Australia and New Zealand Roll Out New Occupation Lists for Work Visas

Australia and New Zealand are modernising their work visa classifications, phasing out the old ANZSCO framework in favour of systems designed to reflect each country’s labour needs.

From Shared to Specialised Lists

Launched in 2006, the ANZSCO system was a joint framework for classifying occupations. Yet economic shifts and skill gaps have shown that each country now requires a more tailored approach. After consultations, both countries received strong support for unique systems.

New Zealand’s National Occupation List (NOL)

Launched on November 20, 2024, New Zealand’s NOL will align immigration with its most urgent industry needs. This system makes it easier to pinpoint roles in fields like healthcare, construction, and tech, ensuring that visas better meet workforce demands and open opportunities for skilled talent where it’s needed most.

Australia’s Occupation Standard Classification (OSCA)

Australia’s OSCA, debuting on December 6, 2024, follows a similar purpose, emphasising roles with acute talent shortages in sectors such as engineering, healthcare, and renewable energy. By organising visas around local priorities, OSCA supports streamlined pathways for skilled immigrants to meet these needs.

What Foreign Workers Can Expect

The OSCA and NOL systems offer clearer paths for skilled foreign professionals. By better matching local industry demand, they simplify the application process, allowing skilled workers to identify roles that meet updated eligibility criteria. You can explore current work visa opportunities here.

Timeline for Change

Both countries are phasing out ANZSCO gradually until full implementation in 2025. During this transition, ANZSCO will still be in use to ease adaptation for applicants, employers, and authorities.

Australia and New Zealand’s shift to OSCA and NOL demonstrates a commitment to keeping their immigration systems responsive and relevant. Whether you are an employer or a skilled worker, these changes provide several opportunities to ease labour shortages in a number of key industries and demand areas.

To ensure your work visa application aligns with these new requirements, seek professional advice from our experts. You can also contact us at 02 9411 6000 for more detailed information on visa options.