Skills assessment reform for migrants and local businesses

The Albanese Government has released a discussion paper seeking feedback from stakeholders on the new standards for skilled migration assessing authorities.

The paper sets out draft principles and standards, outlines current skills assessment practices and proposed improvements to the way that skills assessments are conducted.

The current skills assessment process is complex, costly and lengthy, with the completed Migration Review calling for actions to improve and streamline the recognition of overseas skills to help migrants enter the labour market at a level commensurate with their qualifications.

Raising standards will have significant benefits for migrants, employers and industry and ensure skills assessments are being delivered optimally in terms of standards, timeframes, industry requirements and costs.

Skills assessments are required for certain visa subclasses to ensure prospective migrants have the skills, qualifications and experience to meet Australian occupational standards.

The paper is available at https://consultations.dewr.gov.au/best-practice-principles-and-standards-for-skilled-migration-assessing-authorities. Submissions close on Monday 23 October.

Quotes attributable to Minister O’Connor:

“Improving opportunities for Australians to acquire the skills that are in demand, but also working to ensure we have a targeted skilled migration system is an ongoing focus.

“A diverse workforce, which draws skilled workers from within Australia and overseas, will help build a solid foundation for continued economic growth.
 
“There is an international marketplace for skilled workers and we must ensure that we attract and retain the best and the brightest from around the world.”
 
Quotes attributable to Minister O’Neil:
 
“Improving skills assessments is a significant part of the work the government is doing as it develops the Migration Strategy, which will build a better targeted skilled migration system which delivers real benefits for migrants, Australian businesses and the entire Australian economy.
 
“This is another step in rebuilding a migration system which was left broken and dysfunctional by the previous government.”
 
Quotes attributable to Minister Giles:
 
“When the Albanese Government came into office, it was clear that the migration system was broken after a decade of mismanagement from the Liberals.
 
“We understand that there isn’t a binary choice between skilling up Australians and using our migration system to address skills shortages across the country.
 
“We’re committed to making sure our migration system works for all Australians, and improved skills assessment is a significant step towards achieving this goal.”