Every year, Australian government makes changes to its immigration program to keep up with the economic needs of the country. And the year 2018 is no exception.

A lot of changes came into effect on 18 March 2018, with the major one being the replacement of 457 visa with Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) 482 visa, as we already discussed in our previous blog.

Another change that has been implemented on the same date is the availability of Regional Occupation List (ROL) for a number of skilled visa programs including:

• Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) (Subclass 186)
• Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (Subclass 187)
• Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 190)
• Training Visa (Subclass 407)
• Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)
• Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485)
• Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa (Subclass 489)

This list is carried out on the basis of labour market analysis by the Department of Jobs and Small Business and will be reviewed as part of the regular update in mid-2018. All the visa applicants who are nominated for the position from the ROL will be in a regional area.

Let’s discuss about the key changes it brings to other skilled visas:

Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) (Subclass 186): A new skilled occupation has been released with 208 eligible occupations included only on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) for this visa program. If you are looking to apply for this visa, you are required to be nominated in one of these occupations except in case separate arrangements are made under a labour agreement of Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream.

Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) (Subclass 187): All the 673 skilled occupations will continue to be eligible for this visa, however, they are included on both MLTSSL and ROL for employers in regional areas. These occupations apply to both Temporary Residency and Direct Entry streams.

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): New instrument has been evaluated and published and applicants of this visa will continue to access the MLTSSL list with 176 occupations eligible for this program.

Skilled-Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): New instrument has been published. Applicants looking to apply for this visa can both MLTSSL and STSOL (Short-term Skilled Occupation List). STSOL has less number of eligible skilled occupations that contributes mainly to Australia’s regional economy. 416 skilled occupations are eligible for this program.

Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482): The skilled occupation for 482 visa is available in a separate instrument with STSOL occupations being only eligible for the Short-term stream of the visa and MLTSSL and ROL occupations eligible for the Medium-term stream of the visa.

All the skilled occupations that were available for 457 visa are same in the instrument published for this visa and it also includes some new skilled occupations from the new ROL list.

In total, 509 skilled occupations are eligible for this visa program.

Being an applicant of 482 visa, you are required to be nominated for one of these skilled occupations unless there are separate arrangements under a labour agreement. Besides, work experience caveats have been removed except for certain occupations included in the Regional Occupation List.

Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) (Graduate Stream): New Instrument has been published with a total of 176 eligible skilled occupations to nominate from the MLTSSL list.

Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa: New Instrument has been published with a total of 176 eligible skilled occupations to nominate from the MLTSSL list.

Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa: New Instrument has been published and 475 skilled occupations are made eligible for this program. If you have been nominated by a state or territory government for this visa, you must have their occupation on the ROL that allows them to live and work in regional area.

Please note that the list of skilled occupations will not be applicable to the Temporary Residence Stream who is living or have held 457 visa or 482 visa on 18 April 2017.

Both the lists of Eligible Skilled Occupations and the Combined List of Eligible Skilled Occupations have been updated with the above changes.

If you are looking for further assistance on any of the above mentioned skilled visas, feel free to get in touch with us today. You can also post your queries on our Immigration & Education forum and get solutions right away.

There has always been an endless flow of career opportunities for engineering professionals in Australia. This not only restricted to a particular discipline but all major engineering occupations.

As per the Hays, Recruiting Experts in Engineering, there will be a great demand of Structural Engineers, Civil Drafters, Intermediate Civil Engineers, 12D Designers, Civil Design Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Revit Drafters, Traffic Modellers, Water Engineers, Transport Planners, Fire Design Engineers, Hydraulic Drafters and Civil Design Engineers in the coming months of 2018.

Following the consistent demand, the government of Australia has taken several initiatives to fill the shortage of skilled and specialised professionals. One such initiative is introducing the Skilled Recognised Graduate Visa.

All the international engineering students who acquire degree or qualification from Australian universities will be considered eligible to work in Australia even without any experience, if they hold a Skilled Recognised Graduate 476 Visa.

If you are currently pursuing an engineering degree in Australia or have recently become graduate, chances are you would also like to choose this pathway to get better job prospects in Australia and enhance career growth.

Hence, to ensure you know all the criteria for 476 visa and to help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions along with answers that are given below. Take a look!

Also Read: Education and Career Opportunities for Engineers in Australia

What is Skilled Recognised Graduate Visa?

Skilled Recognised Graduate is a temporary visa for recent international engineering graduates that allows them to get employment and gain skilled work experience in Australia. The visa is valid for up to 18 months.

Who is eligible for this visa?

You are only eligible for 476 visa if:

• You are 31 or younger in age
• You have either completed bachelors, masters, doctoral or postgraduate diploma in engineering
• Your qualification must include specialisation in either civil, chemical, environmental, structural, mechanical, production & plant, electrical & electronics, mining and material engineering
• You are applying for the visa within 24 months of completing an eligible engineering qualification from a recognised institution of Australia
• Have never hold skilled recognised graduate visa or temporary graduate 485 visa (unless you were a dependent on visa)
• You have the required English language skills
• Meet health and character requirements

What does it mean from “A Recognised Institute”?

