If you’ve been struggling to find qualified mechanics in Australia, you’re not alone. Good news though  the game just changed. 

Major changes to Australia’s skilled migration system are here, and they’re designed to make recruitment faster and more streamlined.  

The new Skills in Demand visa, formerly the Temporary Skill Shortage, is a game changer for job seekers and workshops alike. 

With a clearer rules, less red tape, and greater flexibility, the updated system makes it easier than ever for employers to secure the talent they need, when they need it. 

A Smarter Structure for Strategic Hiring 

The Skills in Demand visa is divided into three tailored streams, each serving distinct workforce needs.  

1. Specialist Skills Stream

This stream is reserved for highly skilled professionals in non-trade occupations. It’s designed to attract top-tier talent whose expertise can drive innovation and long-term economic growth. 

To qualify, candidates must: 

• Be nominated by an authorised employer 

• Be employed in an occupation listed under ANZSCO major groups 1, 2, 4, 5 or 6 

• Earn at least AUD $135,000 per year (the Specialist Skills Threshold) 

• Meet health and character requirements 

• Not be employed in a trade-based occupation 

2. Core Skills Stream

The Core Skills Stream is where most trade-related occupations fall. 

To be eligible, candidates must: 

• Hold an occupation listed on the Core Skills Occupation List 

• Be paid at or above the Core Skills Threshold which is currently set at AUD $73,150 and will increase to AUD $76,515 from 1 July 2025. 

• Meet standard eligibility requirements including skill assessments, English language proficiency, and health and character checks 

This stream gives you a clear and dependable path to recruit skilled tradespeople in sectors where domestic supply continues to lag like automotive repair, healthcare, hospitality, and education. 

3. Labour Agreement Stream

This stream is available to employers who have entered into a Labour Agreement with the Australian Government.  

These agreements are custom arrangements that allow you to sponsor workers outside standard visa rules when there is evidence of ongoing labour shortages that cannot be addressed locally. 

The requirements for this stream vary depending on the terms of the specific agreement. 

Only 1 Year of Experience Needed 

The experience threshold has been slashed from two years to one. Whether it’s full-time, part-time, or casual work it all counts.  

This shift gives you, the employer, faster access to skilled talent and opens the door for emerging professionals ready to hit the ground running. 

Pathway to Permanent Residency Remains 

One of the visa’s most attractive features remains: a direct route to permanent residency. After just two years of full-time employment with their sponsor, workers can apply for permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme.  

It’s a powerful incentive that helps attract and retain high-calibre candidates. 

Extended Grace Periods  

The grace period for visa holders whose employment ends has been extended from 60 to 180 days. This expanded window gives skilled workers more breathing room to secure a new sponsor, reducing the stress of sudden job loss.  

It also offers a stronger sense of security, making it easier for international talent to take the leap, knowing there’s a safety net if things don’t go as planned. 

Final Thoughts 

Navigating the new Skills in Demand visa can still be complex but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re a workshop, dealership or job seeker, partnering with experts can make all the difference. 

Mechanics Recruitment specialises in sourcing and placing qualified international mechanics across Australia.  

With extensive knowledge of Australia’s migration system and a track record of proven results, we’re fully equipped to help you expand your talent pool. 

Call us on 08 9181 4000 to get started.  

Sources 

1. https://edupi.com.au/subclass-482-visa-policy-changes-effective-7th-december-2024/#:~:text=Changes%20to%20work%20experience%20requirements,from%20earlier%20in%20their%20careers. 

1. https://mjlegal.com.au/blog/482-visa-changes-2024-tss#:~:text=Previously%20the%20work%20experience%20requirement,this%20time%20frame%20you%20can: