In a recent development, the South Australian government has unveiled its migration program for the current fiscal year, initiating an invitation for applicants to submit a free Registration of Interest (ROI) for state nomination.
This strategic move follows the state’s allocation of 2,300 visa nomination places for this year, marking a noticeable reduction from the 8,800 spots allocated in the previous fiscal year (2022–23).
A significant alteration introduced this year is the implementation of a new condition for onshore applicants, encompassing both Subclass 190 and Subclass 491 visa categories. Under this new directive, onshore applicants are no longer permitted to directly seek state nomination.
South Australia has transitioned to a Registration of Interest (ROI) process, which mandates that potential applicants must first submit an ROI and subsequently receive an invitation from South Australia to apply for state nomination. The direct application for state nomination is no longer possible under this new framework.
According to a spokesperson from the South Australia government, this adjustment has been made to effectively manage the robust demand from potential applicants already residing and working within the state. They emphasized, “This change brings South Australia in line with all other jurisdictions (except the Northern Territory) to more effectively manage strong demand.”
For offshore applicants, the nomination process remains unchanged, and the state will continue to extend invitations to apply for nomination through Expressions of Interest submitted in SkillSelect.
The spokesperson also highlighted the achievements of the South Australian government in the previous fiscal year, stating, “In 2022-23, the South Australian government successfully met its total allocation of state nomination places, nominating 8,800 skilled migrants across 357 different occupations to support the state’s workforce requirements.”
As South Australia persists in its pursuit of skilled overseas workers to bolster the state’s workforce needs, specific industries are experiencing heightened demand. These include trades and construction, defense, health, education, natural and physical sciences, as well as social and welfare sectors.
The spokesperson further explained, “South Australia is actively seeking highly skilled overseas workers who can contribute significantly to the state’s rapidly expanding industries and projects of national importance. This encompasses individuals with experience in the defense industry and those possessing highly specialized skills in the digital and critical technologies sectors.”
South Australia currently offers over 290 occupation categories open to offshore skilled workers, making it an appealing destination for international students and skilled migrants. Anticipating sustained interest, the state government spokesperson emphasized South Australia’s status as a favored destination for such individuals.
Ranjita Pillai, a distinguished Immigration Lawyer with extensive expertise in migration matters, noted that the implementation of the ROI process for all applicants will simplify the migration process. She stated, “Priority will be accorded to onshore South Australian international graduates, temporary visa holders, as well as experienced offshore workers possessing skills in high demand within South Australia. Additionally, highly skilled workers residing anywhere, who can make substantial contributions to South Australia’s rapidly growing industries and projects of national significance, will also be favored.”
Ranjita also mentioned that South Australia has been allotted 1,100 spots for Subclass 190 visas and 1,200 spots for Subclass 491 visas. This allocation underscores the state’s commitment to attracting and retaining skilled individuals to contribute to its continued growth and development.
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