A recognised institution offering an Engineering qualification in Australia is accredited under the Washington Accord. It is an international agreement between professional bodies of participating or signatory countries who are responsible for accrediting engineering degree programmes.

It assures that the degree programmes accredited by bodies of participating countries hold significant equivalency. International students graduating from recognised institutions, as a result are considered to work in Australia when applying to practice engineering.

How one can demonstrate English language skills for 476 visa?

There are number of tests available that help you provide evidence of your English language ability for lodging a visa. These include: IELTS Academic, PTE (Academic), OET, TOEFL, and Cambridge (CAE).

The minimum scores required for each test are:

• IELTS – Overall score 6 with at least 5 in each band
• PTE – overall score 50 with at least 36 in each band
• OET – a score of at least B in each of the four components 
• TOEFL – Total score 64 with 4 in listening and reading and at least 14 in writing and speaking
• Cambridge – 169 overall with at least 154 in each band

What is the processing time and fees for an Australian 476 visa?

It usually takes 3 to 4 months to process an application for 476 visa while the processing fees is AUD 365.

Please Note: The processing time and fees may vary due to individual circumstances.

Can I include my family members as a dependant in visa application?

Yes, you can include your partner and your or your partner’s child/step child as a dependant in your visa application.

What are the chances of getting a job on skilled recognised graduate visa?

This usually depends on your skills and how well you perform at the interview.

How do I buy the best health insurance plan to meet health requirements for 476 visa?

There are various leading health insurance providers in Australia offering best of health insurance policies to help you meet your needs and visa requirements. This include Bupa, Allianz Care, Medibank, Nib and Ahm.

You can compare their plans on different parameters at www.getmypolicy.online and get the best quote instantly.

How character requirements are met?

You must provide a police clearance certificate from each country you’ve lived for more than 12 months in the past 10 years after you turned 16 years of age. These certificates must prove you with no criminal records.

Can I undertake any course of study or get admission in a university while living in Australia on 476 visa?

Yes, you can study or get admission in a university while living in Australia on 476 visa. However, you must have all the evidences on hand required by the immigration department like letter of admission, availability of funds, etc.

Am I eligible for permanent residency on 476 visa?

476 visa is only valid for 18 months and cannot be extended. There are other pathways that can help you extend your stay and get permanent residency in the country. These include:

• Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186) (If you are nominated by an approved Australian employer to fill a skilled position, you can apply for this visa)
• Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) (It is a point-tested visa that allows you to work and live in Australia as a permanent resident if you score at least 60 points or more in the test)
• Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) (If you are nominated by an Australian state or territory, you can apply for the visa)
• Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 489) (If you are already living in regional area of Australia on 476 visa or considering to make a move to work there, this visa is appropriate for you)

If you need assistance for any of the above visas, we have the most experienced immigration experts to help you at every step of pre and post visa application process. All you need to do is to get in touch with us at info@aussizz.com.

Why my visa application is getting delayed?

A lot of reasons are responsible behind the delay in visa application. This can be due to high number of applications for immigration department to review, improper paperwork, missing crucial documents, non-payment, etc. To know the appropriate reason, it is highly advisable to seek assistance from the experts.

Prepping to lodge a visa application? Didn’t get your questions covered? We have a registered team of immigration consultants who work meticulously to turn any obstacle into an opportunity for you. From gathering documentation, confirming your eligibility to dealing with immigration authorities and visa approval, you can always count on us for the accurate process and best support.

So, why not get started now? Drop all your queries or concerns at our immigration and education forum.

British Columbia is not just a breathtaking place in Canada, but also one of the largest provinces in the country, taking up around 10% of its total land surface. Home to lush green forests and enchanting mountain tops, British Columbia has national parks and other protected areas which attract millions of visitors every year.

On the economic front, the province’s stability relies majorly on its mining and forestry. British Columbia prides itself on being the second largest producer of natural gas in the country, while possessing Canada’s third largest hydroelectric power scheme.

Apart from tourism and these two industries, it is also the lifestyle and the fact that BC is a melting pot of many religions and ethnicities, that makes it attract such a multitude of people from various countries and all walks of life.

Now, there are various ways for one to relocate to the province of British Columbia; but one of the most straightforward, simple, and therefore, most favored way is through the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program.

The latest draw for the program, that was held on 21st March, issued as many as 146 invitations through its Entrepreneur, Express Entry, and Skills Immigration categories. The invitations were sent to graduates, entrepreneurs, and skilled workers, who are interested in getting a Canadian PR, so that they could apply for a provincial nomination.

For the categories, namely Skilled Worker, and International Graduate – both under the Express Entry BC – a successful nomination would mean a direct addition of 600 points under the CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System), as well as an ITA (Invitation to Apply) at the later held federal Express Entry draw.

