Changing State Nomination Priorities in FY 2024-25: What It Means for PR Applicants

As we step into the 2024-25 financial year, state nomination programs across Australia have seen significant changes. With many occupations becoming highly competitive, the journey to securing a permanent residency (PR) through the state nomination process has become more challenging than ever. Occupations such as Chefs, Motor Mechanics, Marketing Specialists, Accountants, and those in Business-related fields are feeling the heat as states tighten their criteria, offer fewer invites, or set very high points thresholds for applicants.

This shift has made navigating the PR pathways complex, especially with most states now relying on Expression of Interest (EOI) or Registration of Interest (ROI) systems, leaving many applicants in a state of uncertainty.

State Nomination in 2024-25: Tougher Competition, Higher Points

For competitive occupations, the landscape of state nomination is becoming more unpredictable. Some states are setting the bar higher in terms of points requirements, meaning even highly skilled applicants with substantial experience may struggle to receive an invitation. Occupations that were once in demand, such as Accountants or Marketing Specialists, now require significantly higher points than before, and in many cases, applicants are left waiting with no guarantee of an invite.

Examples of Current Trends:

• Chefs: Once a favored occupation, now facing high points or salary -based invites in states like Victoria and New South Wales, making it more difficult to secure an invite without a high score or regional experience.
• Motor Mechanics and Technicians: Facing a similarly competitive situation in states like Queensland and South Australia, where priority is being given to applicants with regional ties.
• Marketing Specialists and Business Occupations: Receiving fewer invites overall, with several states either closing or limiting access to these occupations, further compounding challenges for applicants in these fields.
• Accountants: Traditionally one of the most oversubscribed occupations, continue to face stiff competition with high points thresholds or no invites in several states.

Uncertainty of EOI and ROI Programs

With most states relying on EOI or ROI-based programs, the predictability of receiving an invitation has diminished significantly. Points-based systems, combined with occupation caps and the state's focus on regional growth, mean that only a select few applicants receive invitations, often leaving many others in limbo.

This uncertainty has made it harder to plan for a clear pathway to PR through state nominations. For many applicants, simply meeting the points requirement is no longer enough to guarantee an invite.

What Should Applicants Do? Exploring Alternative Pathways to PR

Given these challenges, applicants looking for PR should consider alternative pathways beyond state nomination. One such option is the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) 482 Visa, which provides a viable pathway to PR, particularly for those in competitive occupations.

What is the 482 TSS Visa?

The TSS 482 Visa allows Australian employers to sponsor overseas workers to fill skill shortages when a suitable local candidate is unavailable. It is divided into three streams:

• Short-Term Stream: For occupations on the short-term skilled occupation list, with a visa duration of up to 2 years (or 4 years if an international trade agreement applies).
• Medium-Term Stream: For occupations on the medium- and long-term strategic skills list, with the option to stay for up to 4 years and create a pathway to PR after 3 years of employment.
• Labour Agreement Stream: For cases where an employer has a labour agreement with the Australian government.

How the 482 TSS Visa Creates a Pathway to PR

For those in highly competitive occupations, the 482 TSS Visa offers a pathway to PR through the Medium-Term Stream. If you secure employment in an eligible occupation and work for your sponsoring employer for 2 years, you can apply for permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) 186 Visa.

This pathway offers a more predictable route to PR compared to the uncertainty of state nomination invites. It also has the added advantage of allowing you to work and gain Australian experience, which can further enhance your eligibility for other visa programs in the future.

Why Consider the 482 TSS Visa?

1. Job Security and Sponsorship: Securing a job with sponsorship provides stability while working towards PR, without the uncertainty of waiting for state nomination invites.
2. Pathway to PR: For most occupations on the list, the 482 Visa opens a direct pathway to the ENS 186 Visa after 2 years of work.
3. Regional Opportunities: Many employers in regional Australia are actively looking for skilled workers, offering greater chances for sponsorship and eventual PR.
4. Flexibility: The TSS Visa allows for flexible work arrangements, depending on your occupation and employer needs, making it a good fit for many skilled migrants.

Next Steps: Exploring Your PR Pathway with Aussizz Group

Navigating the complexities of the state nomination program in FY 2024-25 requires careful planning and consideration of alternative pathways. At Aussizz Group, we specialize in helping applicants explore the best options for PR, whether through state nomination, the 482 TSS Visa, or other employer-sponsored visas.

If you're in a competitive occupation and facing the challenges of high points-based invites, we can assist you in assessing your eligibility for the 482 Visa or other potential pathways. Our team is here to guide you through the visa process, from securing sponsorship to achieving your long-term goal of PR.

Contact Aussizz Group Today For more information on how to secure your PR pathway, connect with us for a consultation. Let’s explore the best options for you to achieve your dream of living and working in Australia.

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