Australia is getting ready to make major updates to its skilled migration program starting May 2025. These changes will create exciting new chances for talented people from all over the world to live and work in Australia.
The updates are based on the new Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), which was first launched in December 2024. Now, the Australian government has expanded this list to include even more important and in-demand jobs that are needed for key visa programs.
Australia’s updated skilled migration system starting in May 2025 is a big win for tech and cybersecurity professionals worldwide. With the new Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), it’s now simpler and faster to qualify for visas, get job offers, and even achieve permanent residency.
If you have skills in data science, cybersecurity, DevOps, or related fields, this is your chance to build a great future in Australia!
What is the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL)?
The Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) is a new, simpler list of jobs that are eligible for Australia’s skilled work visas. It started on December 7, 2024, and replaced older occupation lists that were harder to understand.
Purpose of the CSOL:
- Make it easier to connect skilled workers with industries that need them most.
- Focus on fast-growing industries like artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and information technology (IT).
- Keep the list updated regularly by checking what the job market really needs.
The CSOL is important for major visas like:
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
- Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482)
- Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
New Jobs Added to the CSOL in 2025
In 2025, Australia added ten new technology and cybersecurity jobs to the CSOL. These jobs were approved after review by the Australian Computer Society (ACS). If you have skills in any of these new areas, you can now apply for certain skilled visas more easily.
Here are the new jobs:
1. Data Analyst
- Analyzes large sets of data.
- Helps businesses like banks, hospitals, and tech companies make better decisions.
2. Data Scientist
- Works with AI and big data.
- Predicts trends and solves tough problems using data.
3. Cyber Security Engineer
- Designs strong security systems.
- Protects computer networks from cyber attacks.
4. DevOps Engineer
- Combines software development and IT operations.
- Makes software deployment faster and more reliable.
5. Penetration Tester
- Also called an “ethical hacker.”
- Tests security systems by trying to break into them, to find weak points.
6. Cyber Security Analyst
- Watches over computer systems for attacks.
- Quickly responds to any security problems.
7. Cyber Security Architect
- Designs complete cybersecurity plans.
- Builds strong protections for companies.
8. Cyber Governance Specialist
- Makes sure companies follow cybersecurity laws and rules.
- Writes security policies for organizations.
9. Cyber Security Advisor
- Advises businesses on how to manage cyber risks.
- Helps improve security strategies.
10. Cyber Security Operations Coordinator
- Manages security operations centers.
- Organizes the response to cyber incidents.
Visa Options Available Under the New CSOL
If your job is on the CSOL, you have three main visa options to move to Australia:
1. Skilled Independent Visa
- Permanent visa (you can stay forever).
- No employer or state sponsorship needed.
- You can live and work anywhere in Australia.
Main Requirements:
- Your occupation must be listed on the CSOL.
- Score at least 65 points on the Australian points test.
- Get a positive skills assessment.
- Show English skills at IELTS 6.0 or similar.
This visa gives you the most freedom because you don’t need a job offer or sponsor.
2. Skills in Demand Visa
- Temporary visa but offers a path to permanent residency.
- Employer sponsorship needed.
Main Requirements:
- A job offer from an approved Australian employer.
- Have the right skills and qualifications.
- English language ability at least IELTS 5.0.
- At least two years of work experience in your field.
This visa lets you move quickly to Australia and, over time, apply for permanent residency.
3. Employer Nomination Scheme
- Permanent visa through employer nomination.
- Ideal for those wanting long-term job stability.
Main Requirements:
- Get nominated by an Australian employer.
- Positive skills assessment.
- At least three years of related work experience.
- English proficiency at IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.
This is a great choice if you already have good experience and want a secure future in Australia.
Why These Changes Matter for Skilled Workers
The expanded CSOL shows that Australia is serious about hiring more tech and cybersecurity experts. It makes it easier for professionals to find a clear, direct path to living and working in Australia.
Key Benefits for Professionals:
- Easier visa eligibility for technology-related occupations.
- Clearer and faster pathways to permanent residency.
- Better matching of workers with what Australian employers need.
- New occupations officially recognized and validated by experts like the Australian Computer Society.
READ MORE: How to Travel to the U.S. Without a Visa: Everything You Need to Know