If an applicant is invited through any of the categories under Skills Immigration, then their permanent residence application would have to be processed outside of the Express Entry system, as and when they’ve been successfully nominated.

This table shows the minimum scores for the draw, as they were for each category:

Source: https://www.canadavisa.com/news/bc-continues-to-invite-skilled-workers-graduates-and-entrepreneurs-to-immigrate-to-the-province.html

The important thing for people who look forward to migrating to Canada via the BC PNP, is to create themselves an online profile under the program, while filling every section of the registration form. This profile will then be assessed, after which, every applicant will receive a score based on various factors, such as their educational qualification, work experience, and so on.
Some important things to note, are:

• An applicant would do good to have a full-time job offer from an employer based out of British Columbia; this will increase their chance of getting eligibility for most of the BC PNP managed categories.
• An Invitation to Apply for the BC PNP is not at all same as the ITA issued at the federal level.

If you want to know more about the eligibility criteria and the whole process that goes into BC PNP, get in touch with us today.

One of the most controversial and anticipated update

The Department of Home Affairs announced the upcoming changes to the employer sponsored 457 Visa back in 2017. The day finally arrived where the changes came into effect on 18th March 2018, Sunday. The 20-year-old Employer-Sponsored 457 Visa has been subject to many changes in the past but now has been finally terminated and the new visa named Temporary Skilled Shortage Visa Subclass 482 has been officially launched.

What is TSS Visa?

Almost a year ago the detailed requirements along with the common eligibility requirement were also put out where the TSS Visa has 2 main streams, Short Term Stream and Medium Term Stream including a Labour Agreement Stream which is for exceptional cases. The applicant of this visa can be inside or outside Australia.

Below is the snapshot of Short-Term Stream & Medium-Term Stream of the Temporary Skilled Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)

Labour Agreement Stream

The employer can sponsor an applicant as an overseas skilled worker under Labour Agreement Stream if it has a labour agreement with the Australian government by establishing a need that cannot be fulfilled in the Australian labour market and unavailability of standard temporary or permanent visa programs.

As you can notice the visa fees is significantly high and the employer is also required to pay a compulsory annual training levy for foreign worker. If the company decides to hire the employ through permanent schemes like employer nomination or regional sponsored migration visa, then they are subject to pay the training levy of 3000 AUD for business with turnover less than 10 million AUD and 5000 AUD for business with turnover more than 10 million AUD. However, it is not yet clarified when the SAF will come into official effect, so, until then the training benchmarks evidence will not be necessary.

1. What are the Work Experience Requirements for TSS Visa?
2. What about the Standard Business Sponsorship?
3. How is the Australia Market Salary Rate assessed?
4. What are the Key obligations of a sponsor for TSS Nomination?
5. What is the Genuine Temporary Entrant criteria (GTE requirement)?
6. What is Condition 8607? How it affects a TSS Visa applicant?
7. Effects of TSS Visa introduction. Who is Affected?
8. How does it affect the applicants?
9. How does it affect the Employers?
10. What is TSS Visa Processing Time?
11. Transition from 457 to TSS

What are the Work Experience Requirements for TSS Visa?

A proof of full time work experience of at least 2 years in the nominated occupations or in the related field is mandatory. This is expected to be undertaken in a period of last 5 years and need not be continuous.

The flexibility is given for some industries in cases where the work experience is a part of/ gained through

• Research for Master and /or PhD in medical and research based occupations
• Clinical Placements and internships (for example, for the medical practitioners having final year practical training)
• Professional Year Program

Part time work might be considered for highly relevant skills.

What about the Standard Business Sponsorship?

If you got the Standard Business Sponsorship (SBS), you can use it to apply for TSS nominations and Visa application. If the SBS is granted after 18th March 2018 then it will be valid for 5 years in majority cases.

How is the Australia Market Salary Rate Assessed?

There are changes to requirements of the market rate salary as compared to the 457 visa. For the TSS Visa, the Annual Market Salary Rate (AMSR) (excluding the non-monetary benefits) must be equal to or more than the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) for the applied occupation, unless the Minister waives them off. At present, the TSMIT is $53,900.

What are the Key obligations of a sponsor for TSS Nomination?

The location of the occupation and period must be specified in the nomination. A sponsor must pay the nomination fees and must officially state the legal employment contract abiding by all the commonwealth, state or territory including any national law (if applicable).

What is the Genuine Temporary Entrant criteria (GTE requirement)?

GTE will be applicable

• for the STSOL occupations
• in certain cases, where, the applicant has been living in Australia on temporary visas for at the least 4 years
• while the applicant wants to renew the short-term TSS Visa i.e applying for this visa for the second time.

Further, for every applicant who is granted the TSS Visa, following conditions will be applicable:

Condition 8607, Condition 8501 (A mandatory Health Insurance), and Condition 8303

What is Condition 8607? How it affects a TSS Visa applicant?

