The following fields consistently feature heavily on the skilled lists and align with the areas of highest job demand in Australia:

1. Health Care and Social Assistance

Driven by demographic needs (aging population) and ongoing national demand, healthcare roles offer some of the most secure migration pathways.

• Registered Nurse (in all specializations, including Aged Care, Critical Care, Mental Health)
• Medical Practitioners (General Practitioners and Specialist Physicians)
• Midwife
• Allied Health Professionals:
  • Physiotherapist
  • Occupational Therapist
  • Speech Pathologist
  • Psychologist (Clinical, Educational)
• Social Worker

2. Information and Communications Technology (ICT)

Australia‘s rapid digital transformation ensures continuous demand for technology professionals, many of whom are included on the MLTSSL/CSOL lists.

• Software Engineer / Developer Programmer
• ICT Business Analyst
• Computer Network and Systems Engineer
• ICT Security Specialist
• Data Scientist / Analyst Programmer

3. Engineering and Construction

Significant government infrastructure investment means core engineering and skilled trades roles are consistently prioritised for skilled migration.

• Civil Engineer
• Electrical Engineer
• Mechanical Engineer
• Engineering Manager
• Construction Project Manager
• Skilled Trades (e.g., Electrician, Carpenter, Plumber, Motor Mechanic)

4. Education

Australia has a national shortage of qualified educators, especially at the critical early stages of development.

• Early Childhood (Pre-primary School) Teacher
• Secondary School Teacher (especially in STEM subjects)
• Special Education Teacher

5. Accounting, Finance, and Management

While some areas of accounting are competitive, specialized and high-level finance roles remain key.

• Accountant (General) (though high points are often required for independent visas)
• Management Accountant
• External Auditor
• Chief Executive/Managing Director (senior roles)

Important Notes for Skilled Migration

1. Visa-Specific Lists: The actual list of eligible occupations can vary based on the specific visa subclass (e.g., Skilled Independent 189, Skilled Nominated 190, or Skilled Work Regional 491).
2. State and Territory Nomination: Each Australian state and territory (NSW, Victoria, etc.) also publishes its own demand list, which often includes more occupations than the core Federal list to meet their local workforce needs. Checking these state lists is critical.
3. Skills Assessment: Every applicant must undergo a Skills Assessment (e.g., by Engineers Australia, ACS, VETASSESS) to verify their qualifications meet Australian standards for their nominated occupation before applying for a skilled visa.