Last month we noted the possible reforms focusing on the Skilled Migration Category including the introduction of a Job-ready test and a review of the Migration Occupations in Demand List (MODL).

DIAC have provided some questions and answers about the Job-ready test to be introduced for some trades people (applying for a Skilled Visa after 1st January 2010) as follows:

Q1.What is the Job-ready Test?
The Jobready Test is a part of the assessment process to ensure that people who wish to migrate are able to participate in the labour market in the area of their skills and knowledge. The test is currently being developed by the Government in consultation with industry and unions. The test will initially be applied to trade occupations.

Q2. Why do I have to do it?
A key aim of the GSM program has traditionally been to achieve the migration of "job ready" applicants to supplement the labour market. Employers are looking for employees who are "job ready" and can hit the ground running. Job ready migrants are more likely to find employment quickly, which leads to improved settlement outcomes for migrants. The Job-ready Test will also ensure consistency of skills and competency across migrants.

Q5. Is the testing process for onshore applications the same as offshore?
Yes. The test may vary from occupation to occupation and from one country to another. The Government mar target particular cohorts and occupations from time to time.

Q6. Is the Job-Ready Test the same for all trade occupations?

No, the test may take slightly different forms depending on the occupation, but could be applied to any trade occupation.

Q9. Will the JobReady Test be necessary for all trade occupations?
The test will be targeted towards particular occupations from time to time.

The possible changes to the MODL (Migration Occupation in Demands List) have still not been confirmed, however once again we would suggest that if you have an occupation currently on the MODL list do not delay in lodging your visa application as Regulation 2.26AA of the Migration Regulations will ensure that applicants who apply for a permanent visa when an occupation is on the MODL (Migration Occupation in Demands List), will not be disadvantaged if the occupation is removed from the MODL before the application is finalised.

457 VISAS - SPONSOR'S ATTESTATION

On the 1st April 2009, DIAC announced a requirement for sponsors to attest in writing that they have a strong record of, or a demonstrated commitment to, employing local labour and having non-discriminatory employment practices.

This requirement applies to all new and existing un-finalised sponsorship applications for a subclass 457 visa from 27th June 2009. For applications lodged prior to 27th June 2009, a case officer will notify you in writing on how and when you can make the attestation. For eVisa applications lodged on or after 27th June 2009 there will be an online statement as part of the eVisa application process.

From the 27th June until mid September a separate attestation attachment will be available for submission with paper applications.

If you submit an application without the attestation attached, processing of the application will cease until the document is provided.

If you have any questions relating to the job ready test or the migration occupations in demand list (MODL) please do not hesitate to contact us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or Ph: 92660195 to see if you qualify for employer sponsorship, state or territory nomination, priority IELTS testing, decision ready applications, lodgement of spouse applications, or priority through the critical skills list.