An applicant must

• start work within 90 days. For onshore applicant the 90-day period starts from the day of visa grant date and for offshore applicant the count starts after his/her arrival in Australia post visa grant.
• work with approved sponsor for a minimum of 60 days consecutively.
• get a mandatory licence, registration or membership

If the applicant wants to change the occupation then she/he will have to lodge a new nomination and subsequently, a new application.

If the applicant is changing the sponsor/ employer, then he/she is required to be sponsored by a new employer and then lodge only a new nomination, not new visa. However, this is in no manner extends the length of your visa or allows you to work in a new occupation.

Effects of TSS Visa introduction. Who is Affected?

As an effect of this visa, the number of employer sponsored permanent residency visa grants will drop significantly.

Both the employer and the applicants are going to be affected. Especially the international students who are left with slim chances for permanent residency if they opt for this visa.

How does it affect the applicants?

Most of the international graduates will become non-eligible to apply for the visa due to the obligatory 2 years’ relevant full-time work experience requirement and the need for positive skill assessment. It further implies there will be less onshore applicants than the overseas ones.

So, onshore international students are unlikely to have much advantage than their counterparts i.e the overseas applicants.

On the brighter side, the offshore applicants will have a better chance at visa grant provided they have relevant work experience and get a positive skill assessment.

From a slight different perspective, the changes might affect the Australia Tertiary Education sector. When international students will have tough requirements to be met and limited PR pathway, the likeliness of them opting for tertiary education reduces.

How does it affect the Employers?

Tapping the best talents in the world is one of the biggest challenges for the start-ups. They are the ones who are at a major loss here. When funds are tight and you need to excel in the competitive market, the choice for budding talents working for start-ups is very little or almost grim. To add to the existing budget for a company, there is an imposed annual training levy.

Thus, hiring the talent with high level of skills will be a costly affair and a tough call to make for many businesses especially in the tech and management sector. Needless to say it will considerably affect their business growth.

Moreover, the limited pathways to PR for the applicants will cause decrease in the interest among them to apply for the open positions falling under STSOL.

Many caveats also apply to the employers like a minimum of five full-time employees, an annual turnover of at least $1 million, the requisite to pay a higher minimum salary according to the Australian Market Salary Rate to the applicant.

What is TSS Visa Processing Time?

The processing time for this visa is expected to be similar to the 457 visa. However, it will depend on various factors like the number of visas to be processed by the department, the status of the sponsor of the applicant, applicant’s occupation, location of the applicant’s sponsor, processing time for sponsorship and nomination.

It also depends on the number of applications the department has on hand to be processed.

In case of missing documents, the case officer will demand the necessary evidences which might take additional months of time, might be 6 months or more.

Transition from 457 to TSS

The TSS Visa has impacted the other 2 crucial visas Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) (Subclass 186) Visa and Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) (Subclass 187) Visa. You can check out the effects in the below link.

Must Read: Australia Immigration Changes that affect 457, ENS and RSMS visas

Thus, the introduction of TSS Visa & its structure has varied impact both big and small not just on the applicants but also on the Australia market.

To gain a better understanding of the TSS Visa as per your condition and to explore the possibility of a successful application, you can contact our Immigration Counsellor team. Our registered migration agents are also there to provide critical migration advice. The years of experience has put us in the right position to assess, advice and process any type of Australia Immigration Visa. It will only be wise of you to reach a decision by seeking expert advice. That way you will ensure the best for your future & career.

Book a Consultation with our Immigration Experts

Engineering is a profession that has extensive and plenty of specialised roles. And the world has a plethora of opportunities for Engineers to exhibit their knowledge and flourish creativity. If you are passionate to learn and gain expertise in any Engineering domain, there are many courses you can pursue and make a career in Engineering field of your interest.

Australia, in particular, has some top universities/ institutes to study Engineering; ones that offer a chance at industry-focused practical learning.

What is Engineering?

Engineering is a branch of Science & Technology which concerns with design, analysis, creation, working of structures or systems and its application using scientific and mathematical solutions.

Who are Engineers?

Engineers are competent and skilled people responsible for design, analysis and creation of structures to devise a technological solution taking into consideration its practical use, safety, public costing to make it usable, sellable and marketable.

Australia When compared internationally leads ahead at the third position in terms of quality education and graduate opportunities for international students.

Top Engineering Courses to Pursue in Australia

There is wide range of Engineering disciplines and Australia particularly has amazing and plenty of opportunities to develop skills in diverse disciplines. Some of the most popular ones are:

Computer Engineering

The field of computer is fast booming. The industry is so wide that there is need for specialised professionals. You can pursue your career in studying computer engineering, information technology engineering, computer science, computer and network engineering, computer information system, mobile application development, and so on all of which are related to the field of computers.

Civil Engineering

A civil engineering field, similar to the computer field has many options for specialised courses. It is a broad field and you can take up courses like civil and structural engineering, civil and environmental engineering, architecture and building, building surveying, urban and regional planning, advanced engineering- civil engineering (transport), construction project management, and so on.

