In a significant development for the air conditioning and refrigeration industry in Australia, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (RAC) mechanics might be excluded from the Core Skilled Occupation List (CSOL). This change is part of the Australian federal government’s ongoing Migration Strategy, which aims to align immigration policies more closely with the nation’s evolving labor market needs.

Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) is spearheading this initiative, conducting an extensive analysis of the country's labor market to assess current and future skills requirements. The findings will guide the government in shaping the new Skills in Demand Visa, set to replace the Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS) Visa by late 2024. This new visa will feature a three-tiered system, addressing Specialist Skills, Core Skills, and Essential Skills pathways.

The draft CSOL, released for consultation on March 20, 2024, is part of a comprehensive stakeholder engagement process that includes surveys, submissions, and bilateral meetings. This consultation period will close on May 10, 2024. JSA's recommendations will be based on a variety of factors, including labor market data, the success of migrants in the workforce, and the reliance on sponsored skilled visa holders​ (VisaEnvoy)​.

Currently, the draft list is not final and is open to feedback from industry stakeholders, who are encouraged to participate in the consultation process. The final advice from JSA to the government will be delivered later this year, after which the Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, and Multicultural Affairs will release the final CSOL​.

This potential change could have far-reaching implications for the HVACR sector, impacting both local employment and the availability of skilled migrant workers in Australia. Industry professionals and stakeholders are advised to stay informed and participate in the consultation to ensure their perspectives are considered in the final decision.