QLD and SA Release New Occupation Lists for 2025-26

Exciting Opportunities for Skilled Migrants in South Australia and Queensland

• South Australia welcomes all skilled occupations for offshore applicants.
• Queensland prioritises engineers, tradespeople, educators and healthcare professionals through 2025-26.
• Registrations of Interest (ROI) for Queensland’s state nomination will open on September 19, 2025.
• Applicants should check official occupation lists to verify eligibility.
• These initiatives highlight the growing demand for international talent, especially from Indian professionals.

South Australia Embraces All Skilled Occupations

South Australia has opened its migration program for 2025-26 to include all skilled occupations. This change aims to ease access for international applicants interested in moving, particularly those from India. Each occupation on the list indicates whether it is available to offshore candidates, clarifying the pathway for potential migrants.

This approach aligns with the increased need for skilled professionals in various sectors throughout South Australia. Cities like Adelaide and regional areas stand to benefit greatly from attracting new talent. With its affordable living, high-quality education, and strong healthcare system, South Australia is becoming a popular destination for skilled migrants seeking a long-term home.

Queensland’s New Focus on Key Sectors

Queensland is responding to its workforce shortages by revising the Queensland Offshore Skilled Occupation List (QSOL) for 2025-26. The state is placing emphasis on critical fields, including engineering, trades, healthcare, and education. This strategy aims to attract skilled global talent to meet demand in these essential areas.

Key roles in demand include civil, electrical, and mechanical engineers, as well as skilled tradespeople, teachers, and healthcare workers like nurses and physiotherapists. Registrations of Interest for these roles will begin on September 19, 2025, creating clearer pathways to permanent residency for offshore candidates.

New Opportunities for Indian Professionals

The recent announcements from South Australia and Queensland represent a positive shift for skilled professionals seeking to migrate to Australia. By widening their occupation lists and simplifying migration processes, both states demonstrate a commitment to attracting global talent. For Indian professionals, this means increased opportunities in sectors such as engineering, healthcare, education, IT, and trades.

With the impending opening of Queensland’s Registrations of Interest and South Australia’s new inclusive approach, skilled migrants have a timing opportunity to apply for state nominations, bringing them closer to achieving permanent residency in Australia.

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