Mechanical Engineering

When there is a new product in the market, its efficient solution is also a result of work of mechanical engineering team. They are in demand for their agile skills and critical thinking. Some of the courses include engineering (manufacturing), international automotive engineering, engineering practice- mechanical engineering, robotics and mechatronics engineering, mechatronic engineering, automation and manufacturing systems, and so on.

Electrical Engineer

Electrical Engineering is not just a fascinating field but a highly important one. Imagine your life without the smooth availability of electricity. As technology evolves the need of electrical engineers will be there. There are many interesting courses you can pursue in this field of study like engineering in phonetics, electrical power engineering, professional engineering- electrical, engineering in renewable energy, engineering (electrical and electronic)- entrepreneurship and innovation and such.

Electronics Engineer

Just like the electrical engineers, the electronics engineers are crucial. Both the field of electrical and electronics go hand in hand. This field also requires specific skills for high-end tasks. And thus, there are courses like electronic and computer engineering, nanotechnology, engineering science (network systems and telecommunication), electromaterials, electronic and energy engineering, electronic and sports engineering, electronics and embedded technology, which you can opt.

Best Engineering Institutes Across Australia

Engineering institutes delivering finest education and offering best resources are many in Australia. From Melbourne to Perth, Adelaide, Sydney, Brisbane, Darwin, Hobart, you can find best universities and institutes spread across all of Australia. The scope for Engineers is bright and wide in the land down under.

According to the ranking awarded in 2018 by Times Higher Education’s World University Ranking, there are 35 top universities in Australia and 6 out of them rank in the top 100. Needless to have any more reason or explanation of Australia’s quality of education and its impact on your career. 

These are also ranked in different top positions by QS Top Universities Ranking. The courses they offer are accredited by Engineers Australia.

These institutes will prepare you for the professional roles and impart you with the industry efficient knowledge. Whether you want to work with an international team and manage a project or take up a specialised role or indulge into research work, Australian educational institutes have all the essential resources to offer while allowing you to be as creative and innovative as you would aim.

Check out the entire list here:

https://www.timeshighereducation.com/student/best-universities/best-universities-australia

Benefits of Studying Engineering from Australia

1. Academic Excellence: You will get all the resources and knowledge to enhance your engineering skills

2. Industry Oriented Learning: There is a lot of focus on practical exposure and industry relevant learning.

3. Flexible Learning: The Australian Education system is structured in such a way that it does not burden the students and elevate their talents.

4. Diverse Options: A range of specialisations is available from which you can select your interested field of study. There are undergraduate and postgraduate degree courses that will help you learn at various levels.

5. Specialised courses: For students aiming to pursue career in concentrated studies, there are specialised courses available.

6. Lucrative Employment Prospects: You want to work with tech giants or manifest your own idea, Australia will give you many opportunities to grow, both financially and intellectually.

7. International Student Support: The international students are provided plenty of support right from getting acquainted with the culture and academics to assist with accommodation, internships and so on.

8. Multicultural Environment: Your growth is exponentially boosted by regular interactions with folks coming from different backgrounds and countries. There will be plenty of networking opportunities with chances to land international job.

9. Vocational Courses: The Vocational Education training programs will train you to become qualified Engineering associates and successfully land the job of Engineering Technologist.

10. Migration opportunity: Australia has a high demand for skilled engineers and gives chance to international students who are qualified engineers to get the permanent residency visa.

11. Research Opportunities: Most of the top educational institutes in Australia offer the students plenty of focus for research.

How can you apply for TAFE/ Bachelor / Master or PhD?

You can choose to study courses in particular discipline at different levels, from Technical and Further Education (TAFE) i.e Certificate I-IV, Diploma, Advanced Diploma, to Bachelor, Master, PhD.

You can apply for the relevant degree and select course of your interest. A little bit of research about the various universities and colleges should help. Do check out their syllabus content; what the course has to offer. You can certainly seek assistance from professional education counsellors at Aussizz Group who will help you narrow down the best choices according to your interest, requirements, feasibility and future prospects. An English language proficiency proof is must for the non-native English speakers to enrol in any course and also the basic academic requirements depending on the level of course.

You can opt courses like Master of Engineering Science, Master of Engineering Management if you have inclination towards a more managerial role in the industry. In fact, Australia is home to some of the top universities to pursue master in Engineering. Note, you can even land a scholarship.

Excellent Job Prospectus in Australian job market for Engineers

The requirements for Engineers in Australia have consistently gone up. Engineers Australia has also published the analysis of Engineers Vacancy in different states of Australia. Over the years, the ratio of female engineers has also increased and many universities have encouraged the trend by means of scholarship and other educational support.  

A good number of positions are open for the engineering graduates to take up employment at different levels in an organisation and that too with handsome average annual salary, at least a minimum of $60,000.

