Edition 50, October 2007

New assessment service for skilled migrants

Tradespeople in selected occupations who want to migrate to Australia are now able to undertake skills assessments in their own countries through a new service provided by a VETASSESS-led consortium.

The service will allow prospective migrants with trade skills to be assessed against agreed Australian standards before arriving in Australia, making it easier for them work as soon as they arrive.

General electricians, cable jointers, electrical powerline tradespersons, general plumbers, motor mechanics, refrigeration and airconditioning mechanics, carpenters, joiners and bricklayers from India, Sri Lanka, South Africa, the United Kingdom and the Philippines will be able to gain access to the service.

An initiative of the Council of Australian Governments as part of its strategy to address skills shortages, the new arrangements relate to qualification, skill assessment and licensing requirements. The service is the first of its type in the world.

Applicants will be provided with a self-assessment tool to determine if they have the required skills and are ready for assessment. They will then apply for assessment in two stages:

  • a competency profile assessment, analysing work experience, trade qualifications and other relevant evidence
  • a technical interview and practical assessment.

Successful applicants will receive an assessment outcome that can be used for migration, an Australian qualification (for non-licensed trades) and an Offshore Technical Skills Record that entitles the holder to a provisional licence for licensed trades. These documents can be presented to employers, registered training organisations and regulatory authorities.

Unsuccessful applicants will be provided with a detailed assessment outcome that will provide guidance on additional training and/or work experience required to meet standards.

Information about the assessment process and requirements is available to prospective applicants and migration agents through various channels including the internet, brochures and a 24 hour enquiry service.

For more information visit www.vetassess.com.au (Select 'Trade skills assessment for migration'), email tradeassess@vetassess.com.au or phone (03) 9655 4836.

This page was generated on 18 February, 2010