Navigating the Australian Points-Based System for Skilled Migration

Australia’s Points-Based System for Skilled Migration is a critical tool for the country’s labour migration efforts. This system is designed to attract immigrants who possess specific skills and qualifications that are beneficial to Australia’s needs and objectives. Potential immigrants are evaluated based on a set of criteria, with points awarded accordingly. This article provides an in-depth look at the Points-Based System, explaining the criteria, how points are allocated, and offering strategies for potential immigrants to maximise their points.

Points Requirement

For the year 2023, a minimum of 65 points is required to qualify for the Skilled Migration Points test. However, achieving this minimum score does not guarantee an invitation to apply for a visa, as the actual cut-off can be higher depending on the pool of applicants and the specific needs of the Australian labour market​.

Understanding the Points-Based System

Australia’s Points-Based System is a method of selecting migrants based on a set of criteria that align with the country’s aims and needs. The main areas for which points are awarded include educational qualifications, work experience, and language proficiency. Importantly, the system offers some flexibility, allowing applicants to make up for deficiencies in some areas with strengths in others. The system also allows applicants to migrate without a solid job offer, although those with an employer sponsor may accrue additional points or have their applications prioritised.

Key Criteria for Points Allocation

The allocation of points within the Australian Points-Based System is based on several key criteria. Below is a detailed breakdown of each criterion and how points are allocated:

Age: The system awards points based on the age group of the applicant, with younger applicants receiving more points. The distribution is as follows:

• 18-24 years – 25 points
• 25-32 years – 30 points
• 33-39 years – 25 points
• 40-44 years – 15 points
• 45-49 years – 0 points

English Language Proficiency: Points are awarded based on the applicant’s proficiency in English. Most applicants are required to take an International Language Testing test (IELTS) unless they are native English speakers or have earned a degree from a university where English is the main language of instruction. The points are distributed as follows:

• Superior (IELTS score of 8 or more) – 20 points
• Proficient (IELTS score of 7 or more) – 10 points
• Competent (IELTS score of 6 or more) – 0 points

Skilled Employment: Points are awarded based on previous employment in a relevant skilled occupation, either in Australia or another country. The maximum total points for this criterion is 20 points, which is divided as follows:

In Australia:

• 1 year experience – 5 points
• 3 years experience – 10 points
• 5 years experience – 15 points
• 8 years experience – 20 points

Outside of Australia:

• 3 years experience – 5 points
• 5 years experience – 10 points
• 8 years experience – 15 points

Educational Qualifications: Points are given for the highest level of education achieved that is related to the applicant’s nominated application. The points are distributed as follows:

• Doctorate – 20 points
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree – 15 points
• Australian Diploma or trade qualification – 10 points
• Award or qualification recognised by the assessing authority in the assessment of the skilled occupation – 10 points

Nomination and Sponsorship: Applicants sponsored by an Australian state or Territory government may also receive additional points:

• Nomination by a State or Territory government for a Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) application – 5 points
• Nomination by a State or Territory government for a Skilled Nominated or Sponsored visa (Provisional) (Subclass 489) application – 10 points

Additional Criteria for Points Allocation

In addition to the aforementioned key criteria, the Australian Points-Based System also awards points based on other relevant qualifications and circumstances:

Australian Qualifications: An additional 5 points can be obtained for Australian qualifications such as a degree, diploma, or trade qualification completed in an Australian institution in the last 2 years.

Regional Study Qualifications: An Australian qualification earned in an Australian regional or low population growth metropolitan area also awards an additional 5 points.

Community Language Skills: Community language skills at the translator/interpreter level for one of Australia’s designated community languages can earn an extra 5 points. The language must be recognised by Australia’s National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI).

Spouse/Partner Skills and Qualifications: If the applicant’s partner is included on the Visa application and they are not an Australian resident, their skills can be taken into account for calculating the applicant’s points. However, they must still fulfil the migration basic requirements of age, English language, and nominated occupation. This can contribute an additional 5 points.

Professional Year Experience: An additional 5 points can be awarded if the applicant has completed an approved ‘Professional year’ in Australia in the past 4 years.

Nomination and Sponsorship:

• Nomination by a State or Territory government for a Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) application – 5 points
• Nomination by a State or Territory government for a Skilled Nominated or Sponsored visa (Provisional) (Subclass 489) application – 10 points.

Strategies to Maximize Points

There are also several strategies that potential immigrants can use to maximize their points:

1. Improve English Language Proficiency: Invest time in improving English language skills as a higher proficiency level can significantly increase points. Consider taking English language courses, conversing with native speakers, or using language learning apps to enhance skills.
2. Gain More Relevant Work Experience: Obtaining additional work experience in the nominated occupation or a closely related occupation can improve your points score. Consider taking on new roles or projects, and ensure the experience is well-documented.
3. Upgrade Educational Qualifications: Higher educational qualifications can lead to more points. Consider pursuing further education or obtaining additional certifications in the field.
4. Apply for State or Territory Nomination: Research state or territory nomination options as these can provide a valuable boost to the points score. Each state or territory has its own requirements and occupation lists, so it’s essential to explore options and target the most suitable region for skills and preferences.
5. Leverage Partner Skills: If the spouse or de facto partner meets the age, English language, and skill requirements, their qualifications can contribute to the overall points score. Encourage your partner to improve their English language proficiency and pursue relevant work experience or education to maximise combined points.
6. Study in Regional Australia: Consider studying in Australia, specifically in a regional area. Completing studies in a regional area can earn additional points and may also open up further visa opportunities.

Lastly, it’s recommended to seek professional advice to fully understand the migration process and to tailor a strategy that would best fit an individual’s qualifications and circumstances. This can help maximise the chances of successful migration to Australia using the Points-Based System.