Basic Statistics of Average Annual Salary for different Professions:

Source: www.payscale.com

With growing years of Experience, you not only get an international exposure but these annual salaries can go up to more than AU$ 100,000.

Australia Immigration Prospects

Applying for Australia Permanent Residency is a next favourable step to consider after completing education in Australia. For engineers, there are good chances as Australian economy is in need of skilled engineers. Amongst the many ways, applying through SkillSelect Skilled Migration Program is one. If you look at skill select rounds 2018 then you will come to know that occupations like electronics engineers, Industrial, Mechanical and Production Engineers, ICT Business and System Analysts, Software and Applications Programmers, Computer Network Professionals received an invitation to apply for general skilled migration visa subclass 189 and 190. 

Graduates can also gain sponsorship with Australian employers and apply for PR through Employer Nomination Scheme or Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme.

Skill Select Invitation Round for the month of February:

Australia is not by chance a favourite destination for international students to opt higher study. There are pretty rewarding reasons for it. So, if you are still contemplating about international education or studying abroad then consider expert consultation for Australia Education.

Want admission in the best college of Australia? Get in touch with our Education Experts today!

The Australian Department of Home Affairs have released the results for the 21 February 2018 invitation round. Let’s take a look at the numbers!

Number of Invitations Issued

  Cut-offs Required

  Cut-offs & the visa dates of effect for the pro-rate occupations

Some Frequently Asked Questions Regarding SkillSelect Invitation!

What is invitation?

An invitation is generally a permission given by the Australian Immigration Department to apply for the point-based general skilled migration visas. They are issued through Skill Select, which is an online expression of interest system of Australia.

What is Visa date of Effect?

Department of Home Affair invites applications with highest point score to apply for the visa. However, in cases where applicants have achieved equal points scores are invited on the basis of time they got their scores for their visa. Applicants with earlier dates of effect are generally given first priority for invitations. 

What are occupations with pro rata arrangements?

The occupations that received high number of EOI’s than the number of places available in the occupation ceiling, such occupations are called pro-rata occupations. Invitations for pro-rata occupations are limited and subject to higher minimum points or longer waiting procedure times.

Looking for further assistance on skill select invitations works? Book a consultation today with our experts or drop your queries at Aussizz Group Forum.

Nursing as a career has a high demand and always proved to be a rewarding one, both fiscally and emotionally. It also provides an opportunity to make a real difference to the health and wellbeing of people.

If you are an overseas nurse, looking to start career in Australia, then after completing initial registration you can seek employment in the healthcare sector and choose from a wide range of specialisations. Below we have listed the top 10 highly paid ones to assist you in choosing a path that best suits your interests, capabilities and aspirations. 

1. Certified Registered Nurse Anaesthetist

Average Salary:- Approximately between $105K and $130K per annum.
Role:- These nurses work alongside dentists and surgeons and are responsible for preparing the patient and mixing and administering anaesthesia.

2. Nurse Researcher

Average Salary:- Approximately between $75K and $95K per annum.
Role:- A Nurse Researcher is a scientist who researches various aspects relevant to healthcare and nursing and implements the same to improve services and outcomes.

3. Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Average Salary:- Approximately between $70K and $90K per annum.
Role:- These Nurses work with mentally challenged patients at mental health facility, a correctional centre or they run their own independent practise.

Must Read: 5 Visa Options International Nurses Should Know to Work in Australia

4. Certified Nurse Midwife

Average Salary:- Approximately $75K per annum.
Role:- These Nurses work with along with OB/GYN physicians who work with women’s health services and are mainly responsible for dealing with pregnant patients.

5. Paediatric Nurse

Average Salary:- Approximately between $65K to $70K per annum.
Role:- These Nurses work alongside Paediatrician who is responsible for treating children. They find employment in many facilities such as ICU, schools, private clinics etc.

6. Orthopaedic Nurse

Average Salary:- Approximately earn up to $120K per annum.
Role:- These Nurses provide treatment to patients who face mobility problems due to injury or a disorder. They assist with surgery, physical therapy and rehabilitation for these patients.

7. Nurse Practitioner

Average Salary:- Approximately earn up to $65K per annum.

Role:- This is an entry level position. They are the first point of contact to the patients

Also Read: FAQs on English Language Requirement to Study Nursing in Australia

8. Clinical Nurse Specialist

Average Salary:- Approximately between $80K and $100K per annum.
Role:- A clinical nurse specialist is the one who works at senior level to serve patient care and consultation services for an array of health care areas.

9. Geriatric Nurse

Average Salary:- Approximately earn up to $70K per annum.
Role:- These nurses provide care for elderly and ageing patients. Their responsibilities include monitoring mental health, preventative care and medication.

10. Neonatal Nurses

Average Salary:- Approximately earn between $70K to $120K per annum.

Role:- These nurses specialise in the care of babies. They work in nurseries where new born babies are kept before they are discharged.Their responsibilities include:- administering oxygen and medication for new born babies.

