The aim of the GSM Program is to select migrants who, because of the skills they possess, are more likely to find skilled employment shortly after they arrive in Australia. A high level of English language ability is recognised as being essential for achieving this objective.
The English language requirement for GSM applicants nominating a trade occupation will be increased to a minimum of 6.0 (Competent English) in each of the four components of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test. This increase in the IELTS score brings the English language requirement for trade occupations in line with other occupations for GSM visas, with trade occupations previously exempt from GSM changes introduced in September 2007.
For the provisional GSM visa subclasses, the threshold English language standard will be raised from an average score of IELTS 5.5 to an average score of IELTS 6. The change will affect applicants for the subclass 475 Offshore Skilled - Regional Sponsored and subclass 487 Onshore Skilled - Regional Sponsored Visa.
The increased English language requirement will apply to all new offshore GSM applications lodged after 1 July 2009 with Australian Standard Classification of Occupations (ASCO) Level 4 nominated trade occupations.
The increased English language requirement for onshore GSM applicants will apply from 1 January 2010.
Introduction of a JobReady Test:
The Government is introducing a JobReady Test (JRT) from 1 January 2010 for all GSM applicants nominating trade occupations for migration purposes. This measure complements similar measures previously announced for the subclass 457 visa and is designed to ensure a supply of ‘job ready’ applicants to supplement Australia’s labour market needs. The JobReady Test will also ensure a consistent standard of skills and competencies across trade occupations.
The JRT will ensure that GSM applicants who wish to migrate to Australia are able to successfully compete in the Australian labour market in the area of their nominated occupation.
Details of the JobReady Test are being developed by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations in consultation with the Department of Immigration and Citizenship and key industry stakeholders.
Frequently Asked Questions, click here
Reference: click here
| < Prev | Next > |
|---|
