Top 20 Jobs in Demand in Western Australia [2025–2026 Guide]

TL;DR: Western Australia’s skilled migration program is targeting professionals in healthcare, construction, IT, and engineering. According to the WA Migration Services, the 2024–2025 Skilled Migration Occupation List (WASMOL) and Graduate Occupation List (GOL) highlight over 350 in-demand roles, with health, education, and trades dominating. To quickly check your eligibility and points, use the free NovenAI EOI Points Calculator{:target=“_blank”}.

What Are the Most In-Demand Jobs in Western Australia?

Healthcare, construction, engineering, and IT roles lead Western Australia’s skilled occupation lists. According to the official WA Migration Services{:target=“_blank”} website, the state’s 2024–2025 Skilled Migration Occupation List (WASMOL) Schedule 1, Schedule 2, and the Graduate Occupation List (GOL) identify over 350 high-priority roles. These lists are updated regularly to reflect the state’s economic needs, with a strong focus on filling critical skill shortages in both metropolitan Perth and regional areas. Key sectors driving demand include:

• Healthcare & Social Assistance: Nurses, GPs, and aged care workers.
• Construction & Trades: Electricians, carpenters, and plumbers.
• Engineering & Mining: Civil, mechanical, and mining engineers.
• Technology: Software developers, cyber security specialists, and ICT support.

How Does Western Australia’s Skilled Migration Program Work?

Western Australia manages its own skilled migration program through State Nomination, offering a pathway to permanent residency. The process involves receiving an invitation from the state government to apply for a Subclass 190 or 491 visa. To be eligible, your occupation must be on the current WASMOL or GOL, and you must meet the specific criteria set by the state, which often includes a job offer or sufficient work experience. According to the Department of Home Affairs’ official Skilled Visa page{:target=“_blank”}, a valid skills assessment and Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect are mandatory first steps. A tool like the NovenAI Visa Success Predictor{:target=“_blank”} can help you gauge your chances based on the latest invitation round data.

What Is the Western Australia Skilled Migration Occupation List (WASMOL)?

The WASMOL is the official list of occupations that Western Australia is seeking to fill through its state nomination program. It is divided into two schedules: Schedule 1 (high-priority roles) and Schedule 2 (roles with specific caveats, often requiring a job offer). The list is curated based on extensive consultation with industry bodies to address genuine skill shortages within the state. For the most accurate and up-to-date list, always refer directly to the WA Migration Services website{:target=“_blank”}.

What Are the Top 20 In-Demand Jobs in WA for 2025?

Based on the current WASMOL Schedule 1 and industry analysis, the following roles are consistently in high demand:

1. Registered Nurses (Aged Care, Critical Care, Medical)
2. General Practitioners and Resident Medical Officers
3. Software and Applications Programmers
4. Civil Engineers
5. Electricians
6. Construction Project Managers
7. Motor Mechanics
8. Early Childhood Teachers
9. Carpenters and Joiners
10. Plumbers
11. Metal Fitters and Machinists
12. ICT Business and Systems Analysts
13. Social Workers
14. Mining Engineers
15. Chefs
16. Physiotherapists
17. Surveyors and Spatial Scientists
18. Secondary School Teachers
19. Structural Engineers
20. Cyber Security Specialists

Do I Need a Job Offer to Get WA State Nomination?

It depends on your occupation and which list it is on. For occupations on the WASMOL Schedule 2 and the Builders List, a contract of employment for a full-time job in WA (for at least 12 months) is a mandatory requirement. However, for many occupations on the high-priority WASMOL Schedule 1, a job offer is not required, making it a highly attractive pathway for offshore applicants. Always check the specific requirements for your ANZSCO code on the official state website.

What Are the Eligibility Requirements for WA State Nomination?

While specific criteria can change, the general requirements for WA State Nomination include:

• Occupation: Your occupation must be on the current WASMOL or GOL.
• Skills Assessment: A positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.
• Points Test: Meet the points test pass mark (currently 65 points).
• English Proficiency: Competent English or higher (e.g., IELTS 6.0 or equivalent). For some roles, proficient or superior English is required. Unsure of your level? Our English Level Guide{:target=“_blank”} can help.
• EOI: Submit an Expression of Interest in SkillSelect.
• Commitment: Demonstrate a genuine commitment to living and working in Western Australia.

How Can I Increase My Chances of Getting an Invitation from WA?

To stand out in a competitive pool of candidates, you need a strategic approach beyond just meeting the minimum requirements.

• Maximize Your Points Score: Aim for a points score significantly higher than 65. Points can be gained through superior English, proficient partner skills, or years of skilled employment.
• Ensure a Flawless EOI: Your EOI is your first impression. Double-check all details for accuracy and ensure your claims are backed by evidence.
• Stay Updated: Migration policies and occupation lists can change with little notice. Subscribing to a service like NovenAI, which provides instant policy alerts, ensures you never miss a critical update that could affect your application.
• Consider Regional Pathways: The Subclass 491 visa offers more points and can be a faster route to PR for those willing to live and work in regional WA.

What Are the Next Steps After Getting a WA Invitation?

Once you receive that coveted invitation to apply for state nomination, you must act quickly. You typically have a limited time (e.g., 28 days) to lodge your formal application with WA Migration Services. After receiving state nomination, you will then have another 60 days to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. This stage requires meticulous preparation and gathering of documents, including proof of funds, health examinations, and police checks. For complex cases, consulting a registered migration agent is advisable.

Navigating Western Australia’s skilled migration landscape can be complex, but your goal is within reach if you have an in-demand skill. By focusing on the right occupation, maximizing your points, and staying informed of the latest state requirements, you can significantly boost your chances of building a new life in this dynamic part of Australia. Ready to start your journey? Explore your visa options with NovenAI today{:target=“_blank”}.