Want to get your career started in any of the above specialisations and seeking assistance for the same? Our highly experienced team of counsellors are all ears! Drop all your concerns and queries at Aussizz Group Forum now!

If you are a travel enthusiast and recently moved to Australia, let us tell you that you have landed on the best continent that can fulfil your travel thirst. If you are studying in Australia, then you might be assuming that travelling is for the privileged. But you know what? Australia is one of the cheapest continents to travel if you plan well. If you are living in Sydney or planning to visit Sydney this summer, we have some cool ideas for you.

With summer at its peak, beaches are the go-to destination. If you are living in NSW, the public transports are perfectly laid out that you don’t have to worry about renting a car. As an icing on the cake, you just have to pay $2.60 on Sundays for the entire day. So, what are you waiting for? Pick a beach destination with a pool for this weekend!

Here is how you can have the best leisure time in Sydney!

From the above map, Bondi – Coogee coastal walk is our favourite. This beach is easily accessible by public transport and have several rock pools and baths along the way. There are cafes and restaurants along the main road at walkable distance. They also have a plenty of backpackers’ accommodation in case if you decide to chill a bit longer.

Watsons bay is another must visit spot and is easily accessible through ferry. It also has a fancy light house at a walkable distance which makes it even better. The view from the light house blows away all the stress you built over the week and pumps you up to handle the “Monday blues”.

The 30 minutes’ breezy ferry ride to the Manly beach from Circular Quay will yield you some of the best Facebook cover pictures. A quick tip would be to stand at the back end of the ferry to cover the fascinating bridge and Opera house in your picture. This beach is complimented with a “Party hard shore” with pubs, restaurants and shops nearby. If German beer is your thing, then “The Berewan Bier café” is a definite stop by.

Oh! And you can’t afford to miss this coastal walk from Curl Curl beach to Dee Why beach! Grab a beer from “Lifesaving club” and kick start your coastal walk. As you walk, you will discover two rock pools which you can’t resist from jumping in. You will also walk past a ledge which says “Do not Jump”. Follow the instruction but take that little risk to walk close to the ledge to capture that amazing view.

Finally, the North Narrabeen beach is something you should have in your travel bucket list. It is a nice picnic spot if you want to sit back with your mates or if you want to capture some epic pictures.

Phew! Cool down a bit already. Grab that swimsuit, get started and thank us later

In case you need assistance to get around the city or are looking to get any kind of assistance about education in Australia or Australia Student Visa, then do not hesitate to get in touch at any of our offices

The Australian Skilled – Nominated Visa (subclass 190) is for skilled workers who are nominated by a state or territory. The visa allows to live & work in Australia permanently and include certain family members in the application.

If you are an overseas worker looking to apply for this visa, you need to first submit an Expression of Interest through Skill Select. You are required to score at least 60 points in total, including 5 points from state, on the points test to be eligible for this visa.

To score 60 points in Expression of Interest, you must:

• Nominate an occupation that is listed on the state’s Nominated Occupation List.
• Be under 45 years at the time of nomination.
• Commit to live in the state that nominated you for 2 years from the date of your arrival
• Have a positive General Skilled Migration skills assessment from the relevant authority.
• Have Competent English (IELTS 6 in each band)
• Meet the health and character requirements.

Each state maintains a list of occupations in demand as part of their State Migration Plan. They may also have additional requirements that you are required to meet to be eligible to apply for subclass 190 visa.

Let’s take a look at each of them!

South Australia

• South Australia Nomination Occupation List : 
• Applicants can apply for occupations listed as ‘Available’ or ‘Low Availability’ on the State Nominated Occupation List. Each occupation listed has a planning level which should be reached; the occupation will then be listed as “Special Conditions Apply”. To apply for these occupations, you must meet the requirements listed under Special conditions apply & Supplementary skilled list

One must also have:

• at least one year of skilled work experience (at least 20 hours per week of paid employment) in the past three years (or more in case of higher work experience requirement).
• Evidence for the amount of work experience, if additional work experience is listed for your occupation.
• Sufficient fund to settle in Australia. For South Australia, you should have $20,000 to $40.000 cash depending on the number of dependants on your application.
• the Occupation available for direct application without any special condition.

Canberra ACT

• Canberra ACT Nomination Occupation List https://www.canberrayourfuture.com.au/portal/migrating/article/act-occupation-list/
• If your occupation is ‘closed’ on the ACT Occupation List, you may still be eligible to apply for ACT nomination if you have close ties (job offer or family) in Canberra.
• If you do not have a genuine job offer, you must research the ACT labour market and provide evidence that there are sufficient employment opportunities in your nominated occupation in Canberra.
• Your skills and work experience must be relevant to the nominated occupation and to the ACT economy.
• You must also have access to sufficient financial assets to fund your migration and settlement in Canberra while you seek employment.

