On target; Australia aims for more skilled migrants

The MODL and Skills Occupation List (SOL) form part of the backbone of Australia’s point-based skilled migration strategy.

‘The additions to the MODL will have a significant impact on the number of workers who now qualify to immigrate to Australia. The additions mean the Australian economy is ready to absorb skilled workers from the occupational categories listed,’ said Oonagh Baerveldt spokesperson for the Australian Visa Bureau.

Applicants for immigration to Australia who nominate one of the newly added occupations on or after 4 May 2005 will be awarded additional points. Those who lodged their application before 4 May 2005, and the application is not yet finalised, will also be granted additional points.

Applicants under the points tested General Skilled Migration (GSM) program who nominate an occupation on the MODL are awarded either 15 points or 20 points.

The following occupations were added to the MODL on 4 May 2005:

Professional

Civil Engineer

Dentist

Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Podiatrist

Speech Pathologist

Trades

Bricklayer

Cabinetmaker

Carpenter & Joiner

Cook

Electrical Powerline Tradesperson

Electrician (Special Class)

Electronic Equipment Tradesperson

Fibrous Plasterer

General Electrician

General Electronic Instruments Tradesperson

General Plumber

Solid Plaster

‘Australia’s points-style system of immigration has proven to be extremely successful in filling labour gaps in the economy. Of course now it’s being touted by politicians as a potential model for Britain,’ said Ms Baerveldt.

‘The points system is effective but not always straightforward. Anyone who is interested in immigrating to Australia should complete the online assessment to see if they meet the basic legislative requirements,’ said Ms Baerveldt.