The Department of Jobs and Small Business is considering possible changes to the occupations on the skilled migration occupation lists, as part of its regularly six monthly review.

The Department invited stakeholders to make a submission in relation to any occupation on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL), the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and the Regional Occupation List (ROL), even if no change was flagged (see related article).

During the consultation process AREEA sought the input of interested members who provided further information and evidence to support our submission that the occupations identified as high priority by AREEA members should be placed on the applicable list.

These included Driller, Marine Transport Professionals NEC, Ship’s Engineer, Ship’s Master, Ship’s Office, Marine Surveyor and Gas or Petroleum Operator.

While Ship’s Master and Gas or Petroleum Operator are on the Regional Occupation List, AREEA submitted that these occupations should not be restricted to regional work.

The Department is analysing the submissions received to inform its advice to Government. AREEA will advise members when the outcome of this consultation is known.

This latest round of advocacy is in addition to AREEA Chief Executive Steve Knott’s recent attendance at the Ministerial Advisory Council on Skilled Migration (MACSM) meeting, where he represented the views of resources and energy employers (see related article).

To provide input on the government’s ongoing skilled migration reviews, please contact AREEA Policy Advisor, Ingrid Fraser, via [email protected]