Australia continues to experience skilled worker shortages across healthcare, construction, engineering, education, hospitality, technology, and trade industries in 2026. As a result, many overseas workers are asking the same question: ‘Is my occupation eligible for an Australian skilled visa?’
The answer often depends on whether your occupation appears on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) or another official skilled occupation list used by the Australian Government.
What Is the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL)?
The CSOL is Australia’s updated occupation list used for the Skills in Demand (SID) visa program and several employer-sponsored migration pathways. It identifies occupations currently experiencing workforce shortages in Australia.
The CSOL helps determine whether overseas skilled workers may qualify for visas such as:
- Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482)
- Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
- Other employer-sponsored pathways
Which Jobs Are Most in Demand in Australia in 2026?
The following occupations continue to experience strong demand across Australia:
- Registered Nurses
- Aged Care Workers
- Software Engineers
- Cyber Security Specialists
- Civil Engineers
- Electricians
- Plumbers
- Airconditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics
- Early Childhood Teachers
- Construction Project Managers
- Chefs and Cooks
- Medical Practitioners
- Heavy Vehicle Mechanics
- Data Analysts
- Mechanical Engineers
Many of these occupations currently appear on the CSOL or state nomination occupation lists.
Are State Occupation Lists Different From the CSOL?
State occupation lists are different from the CSOL. Australian states and territories may publish their own skilled occupation lists for state-nominated visas such as:
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
- Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)
State occupation lists may change depending on local workforce needs. Useful official state migration resources include:
- NSW Skilled Migration Program
- Migration WA
- Live in Melbourne – Skilled Migration
- Move to South Australia
If you are looking to immigrate to a preferred state, please contact our team for a tailored advice.
Where Can I Check the Skilled or Core Skills Occupation Lists?
You should always rely on official Australian government websites when checking occupation eligibility. Below are official government resources:
Department of Home Affairs
Use the official Australian government resource, the Skilled Occupation List, to check whether your occupation is eligible for skilled migration or employer-sponsored visas. You can search occupation lists, ANZSCO codes, visa pathways, and the relevant assessing authority for your profession.
Official Core Skills Occupation List
View the latest official Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) to see whether your occupation is currently eligible for the Skills in Demand visa and other employer-sponsored migration pathways in 2026.
Jobs and Skills Australia
You may also explore current labour shortages, industry demand, and workforce trends across Australia. The Jobs and Skills Australia website can help you understand which occupations are experiencing strong demand and where opportunities may be available.
These official resources are regularly updated and should always be checked before lodging a visa application.
Do I Need a Skills Assessment?
In many cases, you will be needing a skills assessment. A skills assessment confirms that your qualifications and employment experience meet Australian standards for your nominated occupation. Different occupations have different assessing authorities. For example:
- Engineers Australia assesses many engineering occupations
- Trades Recognition Australia assesses trade occupations
- ACS assesses ICT and technology occupations
Understanding which authority applies to your occupation and preparing the correct supporting documents is an important part of the migration process. Incorrect or incomplete assessments can affect your visa eligibility or lead to delays. If you are unsure which assessment pathway applies to your occupation, we can help you better understand the requirements relevant to your visa options and migration goals.
Why Professional Migration Advice Matters
Australian migration laws and occupation lists change regularly. Choosing the wrong occupation, visa pathway, or skills assessment strategy can lead to delays, refusals, or unnecessary costs. Seeking professional advice can help you as an applicant:
- Understand the most suitable visa pathway
- Confirm occupation eligibility
- Prepare stronger application documents
- Avoid common migration mistakes
- Understand employer sponsorship requirements
- Improve long-term permanent residency opportunities
Every applicant’s circumstances are different, which is why tailored advice is important before making major migration decisions. At SALIA Lawyers & Associates Pty Ltd, we assist skilled workers, employers, and families with Australian migration matters. Our team provides clear and practical immigration advice tailored to your individual situation.
We can help you:
- Check whether your occupation is eligible
- Assess suitable visa pathways
- Guide you through skills assessments
- Assist with employer-sponsored visas
- Prepare and lodge visa applications
- Plan pathways towards permanent residency
If you are considering working in Australia, obtaining the right legal and migration advice early can make the process smoother and help you avoid costly mistakes. Contact SALIA Lawyers & Associates Pty Ltd to discuss your Australian visa options and receive tailored guidance for your migration goals.
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.
