Australia is set to broaden its skilled migration opportunities by adding ten new technology and cybersecurity occupations to its Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), according to a recent government announcement. This move, validated by the Australian Computer Society (ACS), immediately opens the door for professionals in these fields to access prominent skilled visa routes, including Subclass 189, 482, and 186 visas.

Beginning in May 2025, tech and cybersecurity experts worldwide will be eligible to apply under Australia’s upgraded skilled migration program. The CSOL, introduced in December 2024, replaced the former occupation lists, establishing a more dynamic, labor market-driven model intended to support rapidly growing industries such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and broader digital technologies.

Technology and Cybersecurity Roles Added to CSOL in 2025

Australia’s updated CSOL reflects the country’s strategic focus on building a robust technology workforce. The new additions include:

• Data Analyst (ANZSCO 224114): Specialists who interpret complex datasets to support decision-making across industries like finance, healthcare, and AI development.

• Data Scientist (ANZSCO 224115): Experts leveraging artificial intelligence and big data methodologies to solve complex challenges and forecast trends.

• Cyber Security Engineer (ANZSCO 261315): Professionals responsible for designing and maintaining secure digital infrastructures to counter cyber threats.

• DevOps Engineer (ANZSCO 261316): Engineers who optimize software delivery and deployment processes through cloud-native solutions and automation tools.

• Penetration Tester (ANZSCO 261317): Ethical hackers who identify vulnerabilities within IT systems and help organizations strengthen their cybersecurity posture.

• Cyber Security Analyst (ANZSCO 262116): Analysts dedicated to monitoring security environments, detecting breaches, and launching appropriate responses.

• Cyber Security Architect (ANZSCO 262117): Architects who design security frameworks that shield digital ecosystems from internal and external threats.

• Cyber Governance Specialist (ANZSCO 262114): Experts creating governance policies to ensure organizational compliance with cybersecurity regulations.

• Cyber Security Advisor (ANZSCO 262115): Advisors guiding organizations through risk assessments and strategic security enhancement measures.

• Cyber Security Ops Coordinator (ANZSCO 262118): Professionals managing security operations centers and orchestrating incident response efforts.

These newly recognized roles aim to address the escalating demand for skilled talent in Australia’s technology sector, ensuring the country remains competitive in the global digital economy.

Visa Pathways Now Available for New Tech Occupations

Professionals working in these fields can now explore several migration options through Australia’s skilled visa programs:

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

The Skilled Independent Visa offers a points-based pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers without the need for employer or state sponsorship. Applicants must:

• Have an occupation listed on the CSOL

• Score at least 65 points on Australia’s immigration points test

• Secure a positive skills assessment from the relevant authority

• Demonstrate competent English proficiency (minimum IELTS 6.0 or equivalent)

This visa is particularly attractive for professionals seeking the freedom to live and work anywhere across Australia without sponsorship constraints.

Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482)

The Skills in Demand Visa provides a temporary route for professionals sponsored by Australian employers. Key eligibility requirements include:

• A valid job offer from an accredited Australian employer

• At least two years of relevant work experience in the nominated field

• English proficiency with a minimum IELTS score of 5.0

• Appropriate skills and qualifications aligned with the nominated occupation

This employer-linked visa serves as an entry point for workers aiming for eventual permanent residency after two to three years of employment.

Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)

The Employer Nomination Scheme allows skilled workers to transition directly to permanent residency through employer sponsorship. To qualify, applicants must:

• Obtain a positive skills assessment for their nominated role

• Have at least three years of relevant professional experience

• Meet competent English language requirements (minimum IELTS 6.0)

• Receive a formal nomination from an approved Australian employer

The Subclass 186 visa is ideal for professionals who value immediate job security combined with a clear path to permanent settlement.

Australia’s Broader Strategy for Skilled Migration

By refreshing its occupation lists with a future-focused approach, Australia signals its strong commitment to attracting global talent to bolster industries critical to its long-term economic growth. The inclusion of these new technology and cybersecurity roles reflects an urgent need for specialized skills as Australia aims to position itself as a leader in AI development, cybersecurity resilience, and digital innovation.

Given the surging global competition for tech professionals, Australia’s expanded skilled migration opportunities offer an exciting chance for qualified candidates worldwide to build a future in a thriving, innovation-driven economy.

As May 2025 approaches, interested professionals are encouraged to start preparing their skills assessments, secure English proficiency certifications, and stay updated on the latest immigration procedures to maximize their chances of a successful application.