Jobs and Skills Australia has opened consultations on the 2025 Core Skills Occupations List (CSOL), inviting feedback from businesses, unions, governments, workers and other stakeholders until 26 September.
The CSOL forms part of the Government’s skilled migration settings, guiding employer-sponsored visas under the Skills in Demand framework. Unlike previous lists, it does not prioritise or cap occupations, with visa grants instead determined by demand from approved employer sponsors.
Jobs and Skills Australia will recommend occupations for the CSOL based on two criteria: the Occupation Shortage List, which tracks recruitment difficulties, and broader labour market and migration data, combined with stakeholder submissions. Over 800 skill level 1–3 occupations are in scope, with some required inclusions under international trade obligations.
The consultation process includes surveys, written submissions and bilateral meetings. Submissions must be evidence-based and may cover any eligible occupation, with a focus on those marked for consultation due to changes in the occupational classification system or limited past evidence.
Advice on the 2025 CSOL will also consider whether migration is the most appropriate response to skill shortages, factoring in migrant workforce participation, graduate supply, and wage trends. Jobs and Skills Australia’s updated Migration Labour Market Indicator Model will inform its final advice.
Following consultations, the Commissioner will provide recommendations to the Government. The Minister for Immigration and Citizenship will make the final decision on the 2025 CSOL through legislative instruments, with Jobs and Skills Australia’s advice to be published at the same time.
Marzena Fordonska, Principal Solicitor at SALIA Lawyers & Associates, said the consultations are significant for both employers and migrants. “Changes to the Core Skills Occupations List will shape opportunities for both employers and migrants. For employers, new roles on the list can make it easier to access the talent they need, while changes in other areas may create challenges in filling certain positions. For migrants, the list is a guide to which skills are most in demand and how that can influence their visa options,” she said.
The closing date for submissions is midnight, 26 September 2025 (EST). It can be made through the Jobs and Skills Australia website.
Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided is intended as a general guide and should not be relied upon as legal or migration advice. As migration laws and regulations can change, we recommend consulting an Australian Lawyer or Registered Migration Agent for advice tailored to your circumstances.
