The Australian government’s updated Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) will recognise nine essential automotive trades as part of the 456 occupations eligible under the new Skills in Demand visa and Direct Entry stream of the Employer Nomination Scheme.
Diesel motor mechanic, automotive electrician, panelbeater, vehicle painter, motor mechanic, vehicle body builder, vehicle trimmer, motorcycle mechanic and small engine mechanic have all been recognised as essential skills following long-term advocating from the Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (VACC) and Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA).
The CSOL replaces previous skilled migration lists and forms a crucial component of the government’s reformed temporary skilled migration performance.
It will operate alongside the new Skills in Demand visa, which replaces the previous Temporary Skill Shortage.
VACC CEO Geoff Gwilym says the change in legislation will hopefully ease the pressures on the understaffed automotive industry.
“This is a significant victory for the automotive industry,” Gwilym says.
“The inclusion of these critical automotive occupations acknowledges the severe skills shortages facing our sector and provides a clear pathway for addressing workforce challenges.
“The government’s decision reflects their recognition of the grassroots feedback from our members … this shows what can be achieved when industry voices are heard and supported by robust economic evidence.”
The successful outcome follows extensive advocacy work undertaken by the MTAA and VACC, which included comprehensive analysts from Deloitte Access Economies.
“The evidence-based submission, incorporating detailed wage data and industry insights, clearly demonstrated the critical need for skilled automotive workers in Australia,” Gwilym continues.
“This decision will help address the ongoing workforce challenges faced by automotive businesses across Victoria and nationally.”
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