Australia’s Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa, subclass 482, serves as a key avenue for skilled workers looking to address labour shortages in the Australian workforce. The visa requires applicants to meet a two-fold work experience requirement:
– the demonstration of necessary skills to perform the position being offered by the Australian employer; and
– the provision of relevant work experience.
Recent updates to migration policy in August 2024 have significantly relaxed the work experience requirements, making this visa subclass more accessible.
These changes, along with the upcoming reduction of the 2 years work experience requirement to just 1 year, starting in November 2024, signal significant shifts in Australia’s approach to work/sponsorship visas, in contrast with the current approach to Student Visas, which is not so positive
Demonstrating Skills
Under the Migration Regulations 1994, specifically subsection 482.212, visa applicants must prove their capabilities to perform their nominated occupation effectively. This proof usually comes through formal qualifications and/or a skills assessment, depending on the occupation and the origin country of the qualifications. Australian standards are stringent, ensuring that the workforce maintains high professional competency.
It is possible in a lot of cases thought, to show evidence of work experience in lieu of a formal qualification, and the number of years required here varies from occupation to occupation.
Work Experience Requirement
In addition to the demonstration of skills we mention above, the 482 visa also requires under legislation that applicants show at least two years of relevant work experience in relevant roles.
Under policy, this work experience was expected to be:
– On a full time basis (38 hours a week at least) or if part-time (20 to 37 hours a week) the time would be counted on a pro-rata basis. So for example, if you worked part time and you needed to show evidence of at least 2 years of experience, you would need to show evidence of at least 4 years relevant experience;
– Within the past five years (This requirement ensured that incoming skilled workers had both theoretical knowledge and practical, recent field experience);
– Excluded casual work.
In August however, there was an update to Departmental policy and all of the above policy requirements have been removed.
– Work doesn’t need to be full time anymore
– If doesn’t need to have happened within the last 5 years
– And casual work is not excluded
It’s important to know however that work is still expected to be in a relevant position, and at the right skilled level, so don’t presume any work would be accepted. This is when an experienced Migration Agent can really make a difference for you: by checking if your previous experience would meet the requirements and telling you if you qualify for the visa.
Upcoming Changes: Reduction to One Year of Required Experience
A further reduction in work experience requirements is set for November, decreasing the necessary duration from two years to just one. This adjustment will broaden eligibility, allowing individuals with one year of professional experience to pursue career and visa opportunities in Australia.
These modifications reflect a more flexible approach by the Australian government, designed to attract a wider array of skilled workers to support diverse sectors. This shift is particularly relevant in the context of global skill shortages and the competitive international labour market.
For applicants, the updated policies could mean a faster transition from qualification to visa sponsorship eligibility. Employers will benefit from access to a larger pool of candidates capable of filling essential roles promptly, especially in fast-growing industries or those facing sharp skills shortages.
The TSS visa is a critical gateway for skilled workers entering the Australian job market, and the recent legislative and policy changes enhance its accessibility. By lowering the work experience barriers, Australia not only boosts the appeal of its skilled migration pathways but also shows adaptability to the dynamics of the global workforce.If you are an employer seeking to sponsor an International Worker, or an International Worker yourself with a job offer, book a free Discovery Call with one of our Migration Agents. Get in touch via this form. We look forward to assisting you!
