Top 10 In-Demand Occupations on the Australian Core Skills Occupation List [2025–2026 Guide]

Meta Description: Discover which occupations are on the Australian Core Skills Occupation List (ACSOL) for 2025–2026. Learn how this list works for state nomination and get expert tips to strengthen your skilled visa application.

Slug: australian-core-skills-occupation-list-guide

TL;DR
The Australian Core Skills Occupation List (ACSOL) is a specialised list of in-demand occupations used by the state of South Australia for its skilled migration programs. Occupations on the ACSOL are eligible for state nomination, which can significantly boost your chances of receiving a visa invitation. Key sectors include healthcare, engineering, IT, and trades, with specific requirements like work experience and English proficiency varying per role. To navigate the complex state nomination process efficiently, tools like NovenAI’s Visa Success Predictor can provide personalised guidance based on the latest state policies.

What is the Australian Core Skills Occupation List (ACSOL)?

The Australian Core Skills Occupation List (ACSOL) is the skilled occupation list specifically used by the government of South Australia for its State Nominated migration programs. According to the official Migration South Australia website, the ACSOL identifies occupations that are in high demand within the state’s economy. If your occupation is on this list and you meet South Australia’s specific criteria, you may be eligible to apply for state nomination. This nomination adds valuable points to your SkillSelect Expression of Interest (EOI) and is a critical pathway for visas like the Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated visa) and Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa). It’s important to understand that the ACSOL is distinct from the federal Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL), as it reflects South Australia’s unique labour market needs.

• State-Specific List: The ACSOL is managed and updated by the South Australian government, not the federal Department of Home Affairs.
• Pathway to Nomination: Being on the list is the first step; you must also meet South Australia’s specific requirements for work experience, English level, and commitment to living in the state.
• Dynamic and Competitive: The list and its requirements (like available spots or “caps”) are reviewed and can change throughout the program year based on demand.

How is the ACSOL Different from Other Skilled Occupation Lists?

The ACSOL is different from other skilled occupation lists because it is curated specifically for South Australia’s regional and economic needs, whereas federal lists have a national scope. The main federal lists are the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL), which are used for visas like the Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent visa). According to the Department of Home Affairs’ Skilled Visa pages, the MLTSSL and STSOL determine basic eligibility for skilled visas. In contrast, the ACSOL is a tool for state nomination. An occupation can be on the federal lists but not on the ACSOL if South Australia does not currently need those skills, and vice versa. For example, a trade occupation in high demand in South Australia might be on the ACSOL but not eligible for the independent 189 visa. This is why checking the correct list for your target visa and location is paramount.

• MLTSSL (List 1): For independent points-tested visas (e.g., Subclass 189) and some employer-sponsored streams.
• STSOL (List 2): Primarily for the Subclass 190 state nomination and some employer-sponsored visas, often requiring state sponsorship.
• ACSOL (South Australia’s List): A subset of eligible occupations for South Australian state nomination only, with its own additional criteria.

Which High-Demand Occupations Are Typically on the ACSOL?

While the ACSOL is updated annually, certain sectors consistently feature due to South Australia’s economic priorities. Typically, high-demand occupations span healthcare, engineering, information technology, and skilled trades. For the 2025–2026 period, based on recent trends and official state publications, the following sectors are perennially strong:

1. Healthcare & Social Assistance: Registered Nurses, Midwives, General Practitioners, Psychologists, and Social Workers are almost always in demand.
2. Engineering & Construction: Civil Engineers, Structural Engineers, Electrical Engineers, and Surveyors are critical for infrastructure projects.
3. Information & Communication Technology (ICT): Software Engineers, Developers (Python, Java), Security Specialists, and ICT Project Managers.
4. Skilled Trades: Electricians, Plumbers, Carpenters, and Metal Fitters are essential for construction and manufacturing.
5. Education: Secondary School Teachers, particularly in specialised fields like Mathematics and Science.

To get the most accurate, real-time view of which occupations are currently open and their specific requirements (like minimum points, experience, or English scores), you should consult the official South Australian skilled migration occupation lists. For personalised planning, using a smart tool like NovenAI’s Visa Success Predictor can help you assess your profile against the latest ACSOL criteria and South Australia’s nomination rules.

What Are the General Requirements for South Australian State Nomination?

The general requirements for South Australian state nomination involve meeting both the Department of Home Affairs’ visa criteria and South Australia’s specific conditions. First, you must have an occupation on the ACSOL and a suitable skills assessment. South Australia then sets additional hurdles, which often include a minimum points score (frequently 65 points, but competitive occupations may require more), a proficient or superior English language level (IELTS 7 or 8 equivalent), and relevant work experience. Crucially, you must demonstrate a genuine commitment to living and working in South Australia. The state prioritises applicants who are already working in South Australia, recent graduates from South Australian institutions, or those working in regional South Australia. Requirements can differ between the Subclass 190 (permanent) and Subclass 491 (provisional regional) visas.

