Skill Assessment: From ANZSCO to OSCA Latest Update
What is OSCA (The Occupation Standard Classification for Australia)?
The Occupation Standard Classification for Australia (OSCA) is the new framework that will replace ANZSCO in Australia starting on 6 December 2024. OSCA will introduce a tailored occupational classification system specifically designed for Australia’s labour market while maintaining comparability with New Zealand's new classification, the National Occupation List (NOL).
Since its inception in 2006, ANZSCO has been jointly managed by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) and Statistics New Zealand (Stats NZ). The decision to transition to separate classifications reflects a commitment to better meet each country's unique labour market needs and stakeholder requirements.
What are the Key Changes?
Tailored Classifications: Both Australia and New Zealand will implement occupational classifications adapted to their local labour markets.
Removal of New Zealand-Specific Occupations: OSCA will not include New Zealand-specific occupations previously part of ANZSCO. This change will ensure that all classifications are relevant solely to the Australian context.
What are the Impacts of Transition?
Loss of Joint Classification: The transition means that OSCA will no longer include references to New Zealand, such as:
Occupation names
Lead statements
Alternative titles and specializations
Te Reo Māori terminology
The New Zealand Qualifications Framework
Skill Level Determination: Skill levels in OSCA will be assessed solely according to the Australian labour market, contrasting with ANZSCO, which considers Australian and New Zealand contexts.
Ongoing Availability of ANZSCO: ANZSCO will still be accessible on the ABS website, ensuring that previous versions are available for reference. Concordances will be provided to facilitate comparisons between the new OSCA classifications and ANZSCO v1.3.
What are the Implications for Labor Market Analysis?
The introduction of OSCA will impact how occupations are understood and classified within the Australian labour market. Key changes include:
New Classification Names: The classification's rebranding to OSCA signifies a fresh start and a focus on Australia's unique labour market needs.
Aggregation of New Zealand-Specific Roles: Prominent occupations in New Zealand will be aggregated based on skill level and main tasks without direct references to the New Zealand context.
Are there any Future Considerations?
The transition from ANZSCO to OSCA raises questions about other joint classifications, such as the Australian and New Zealand Standard Industrial Classification (ANZSIC). Current arrangements for other jointly owned classifications, such as the Australian and New Zealand Standard Offence Classification (ANZSOC) and the Australian and New Zealand Standard Research Classification (ANZSRC), will remain unchanged.
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How Can Agape Henry Crux Help
Feel free to reach out to Agape Henry Crux on which occupation may be the most appropriate for your next visa pathway. Our Accredited Specialist Immigration Lawyer(s) and our team of immigration lawyers and migration agents specialise in handling highly complex matters. You may schedule an appointment with one of our lawyers or agents to seek professional advice by calling 02-8310 5230 or email us at info@ahclawyers.com.
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