The Department of Home Affairs has sparked uncertainty in Australia’s skilled migration system by updating several occupations in the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) with ANZSCO 2022 titles, while legislation for General Skilled Migration (GSM) visas continues to reference ANZSCO 2013.

This divergence affects applicants for visas including Subclass 189, 190, 491, and 485, creating potential confusion over which occupation classification to use. Some occupations, such as Painting Trades Worker versus Painter, now appear under different ANZSCO versions in official sources, making eligibility verification more complex.

The Department has confirmed that GSM visas remain under ANZSCO 2013, while employer-sponsored visas, such as Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage) and 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme), use ANZSCO 2022. There are currently no plans to align the two classifications.

Understanding the ANZSCO Mismatch

ANZSCO, or the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations, provides a framework for defining occupations in Australia and New Zealand. Updating ANZSCO is necessary to reflect changes in the job market, industry practices, and emerging roles. However, the current mismatch between the 2013 and 2022 versions has inadvertently created a legislative inconsistency.

For GSM visa applicants, using the wrong ANZSCO version could result in delays or even visa refusal, as the Department strictly adheres to ANZSCO 2013 for occupation verification. Employer-sponsored visa applicants, on the other hand, follow ANZSCO 2022. Skilled migration experts recommend double-checking occupation codes and consulting updated lists provided by state authorities before submitting an application.

Implications for Skilled Workers

The ANZSCO discrepancy may affect both onshore and offshore applicants, particularly those who are planning to lodge GSM visa applications while also exploring employer-sponsored options. For example:

  • An applicant classified as Painter under ANZSCO 2022 for a 482 visa might still be considered Painting Trades Worker under ANZSCO 2013 for a 189 visa.
  • Occupation-specific criteria, including work experience and licensing requirements, may differ between the two versions, potentially affecting eligibility.
Migration specialists suggest that applicants consider both ANZSCO versions when planning their migration strategy, and seek professional guidance to ensure compliance with current legislative requirements.

2025–26 State & Territory Nominated Migration Programs

Alongside ANZSCO updates, States and Territories are preparing their 2025–26 migration programs, which are partially open while awaiting final visa allocations from the Commonwealth Government. Some jurisdictions have released interim quotas, while others remain closed or suspended.

Current Program Status by State/Territory:

State/Territory Status Key Notes
ACT Open Updated its nomination program occupation list on 13 October 2025.
NSW Likely Open Skills Lists updated on 7 October 2025; minimal changes from the previous year.
NT Suspended Interim quota allows limited Subclass 491 nominations for onshore applicants; full allocation pending.
QLD Closed Candidates may submit Registration of Interest (ROI); program opens after allocation confirmation.
SA Closed No new ROI applications; full program details pending allocation.
TAS Open Six nomination streams, priority attribute system (Gold, Green, Orange, Orange Plus), and multiple occupation references (ANZSCO 2013, 2022, OSCA).
VIC Open Full 2025–26 allocation expected shortly.
WA Closed Program remains closed until Commonwealth allocation confirmed.

Highlights of State Programs

  • ACT: The program is open, with an updated occupation list reflecting priority roles and critical skills.
  • TAS: Despite its complexity, Tasmania provides detailed guidance on eligibility and operates six nomination streams, along with three separate occupation references. Applicants must carefully navigate Priority Roles, Health/Teaching lists, and the OSCA system.
  • NT & WA: Limited or suspended programs require applicants to monitor updates closely for any changes in quotas or eligibility.
  • NSW, VIC: Programs are open or likely to open soon, providing opportunities for skilled applicants to secure state nominations.

Expert Advice for Applicants

Given the ANZSCO mismatch and partial state program openings, migration experts advise:
  1. Verify Occupation Codes: Always confirm the correct ANZSCO version before applying.
  2. Consult State Guidelines: Each state or territory may have specific requirements, priority roles, and occupation lists.
  3. Seek Professional Guidance: Consider engaging a registered migration agent to navigate the ANZSCO discrepancy and understand the impact on eligibility.
  4. Monitor Updates: State programs and occupation lists are subject to change; especially as final 2025–26 allocations are confirmed.

Conclusion:

The ANZSCO mismatch highlights the complexity of Australia’s skilled migration framework and underscores the importance of careful planning for prospective migrants. While GSM visas continue to follow ANZSCO 2013, employer-sponsored visas use the updated 2022 classification. Meanwhile, States and Territories are gradually opening their 2025–26 programs, with some offering limited allocations and others awaiting official confirmation.

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