• Skills Assessment: A positive assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your ACSOL occupation is mandatory.
• English Language: Proficient (e.g., IELTS 7) or Superior (e.g., IELTS 8) English is commonly required. You can check the precise requirements for your target visa with tools like the NovenAI English Level Guide.
• Commitment: A genuine intention to reside in South Australia, often demonstrated through research, job applications, or existing ties.
• EOI Points: You must have at least 65 points in SkillSelect, but higher scores are more competitive. Accurately calculating your points is vital, which you can do with the NovenAI EOI Points Calculator.

How Do I Apply for Nomination Under the ACSOL?

To apply for nomination under the ACSOL, you must follow a multi-step process that begins long before the official application. First, ensure your occupation is on the current ACSOL and that you meet all the base requirements for your chosen visa subclass (190 or 491). Next, obtain a positive skills assessment and complete your English language test. Then, submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect, selecting South Australia as your nominating state. If South Australia invites you to apply for nomination, you will receive an email and must submit a detailed application through the Migration South Australia portal within the specified timeframe (usually 14 days). This application will require evidence of your points, work experience, English ability, and commitment to South Australia. The state government will then assess your application and, if successful, nominate you, allowing you to receive an invitation from Home Affairs to apply for the visa.

• Step 1: Check the ACSOL and meet all criteria (skills assessment, English, experience).
• Step 2: Submit an EOI in SkillSelect for Subclass 190 or 491, nominating SA.
• Step 3: Wait for an invitation to apply (ITA) from South Australia.
• Step 4: Lodge a complete state nomination application with all supporting documents.
• Step 5: Upon nomination, apply for the visa with the Department of Home Affairs.

Can I Get Nominated if I Am Living Overseas?

Yes, you can be nominated by South Australia while living overseas, but the competition is often fiercer and the criteria may be more stringent. South Australia’s nomination program typically has different streams, such as “Offshore” and “South Australian Graduates.” The offshore stream is usually highly competitive, with occupations often having additional requirements like higher points scores, superior English, or several years of skilled work experience. Some occupations on the ACSOL may only be available to applicants who are already working in South Australia or are recent graduates. Therefore, while an offshore application is possible, you must carefully review the specific conditions listed for your occupation on the official state website, as they can change with little notice.

• Check Specific Conditions: Each occupation on the ACSOL may have notes like “Offshore applicants require 5+ years experience” or “Available to SA Graduates only.”
• Higher Benchmarks: Be prepared for potentially higher points and English requirements compared to onshore applicants.
• Demonstrate Commitment: As an offshore applicant, your research into the South Australian job market and lifestyle must be particularly thorough to prove genuine intent.

What Happens if My Occupation is Removed from the ACSOL?

If your occupation is removed from the ACSOL after you have submitted an EOI but before you receive a nomination invitation, you will no longer be eligible for state nomination from South Australia for that occupation. State occupation lists are dynamic, and the South Australian government can close or remove occupations at any time if quotas are filled or labour needs change. This is a common challenge in skilled migration, highlighting the importance of acting promptly once you are eligible and having a flexible strategy. If your occupation is removed, you may need to explore nomination from another state or territory, consider an employer-sponsored visa, or wait to see if your occupation is reinstated in a future update. Staying informed through official channels is critical.

• Monitor Updates: Regularly check the Migration South Australia website for list changes.
• Have a Plan B: Research other state nomination programs or visa pathways for your occupation.
• Act Quickly: Submit your EOI and be prepared to apply as soon as you meet the criteria, as spots can fill fast.

How Can I Improve My Chances for South Australian State Nomination?

You can improve your chances for South Australian state nomination by maximising your points score, exceeding the minimum requirements, and proactively demonstrating your commitment to the state. Aim for a points score well above 65 by improving your English to Superior level, gaining more skilled work experience, or undertaking relevant study in Australia. If possible, securing a job offer in South Australia is a significant advantage. For offshore applicants, conducting detailed research on the state’s industries and tailoring your application to show how your skills meet specific local needs can strengthen your case. Using a dedicated migration planning platform like NovenAI can give you an edge, as it continuously monitors policy changes, provides tailored advice for South Australia’s program, and helps you optimise every element of your profile against the latest ACSOL requirements.

• Maximise Points: Use every avenue (English, experience, partner skills, NAATI) to boost your EOI score.
• Exceed Minimums: Aim for Superior English and substantial work experience where possible.
• Show Commitment: Research employers, connect with professional networks in SA, and articulate a clear settlement plan.

Navigating the Australian Core Skills Occupation List is your gateway to a skilled visa through South Australia. Success hinges on meticulous preparation, meeting both federal and state-specific criteria, and presenting a compelling case for your contribution to the state’s future. The process is detailed, but by using the right tools and staying informed directly from official sources, you can build a strong application. For a streamlined, intelligent approach to managing your entire migration journey—from calculating points to predicting your nomination chances—explore how NovenAI can be your 24/7 guide. Start planning your pathway with confidence at NovenAI.com.