Tasmania

• Tasmania Nomination Occupation List: https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/F2017L00850
• You must have received a formal job offer and it should be relevant to your nominated occupation
• You or any of your dependants must not have lived in another Australian state or territory within the last 12 months
• You need to be able to provide evidence of your employment claims
• Your employer must have been actively involved in business in Tasmania for the past 12 months before applying for visa
• There needs to be a genuine need for your position and the business must have the capacity to sustain nominated occupation

Northern Territory

• Northern Territory Nomination Occupation List https://www.australiasnorthernterritory.com.au/migrate/migrate-to-work/northern-territory-government-visa-nomination/nt-migration-occupation-list
• For a number of occupations on N-T Migration Occupation List, you must provide evidence of an offer of employment in your nominated occupation or in a closely related skilled occupation
• You must have evidence of full-time employment in your nominated occupation for at least 12 months out of the last 24 months
• You must also demonstrate of living and working in the Northern Territory Evidence that you have done detailed research into living and working in the NT to show that you have a realistic knowledge of the NT including climate, relocation costs and living expenses.

Victoria

• Victoria Nomination Occupation List 
• Each occupation in Victoria nomination list has got separate English requirement, work experience and additional requirements
• One must have financial resources ranging from $30,000 to $80,000, depending on the number of additional applicants on your application

Western Australia

• Western Australian Nomination Occupation List: https://migration.wa.gov.au/services/skilled-migration-western-australia
• If you are nominating an ANZSCO Major Occupation Group 1 or Group 2 then you must have 7 in each band in IELTS while all other occupations require 6 in each band
• You must have a contract of full time employment for at least 12 months in WA in the nominated occupation
• Sufficient funds to cover your settlement costs.

New South Wales

• NSW has two steam
  Stream One: Occupations on the NSW 190 Priority Occupation List
  Stream Two: Very highly ranking candidates in eligible occupations
  The highest ranking candidates in occupations on the NSW 190 Priority Skilled Occupation List will be invited first.
• No Experience is required for any occupation except cook. Cook occupation will require 2 years of experience.
• If you have 80 points including state nomination but your nominated occupation is not listed in NSW occupation list, then you might have high chances of getting an invitation under stream 2.
• Applicants with IT, Accounting and Engineering as their nominated occupation are required to have higher points to get invitation.

Need further assistance on 190 visa? Drop your queries and get them resolved right away by our experts on Aussizz Group Forum.

OccuSearch is now live! Download now and get information on your eligibility to migrate to Australia.

Nursing has become one of the most popular course choices amongst international students these days. Nurses work closely with different health professionals, patients and their families. They encounter people during the most difficult times of their lives and others during the most exciting times. This makes nursing a career that is both rewarding and versatile.

If you are a nursing aspirant dreaming to jump start your career in the Health sector, then you should have a very clear idea about the entry requirements for various nursing programs. The most important factor that determines admission to a nursing course is the level of English of the student.

Here are some FAQ’s explaining the English language requirement for admission into nursing courses in Australia.

Do I need to provide an English test score for studying nursing in Australia? If yes, what are the acceptable English tests for admission?

Yes, English is an important requirement for admission into nursing program.

The accepted English test results vary per educational provider, but most commonly accepted tests are IELTS (Academic), PTE (Academic), OET and TOEFL iBT.

What is the English Test score I need to study nursing?

Get an IELTS score of 7 Band if you want to study nursing in Australia.

What if I do not meet the English requirement for these courses?

If you do not meet the English language requirement, there are course packages available that can assure you admission to your preferred course.

Do I need to meet English language requirement to qualify for the IRON Program (Bridging program for overseas registered nurses) as well?

Yes, you need to meet the requirement of IELTS 7 each or equivalent score in PTE, OET or TOEFL iBT. For any of the above test, within 6 months of the duration of first exam, results can be combined from two sittings as long as the minimum score for the specific test is reached.

What is the English requirement to get myself registered as an EN (Enrolled Nurse) or an RN (Registered Nurse) in Australia?

This requirement is same as for IRON Program, i.e., you need to have IELTS 7 each or equivalent score in PTE, OET or TOEFL iBT. For any of the above test, within 6 months of the duration of first exam, results can be combined from two sittings as long as the minimum score for the specific test is reached.

Are there any exceptions to this requirement for registration with AHPRA?

There are few exemptions to this standard as below:

1. You don’t have to present any test result if English is your primary language i.e. at least 6 years of your primary and secondary education was taught and assessed in English in any of the recognised countries which are Australia, United States, United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand, The Republic of Ireland and South Africa.
2. Besides, if you have completed five years full-time equivalent of education taught and assessed in English in any of the recognised countries which includes your nursing study.

Must Read – How IRON program is useful for international nurses in Australia?

So if you are looking for more information on Nursing Program in Australia, don’t hold back or delay. Call us right away to book for a Free Consultation with our experienced Education Consultants. It is time to make your international dreams come true.

If you are still hung up on doubts and queries, then just resolve them by asking the Experts on our International Student Forum.