South Australia has long been one of Australia’s most attractive destinations for skilled migrants. Known for its vibrant cities, high quality of life, and diverse economy, the state has actively sought to attract talent from around the world to fill skill shortages. The 2024-25 skilled migration nomination allocation opens up new opportunities for professionals in key sectors, especially those with expertise verified by reputable Assessment Authorities like CPA Australia. In this post, we’ll explore the highlights of South Australia’s allocation for 2024-25, discuss how the CPA Australia skills assessment can support your application, and explain the process to successfully migrate to Australia under South Australia’s skilled nomination pathways.

South Australia’s 2024-25 Skilled Migration Nomination Allocation

In the 2024-25 program year, the Australian government allocated a set number of skilled nomination places for each state and territory, allowing regions like South Australia to address critical skill shortages. These allocations form a vital part of the state’s economic strategy, enabling South Australia to attract skilled workers who can contribute to its growth and development.

This year, South Australia has focused on increasing invitations for highly skilled professionals in sectors like healthcare, information technology, finance, engineering, and education. These targeted industries align with South Australia’s long-term economic priorities, which include building a knowledge-based economy and supporting rural and regional growth.

The allocation allows South Australia to issue invitations for two major streams:

1. Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190): A permanent visa for skilled migrants nominated by the state.
2. Skilled Work Regional Visa (subclass 491): A provisional visa for skilled workers who agree to live and work in regional South Australia.

Applicants interested in these streams need to meet specific requirements, including an approved skills assessment in their nominated occupation. For financial and accounting professionals, the CPA Australia skills assessment is often a crucial part of the application process.

The Role of CPA Australia Skills Assessment in the Migration Process

For those planning to migrate to Australia as accountants or finance professionals, an assessment from CPA Australia is required to verify skills and qualifications. CPA Australia, a designated Assessment Authority, is responsible for evaluating whether your qualifications, experience, and competencies meet the standards required by the Australian government.

Here’s a breakdown of how the CPA Australia skill assessment plays a role in your migration process:

1. Assessment of Qualifications: CPA Australia assesses whether your educational qualifications align with Australian standards. For example, if you hold an accounting degree from a foreign university, CPA Australia will evaluate its equivalency to Australian accounting qualifications.
2. Work Experience Verification: In addition to qualifications, CPA Australia reviews your work experience to determine if it aligns with Australian industry standards. Relevant experience often adds significant weight to your application, particularly if it’s recent and full-time.
3. English Proficiency Requirements: CPA Australia assesses English language proficiency as part of the skills assessment for candidates from non-English-speaking countries. High scores on tests like IELTS or PTE Academic can support your application for skilled migration.
4. Issuance of an Assessment Outcome: Once you meet the requirements, CPA Australia issues a positive assessment outcome, which is an essential document for submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) for the subclass 190 or 491 visa.

South Australia’s Nomination Criteria: What You Need to Know

South Australia’s nomination process is points-based, and applicants need to submit an EOI through SkillSelect, the federal government’s online system. After submitting an EOI, applicants expressing interest in South Australia’s nomination must also meet specific state-based criteria, which often include the following:

• Points Requirement: South Australia requires a minimum of 65 points to be eligible, but higher scores improve your chances of being invited.
• Occupation in Demand: The state’s occupation list outlines roles with high demand in sectors like healthcare, IT, finance, and engineering. Applicants must nominate an occupation on this list.
• Skills Assessment: A positive outcome from a relevant Assessment Authority—such as CPA Australia skills assessment for accounting roles—is mandatory.
• Commitment to South Australia: Subclass 491 visa holders need to live and work in regional South Australia for three years before becoming eligible for permanent residency.

Meeting South Australia’s criteria can be complex, especially for international applicants unfamiliar with Australian immigration policies. Seeking professional advice can help clarify requirements and ensure compliance.

Why South Australia Is a Prime Choice for Skilled Migrants

South Australia is an ideal destination for skilled migrants due to its robust economy, affordable cost of living, and balanced lifestyle options. Cities like Adelaide are known for their relaxed, family-friendly environment, while regional areas offer additional incentives for migrants willing to live and work outside the urban centers.

The state provides a variety of support programs to help new migrants settle and succeed. From career services and educational support to access to health care and housing assistance, South Australia goes the extra mile to help skilled migrants build a life in their new home.

Steps to Migrate to Australia Through South Australia’s Skilled Migration Program

1. Choose an Occupation: Identify an occupation on South Australia’s skilled occupation list that aligns with your experience and qualifications.
2. Obtain a Skills Assessment: For financial and accounting professionals, a CPA Australia skills assessment is required. Start this process early to allow sufficient time for qualification checks and experience verification.
3. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Use SkillSelect to lodge an EOI for the subclass 190 or subclass 491 visa, specifying South Australia as your preferred state.
4. Apply for State Nomination: If South Australia is interested in your profile, they will issue an invitation to apply for state nomination. Complete the application accurately to avoid delays.
5. Prepare for the Move: After securing your visa, plan your move to South Australia by exploring housing, schools, and employment options in advance.

Final Thoughts: Seek Professional Guidance for a Successful Application

Applying for skilled migration is a competitive and often complex process. With the right preparation, a clear understanding of Assessment Authority requirements, and a positive CPA Australia skill assessment, your chances of success increase significantly. For those unfamiliar with Australia’s immigration policies, seeking guidance from migration consultants can help streamline the process and avoid costly mistakes.

For skilled professionals aspiring to migrate to Australia, South Australia’s 2024-25 skilled migration nomination allocation presents an exciting opportunity to build a future in one of the country’s most dynamic and welcoming states. By aligning your qualifications with South Australia’s targeted industries and securing the necessary skills assessment, you’re well on your way to making Australia your new home.