If you are planning to study in Australia and later apply for a permanent visa, you may already know about the Australian Skilled Occupation List. This list is very important because it tells you which jobs are in demand in Australia. If your course leads to one of these jobs, you have a better chance of getting a skilled worker visa or even permanent residency (PR).
But here’s the confusing part: many students don’t know which courses actually connect to the skilled list. You might be thinking, “Should I study IT, management, or maybe automotive training?” Don’t worry. In this article, I will explain everything in simple and clear language so you can understand which courses can really help you qualify.
What is the Australian Skilled Occupation List (SOL)?
The Skilled Occupation List is a list prepared by the Australian government. It shows which jobs are in shortage across the country. When there are not enough local workers for certain jobs, the government allows international students and skilled migrants to fill those gaps.
This list is used for:
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Skilled worker visa applications.
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General skilled migration (GSM) program.
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Permanent residency (PR) applications.
If your future job is on this list, you can apply for skilled visas like the subclass 189, 190, or 491 visas after your studies. That is why choosing the right course is so important.
Why the Skilled Occupation List Matters for International Students
When you choose to study in Australia, you don’t just want a degree. You also want a career pathway and maybe a chance to live in Australia long-term. The Skilled Occupation List connects your study to your future.
Here’s why it matters to you:
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If your course leads to a job on the list, you have a better chance of getting PR.
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If your course is not linked to the list, it may be harder to apply for skilled visas.
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Studying the right course can give you extra points for migration.
For example, IT professionals, engineers, healthcare workers, and trade workers are often on the skilled list. If you complete a course in one of these areas, you can apply for jobs that are already in demand.
Popular Courses in Perth That Link to the Skilled Occupation List
Now let’s look at the courses that are linked with the Skilled Occupation List and can help you qualify for visas in Australia.
Information Technology Courses
Technology skills are in high demand in Australia. If you are good at computers, networking, or systems management, you will find many opportunities.
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Certificate IV in Information Technology – This course is a starting point for IT skills.
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Diploma of Information Technology – Builds your advanced knowledge in networking, support, and cybersecurity.
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IT Networking Courses in Perth – These are very practical and give you direct skills for jobs.
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Information Systems Management Diploma – Prepares you for IT leadership and system management roles.
Jobs linked to these courses often appear on the Skilled Occupation List, such as ICT Support Engineer, Systems Administrator, and Software Specialist.
Leadership and Management Courses
Australia also needs skilled leaders and managers in many industries. By studying management, you can prepare for roles that involve running teams and businesses.
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Diploma of Leadership and Management – Teaches you how to manage teams, projects, and resources.
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Advanced Diploma of Leadership and Management – Builds higher-level leadership skills.
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Graduate Diploma of Management Learning – Focuses on advanced management, training, and leadership development.
These courses can help you qualify for jobs such as Business Manager, Operations Manager, and Training Manager. Many of these roles are connected to the skilled migration list.
Automotive Technician Training
If you like working with cars, then automotive training is a great option. Australia has a shortage of skilled technicians in this trade.
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Automotive Technician Training in Australia teaches you practical skills to repair, maintain, and service vehicles.
This course can lead to jobs such as Motor Mechanic or Automotive Electrician, which are usually listed on the Skilled Occupation List. This makes it a strong pathway for migration.
Vocational Education and Training (VET) Courses
VET colleges in Perth are very popular with international students. VET courses are hands-on and prepare you for real jobs.
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These courses are CRICOS registered and give you nationally recognized qualifications in Australia.
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VET courses are often linked with in-demand industries like IT, trades, healthcare, and management.
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By studying a VET course, you don’t just get theory — you get skills that are directly needed in the workforce.
Many jobs from the VET pathway are included in the skilled occupation list, making it easier for you to apply for migration visas.
How Studying in Perth Helps You Qualify
You might be wondering: why Perth? Let me explain.
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Regional area advantage: Perth is now considered a regional city for migration purposes. This means you get extra PR points if you study and work in Perth.
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Lower cost of living: Compared to Sydney and Melbourne, Perth is more affordable.
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High-quality universities and colleges: You get access to top education and practical training.
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CRICOS registered courses: These are approved for international students and recognized by the Australian government.
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Nationally recognized qualifications: Once you finish your course, your certificate is valid across Australia.
By studying in Perth, you not only save money but also increase your chances of qualifying for skilled visas.
City College: A Pioneer Training Provider in Perth
When choosing a course, it’s very important to select a trusted college. City College in Perth is one of the pioneer training providers offering:
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CRICOS registered courses for international students.
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Nationally recognized qualifications in Australia.
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Courses in Leadership and Management, Information Technology, and Automotive Training.
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Strong international student support services to help you settle in and succeed.
By studying at City College, you prepare yourself for a career and also put yourself on the right track for migration opportunities.
Conclusion
The Australian Skilled Occupation List is your roadmap if you want to build a future in Australia. By choosing the right course, you can study, find a job, and even qualify for permanent residency.
Whether you are interested in IT, leadership and management, or automotive training, studying in Perth gives you both education and migration advantages. And with a pioneer like City College, you can be sure your course is recognized, accredited, and linked to real opportunities.
So, if you are serious about studying in Australia and planning your future, look closely at the Skilled Occupation List — it will show you the way, and the right course will take you there.
FAQs
Q1. What is the Skilled Occupation List in Australia?
It is a list of jobs that are in high demand in Australia. The government uses this list to decide who can apply for skilled visas and permanent residency.
Q2. Can studying in Perth help me with PR in Australia?
Yes. Perth is a regional city, which gives you extra PR points. Studying in Perth also offers you nationally recognized qualifications that lead to skilled jobs.
