Western Australia (WA) has initiated its State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP) for the 2024-25 year, providing opportunities for skilled migrants to live and work in the state. This year’s program includes several key updates and continued policies aimed at attracting skilled workers to meet the state’s labor market needs.
Key Features of the 2024-25 Program
Application Fee Waiver
Western Australia will continue to waive the $200 application fee for the SNMP, making it more accessible for potential applicants.
Expanded Employment Contract Options
New for 2024-25 is the inclusion of additional employment contract arrangements for candidates invited through the General Stream – WASMOL – Schedule 1.
Monthly Invitation Rounds
The state will conduct monthly invitation rounds starting in August 2024, allowing for regular opportunities to apply.
Visa Allocations
For the 2024-25 program year, Western Australia has been allocated the following visa places:
- Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) visa: 3,000 places
- Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) visa: 2,000 places
Eligible Occupations
WASMOL Schedule 1
This schedule focuses primarily on occupations in the health and medical fields. Some of the key occupations include:
- Dentists
- Nurses
- Pharmacists
- Surgeons
- Anaesthetists
- Medical Practitioners
WASMOL Schedule 2
This schedule covers a broader range of occupations across various industries. Key occupations include:
- Accountants
- Engineers (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical)
- Technicians (ICT, Engineering)
- Programmers
- Mechanics
- Managers (Construction, Project, Finance)
- Trade Workers (Carpenters, Plumbers, Electricians)
- Teachers
- Veterinarians
- Architects
Application Requirements
To be eligible for state nomination under these schedules, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Occupation on the List: The nominated occupation must be on the relevant WASMOL schedule.
- Skills Assessment: A positive skills assessment relevant to the nominated occupation is required.
- English Language Proficiency: Applicants must meet minimum English language requirements.
- Work Experience: Typically, at least one year of work experience in the nominated or a closely related occupation is required within the last ten years.
- Employment Contract: For some occupations, a full-time employment contract in Western Australia for a minimum of six months is required, particularly for those listed under Schedule 1.
Additional Support Programs
Western Australia offers various support programs to aid skilled migrants, including:
- Construction Visa Subsidy Program (CVSP): Provides grants of up to $10,000 per skilled migrant to offset migration-related costs, particularly for in-demand construction occupations.
- Skilled Migration Job Connect: A service to assist migrants in finding employment opportunities in WA.