Summary
The ANZSCO stands for the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupation, in this instance, specifically managers. Managers can be described as individuals who plan, organize, direct and control the tasks and responsibilities of employees and operational duties within organizations.
There are strict conditions surrounding entry to both Australia and New Zealand so it is critical to know whether you satisfy those requirements before you determine your eligibility for a manager position. What is clear is that to qualify for any of the manager ANZSCO positions, a bachelor’s degree is required as a minimum.
Standard Classification of Occupation
The standard classification of occupations is relevant to international applicants seeking qualified employment within Australia and New Zealand. The standard classification sets out the requirements and guidelines required under the positive skills assessment.
This may include, required education level, experience level, visa eligibility, etc. Most importantly, applicants must be able to provide a demonstrated economic contribution to society.
Major Group 1 Managers
There are different criteria required between the New Zealand and the Australian standard classification for overseas applicants. It is important to know the difference between the two to ensure applicants qualify for the right criteria.
To qualify for a manager position within Australia, specifically ANZSCO skill level 1, the following is required;
A bachelor’s degree or higher qualifications; or
At least 5 years of relevant experience may be a substitute for the formal qualification
To qualify for a manager position within Australia, specifically ANZSCO skill level 2, the following is required;
AQF Associate Degree, Advanced Diploma or Diploma; or
At least three years of relevant experience.
To qualify for a manager position within Australia specifically ANZSCO skill level 1, the following is required;
Bachelor degree or higher qualification; or
At least five years of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualification.
To qualify for a manager position within Australia specifically ANZSCO skill level 2, the following is required;
A NZ Register Diploma; or
At least three years of relevant experience.
On the job training may also be required to fill any gaps in knowledge and experience. Tasks required for the position may incldue;
setting the overall direction and objectives of organisations and departments within organisations
formulating, administering and reviewing policy and legislation to ensure organisational and departmental objectives are met
directing and coordinating the allocation of assets and resources
directing, controlling and coordinating the activities of organisations and departments, either personally or through senior subordinate staff
monitoring and evaluating overall organisational and departmental performance, and adjusting policies, rules and regulations to ensure objectives are met
representing the organisation at official occasions, in negotiations, at conventions, seminars, public hearings and forums, and liaising between areas of responsibility.
Hypothetical Scenario
Grace lives in England and wants to move to South Australia and take up a manager position. She has worked in a related occupation for the last 10 years and has also engaged in volunteer positions which have provided directly relevant experience. Grace has looked at the eligibility criteria and she has considered the applicant’s skills assessment component of the position.
The eligibility requirements sought that Grace have completed a bachelor’s degree or higher for the Skill level 1 position and that she be interested in ongoing full-time employment. There is also a requirement that she have some experience working within a closely related occupation.
She satisfies the requirements and is able to obtain the job. It provides an average salary.
Economic and Social Contributions
Any overseas applicant seeking to obtain a visa for employment within Australia is screened for what type of economic contribution or social contribution they may provide to the community. For example, some positions may require applicants which are PHD or doctorate graduates because that is the specific skill which is required in Australia.
Holistically, applicants are assessed for the other benefits they may bring, but applicants can be rejected based on criminal history, or health factors. For example, if an applicant has a criminal history this can indicate a risk to society if they are allowed entry. Similarly, applicant’s scan be refused as a result of health factors despite their eligibility. It is critical to try and decrease strain against the Australian health system, not increase it.
Skilled Employment
Skilled employment refers to positions which require specific skills, qualities or experience in order for them to be carried out. For example, an individual could not work as a doctor without a medical degree, or a lawyer without a law degree. The position may require one or more qualifications depending on the criteria.
The necessary skills may not relate specifically to a degree or formal qualification and may simply only require a graduate certificate, period of experience or relevant award. Employment requirements can even be specific about whether female employees or male employees are required for the position.
Hypothetical Scenario
Alexis is living in South Australia on a current Australian Visa and is waiting to become an Australian resident. She has made a genuine commitment to living and working within Australia and is hoping to remain in the state via a state visa sponsorship while she awaits her citizenship. She is looking into whether she needs to apply for a bridging visa (subclass 190).
Alexis is classed as a skilled regional worker as she has a medical degree and therefore is part of the priority occupation stream. Her medical degree was completed at one of the accredited educational institutions in Africa Alexis is closely related to an eligible relative who has recently become an Australian citizen and therefore she has a good chance of sponsorship.
Australian Capital Territory Act Critical Skills List
The critical skills list identifies the current jobs and positions which are in demand within the ACT. It is a user-friendly website where eligible international workers can see which positions are available for them to apply for. The list is particularly important for those seeking to apply under the following Australian visa options;
Skilled Work Regional Visa (subclass 491); and
Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190).
Most occupations will require either a bachelor or post graduate degree or alternatively, a period of relevant experience.
PHD or Doctorate Graduate
A PHD or Doctorate are some of the highest forms of tertiary education that can be completed. This level of education will not always be required for critical skilled work but some positions will. For example, the Stem or agriculture fields may require a more comprehensive understanding of the field to undertake the work.
For example and eligible New Zealand citizen may be applying for a position within Australia through the NT job offer stream under the 491 visa. They may be in competition with other applicants for a position within the farming industry related to economical and sustainable year-round crops. Whilst other individuals may have appropriate qualification and training, a candidate may have completed PHD study on the topic and have an Indepth knowledge of climate change and other factors which will ultimately impact the work. They would therefore be a better investment.
Processing Times
Processing times for visa applications can vary but they are not a quick process. Processing times offshore applicants can be months if not years regardless of whether individuals meet the minimum criteria. Certain visa applications can be fast tracked if they relate to a nominated occupation or the applicant is nominated by an employer for an eligible occupation.
Processing times can relate to whether the position is advertised within a designated regional area or whether the individual is already within the country on a different visa. If this is the case, then the individual may be able to remain while the new one is processed.
Hypothetical Scenario
Adam is living in New Zealand and seeking to apply for a skilled level 2 manager position in New South Wales. He has not completed a bachelor’s degree however he has been fortunate to gain 8 years’ experience within a relevant industry. He has been able to demonstrate full time employment skills in this area.
He is seeking employment with a well-established business
Conclusion
There are strict criteria and qualifications for manager positions under the ANZSCO. The positions are targeted at international applicants and may be for full-time employment ongoing or temporary employment depending on the different positions on offer.
It is important to know what level of education is required to obtain employment within different earning categories. Employee earnings are normally accessible. As with any visa situation however, legal advice may need to be sought to determine exactly what subclass you fall within.
Jameson Law have a team of expert immigration lawyers that can assist with any migration or visa issues you may have.
