The 2024-25 program year for the Western Australia State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP) is well underway, providing skilled workers from around the world an opportunity to secure state nomination through either the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) or the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491). These pathways allow eligible applicants to live and work in Western Australia (WA) with the potential to eventually become permanent residents.
The state regularly holds invitation rounds, where skilled migrants are invited to apply for nomination based on their Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Department of Home Affairs’ SkillSelect system. This article delves into the latest developments, focusing on the current invitation round held in September 2024.
Invitation Rounds Overview
Western Australia’s SNMP operates through a series of invitation rounds where the state government assesses EOIs and invites suitable applicants based on their occupation, points score, and availability on the WA Skilled Migration Occupation List (WASMOL). The program is split into two visa categories:
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): A permanent visa for applicants willing to live and work in WA.
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491): A provisional visa that requires applicants to live and work in regional WA for a specific period, with a pathway to permanent residency.
Following the invitation process, each round’s results, including the occupations invited and the minimum points required, are published.
September 2024 Invitation Round: Key Highlights
The September 2024 Invitation Round revealed essential trends and details about the current migration priorities for Western Australia. This round offered insights into which occupations are in demand, the points threshold required, and how the state’s labour market needs are evolving.
- Occupations Invited: Various occupations across various industries received invitations. The top industries included healthcare, engineering, education, IT, and construction, reflecting the ongoing demand for skilled professionals in these sectors.
- Points Threshold: The minimum points required for invitations varied by occupation. For instance, applicants in high-demand roles such as registered nurses and engineers required around 75–85 points to secure an invitation. In contrast, some trade occupations had lower points requirements, ranging from 65–70 points.
- High Demand Occupations: Registered Nurses (ANZSCO 2544), Civil Engineers (ANZSCO 233211), and ICT Business Analysts (ANZSCO 261111) were among the highest invited occupations. These roles remain critical for addressing shortages in key sectors like healthcare and infrastructure development.
- Regional Focus: Applicants who committed to working in regional areas of WA, especially under the Subclass 491 visa, had more opportunities to secure invitations. Regional migration continues to be a priority for the state government to ensure the development of regional areas.
Detailed Breakdown of Last Invited by Occupation
The September 2024 invitation round provided precise data on the last invited applicant by occupation. Some of the notable occupations and the required points include:
- Registered Nurses (ANZSCO 2544): 75 points for Subclass 190 and 65 points for Subclass 491.
- Civil Engineers (ANZSCO 233211): 80 points for Subclass 190 and 75 points for Subclass 491.
- ICT Business Analysts (ANZSCO 261111): 85 points for Subclass 190 and 75 points for Subclass 491.
- Electricians (ANZSCO 341111): 65 points for Subclass 190 and 65 points for Subclass 491.
- Carpenters (ANZSCO 331212): 65 points for Subclass 190 and 491.
This data highlights the competitiveness of specific roles while also showcasing opportunities for occupations with lower point thresholds, particularly in the trades and construction sectors.
Pathways to WA Nomination: What You Need to Know
To be considered for a state nomination in Western Australia, applicants must:
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the SkillSelect system.
- Ensure their occupation is on the WA Skilled Migration Occupation List (WASMOL).
- Meet the minimum points requirement, which varies by occupation and visa subclass.
- Commit to living and working in Western Australia, particularly in regional areas, for the 491 visa.
Looking Forward: What’s Next for Western Australia’s SNMP?
With WA’s ongoing emphasis on addressing critical labour shortages and promoting regional development, future invitation rounds are expected to continue targeting high-demand professions. Skilled migrants with relevant qualifications and work experience in healthcare, engineering, and construction will likely remain in high demand.
The September 2024 invitation round reminds prospective applicants to ensure their EOIs are up to date and include accurate information regarding points, employment status, and occupation. Staying informed about Western Australia’s evolving skilled migration needs can significantly improve an applicant’s chances of receiving an invitation.
You can view the entire September 2024 Invitation Round Summary for more detailed insights and specific occupation data.
Conclusion
Western Australia remains a crucial destination for skilled migrants seeking opportunities in metropolitan and regional areas. The 2024-25 SNMP is set to provide more opportunities for applicants who align with the state’s labour market needs. Whether you are a healthcare professional, engineer, or skilled tradesperson, WA’s state nomination program offers multiple pathways to secure a future in Australia.
For expert guidance and tailored advice on improving your chances of securing a visa nomination through Western Australia’s SNMP, Contact Kris Ahn Lawyers and book a consultation with us today! Our team can assist you in navigating the complexities of the skilled migration process and help you achieve your Australian migration goals.
Disclaimer: Not Legal Advice
The information provided in this blog post/article is for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice or create a representative-client relationship. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, the content may not reflect the most current legal developments or specific circumstances.
Do not rely solely on the information presented here – but please book in a consultation with us to see how you this information applies to you and may benefit you. Any reliance on the material in this post is at your own risk.
Australian immigration law is arguably one of the most complex laws in Australia. Seek professional legal advice tailored to your individual needs before making any decisions based on the content of this post.
