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Introduction to the Migration Strategy

In December 2023, Australia unveiled a new Migration Strategy aimed at overhauling the nation’s migration system to better align with its workforce needs. A central element of this strategy is the establishment of a Core Skills Occupations List (CSOL), spearheaded by Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA). This initiative represents a critical step towards optimizing the migration policy to meet the dynamic demands of Australia’s labor market.

Role of Jobs and Skills Australia

Jobs and Skills Australia has been tasked with a pivotal role in defining the skill needs critical to the Australian economy. To this end, JSA has developed the Migration Labour Market Indicator Model. This model serves as an analytical tool to inform decisions regarding the occupations to be included in the CSOL, ensuring that the list is responsive to the actual needs of the economy.

Development and Purpose of CSOL

The CSOL is set to be a consolidated list that starts with the existing Skills Priority List. It integrates a rigorous, evidence-based process that includes an extensive engagement strategy with stakeholders. This approach is designed to evaluate migration suitability based on various factors such as labor market performance, dependence on sponsored visa holders, domestic supply, and market salary data.

Stakeholder Engagement in CSOL Development

An integral part of developing the CSOL is stakeholder engagement. JSA conducts consultations with a broad range of participants including businesses, unions, labor market participants, and various government bodies. These consultations are crucial for capturing a wide spectrum of insights and experiences, which help in refining the CSOL to be as effective and representative as possible.

Draft CSOL Format and Consultation Process

The draft CSOL, which is released solely for consultation purposes, is categorized into three groups:

1. Skilled occupations confidently recommended for CSOL inclusion: These are roles that JSA’s Migration Model strongly supports for inclusion based on current labor market data. Stakeholders are invited to provide feedback on these recommendations.
2. Skilled occupations under consideration for feedback: For these roles, JSA seeks detailed insights through labor market surveys, independent research, and firsthand accounts from businesses and workers, both Australian and migrant.
3. Skilled occupations suggested for exclusion from CSOL: These are roles that the model suggests should not be on the list, with JSA open to stakeholder feedback on these suggestions as well.

The consultation process for the CSOL includes a variety of methods such as surveys, submissions, bilateral meetings, and qualitative analysis. This comprehensive approach ensures that the final CSOL not only aligns with Australia’s international trade obligations but also accurately reflects the country’s evolving skill demands.

The CSOL initiative represents a sophisticated and strategic approach to reforming Australia’s migration system. By closely aligning the entry of skilled migrants with the actual needs of the labor market, Australia aims to enhance its economic growth and productivity. The ongoing consultations and data-driven approach of Jobs and Skills Australia are crucial in ensuring that the CSOL effectively supports Australia’s strategic economic objectives. This forward-looking strategy underscores the country’s commitment to maintaining a competitive edge by attracting the best global talent in areas most needed.