, reflecting the need for a bachelor’s degree and advanced analytical capabilities.
Skills Assessment Authority
Your skills assessment must be completed by the Australian Computer Society (ACS). They review:
- Your academic qualifications—typically a bachelor’s in ICT, Business Information Systems or a closely related discipline
- Professional experience—minimum two years in a role matching ANZSCO
261111, substantiated by detailed reference letters - If your degree isn’t an exact match, you can lodge an ACS Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) application to demonstrate equivalent competencies
Begin your assessment on the ACS migration page: https://www.acs.org.au/migrants.html
Visa Pathways
ICT Business Analysts can pursue several skilled-migration visas:
- Skilled Independent (subclass 189) – points-tested, no sponsor required
- Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) – adds 5 state-nomination points
- Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) – provisional regional pathway with nomination
- Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) – permanent residence via employer sponsorship
- Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) –
• Short-term stream (2 years) for STSOL occupations
• Medium-term stream (4 years) for MLTSSL occupations, with a pathway to PR
Each pathway carries distinct points thresholds, nomination requirements and employer obligations—select based on your experience, location preference and career objectives.
Qualifications Required
To qualify under ANZSCO 261111, you’ll need:
- A bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Business Information Systems or a closely related field
- If your degree is outside these disciplines, a successful ACS RPL submission demonstrating equivalent learning and work outcomes
Professional certifications—such as CBAP (Certified Business Analysis Professional), PMI-PBA or ITIL—can bolster your application but are not mandatory.
Preferred Work Experience
Highlighting these experiences will strengthen your profile:
- At least two years in a business-analysis role, with evidence of requirement-gathering and process modelling
- Proficiency in UML and BPMN tools (Visio, Lucidchart, Enterprise Architect)
- Experience managing stakeholder engagement across technical and non-technical audiences
- Familiarity with agile and waterfall project methodologies, plus exposure to ERP/CRM implementations
Documenting these achievements in your ACS application and visa submission will position you strongly against Australia’s growing need for skilled ICT Business Analysts.
10. Construction Project Manager (ANZSCO Code: 133111)
Construction project managers steer building projects from concept through completion—overseeing budgets, schedules, contractors and on-site safety. In Australia, large-scale infrastructure initiatives (roads, rail, hospitals) and expanding residential and commercial developments have created a sustained demand for experienced managers. According to the National Skills Commission, vacancies for ANZSCO 133111 remain high across every state and territory, with regional areas particularly keen to attract candidates who can deliver projects on time and on budget.
ANZSCO Classification
The ANZSCO code 133111 covers professionals who:
- Develop and monitor project plans, cost estimates and cash flows
- Manage procurement, subcontractor engagement and contract administration
- Coordinate site safety, quality control and compliance with building codes
- Liaise with architects, engineers and stakeholders to ensure design integrity
This Skill Level 1 occupation requires a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) and substantial project-management expertise in construction contexts.
Skills Assessment Authority
Your skills assessment is handled by VETASSESS, which evaluates:
- Academic credentials in construction management, engineering or related disciplines
- Evidence of project-management experience, including project scopes, budgets and timelines
- Competency against the Construction Project Manager ANZSCO criteria
Begin your assessment on the VETASSESS website: https://www.vetassess.com.au
Visa Pathways
Construction project managers can access several skilled-migration streams:
- Skilled Independent (subclass 189) – points-tested, no sponsor needed
- Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) – adds five nomination points via state or territory
- Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) – provisional regional visa with nomination
- Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) – permanent residence via employer sponsorship
- Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) – typically the medium-term stream with a pathway to permanency
Each pathway has unique points thresholds, nomination requirements and duration limits, so align your choice with your experience and long-term settlement goals.
Qualifications Required
To qualify under ANZSCO 133111, you’ll need:
- A bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying or a related field
- Evidence of professional development—such as certification in project-management frameworks (e.g., PMP, Prince2)
- Accreditation of qualifications and experience via VETASSESS
Preferred Work Experience
Highlighting the following will strengthen your application:
- At least five years managing multi-million-dollar construction projects, including residential, commercial or infrastructure works
- Demonstrated leadership in risk management, stakeholder communication and contract negotiation
- Proficiency with project-management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera) and construction methodologies
By showcasing these qualifications and achievements, you’ll position yourself as a top candidate to fill Australia’s critical need for construction project managers.
Looking Ahead: Planning Your Migration Strategy
Australia’s labour market needs run deep—from engineers and technicians to teachers and chefs. The ten roles we’ve outlined not only reflect where the demand is highest, but also where your skills can translate into a fast-tracked visa and a rewarding career. Whether you’re plotting a move to Sydney’s tech scene or a mining town in Queensland, these occupations open clear pathways.
Your first task is a skills assessment. Engage the right body—Engineers Australia for engineers, TRA for trades, ACS for ICT roles or AITSL for teachers—and compile your qualifications, referees’ statements and detailed work histories. Concurrently, research visa options: weigh the flexibility of the points-tested Skilled Independent (subclass 189) against the security of employer-sponsored streams like subclass 186 or the regional focus of subclass 491. Don’t forget state-nomination programs under subclass 190; those extra five points can make a real difference.
Next comes documentation. Certified copies of your degree or trade certificate, evidence of registration or accreditation, and solid English-language results form the backbone of your application. Supplement these with a concise résumé that highlights quantified achievements—projects delivered, teams led, processes improved. Meticulous organisation at this stage prevents headaches later on.
Every application is unique, and having expert support can be a game-changer. Our team at Simon Mander Consulting specialises in aligning your profile with Australia’s skill-shortage needs. From picking the right ANZSCO code to refining your skills-assessment submission, we help you navigate each step with confidence. Ready to bring your expertise Down Under? Visit our homepage to start your journey today.
