South Australia's Skilled Occupation List

South Australia is often considered by applicants who want a more realistic pathway through state nomination. Compared to larger states, the competition is different and, in some cases, more manageable. That is why the South Australia skilled occupation list attracts so much attention.

Still, many applicants misunderstand what the list really represents. It is not a checklist or a guarantee. It is simply one of the tools South Australia uses when selecting candidates under the broader Australia Immigration framework for people aiming for Australia PR.

What South Australia’s Skilled Occupation List Really Is

At its core, South Australia’s skilled occupation list reflects the roles the state is prepared to consider for nomination at a particular point in time.

If an occupation appears on the list, it means South Australia has identified a potential need for those skills. It does not mean invitations are automatic, and it does not mean the occupation will remain on the list indefinitely.

You may see the same list described in different ways:

• South Australia occupation list
• South Australia state occupation list
• South Australia skilled occupation list

These terms are used interchangeably, but they all refer to the same state-managed list.

South Australia Occupation List vs Federal Occupation Lists

This distinction is important and often overlooked.

Federal occupation lists determine whether a visa subclass can be applied for.
The South Australia occupation list determines whether the state is willing to nominate applicants for those visas.

In other words, federal lists set the rules. South Australia decides who it wants to support within those rules.

For applicants whose occupations are technically eligible but not receiving regular federal invitations, state nomination can sometimes improve visibility and strengthen the pathway toward Australia PR.

How South Australia Uses the Skilled Occupation List in Practice

South Australia does not issue invitations simply because an occupation appears on the list.

In practice, the state:

• reviews registrations of interest
• looks at current labour market needs
• compares applicants within the same occupation
• considers experience, skills, and overall profile strength

As a result, two applicants with the same occupation may have very different outcomes depending on timing, demand, and profile quality.

Who Is Usually Better Positioned Under the South Australia Skilled Occupation List

The South Australia skilled occupation list tends to work better for applicants who:

• have relevant, recent work experience
• meet skills assessment and English requirements comfortably
• are prepared to live and work in South Australia
• understand that nomination is competitive, not automatic

Applicants who treat the list as a signal rather than a promise usually plan more effectively.

How Often the South Australia State Occupation List Changes

The South Australia state occupation list is reviewed on a regular basis, but not on a fixed public schedule.

Occupations may be added when shortages increase, removed when demand stabilises, or paused if nomination places fill quickly. This is why relying on older lists or second-hand information can lead to incorrect assumptions.

Staying aligned with current state priorities is essential.

South Australia's Skilled Occupation List 

1. Farmers and Farm Managers
2. Specialist Managers
3. Hospitality, Retail & Service Managers
4. Arts & Media Professionals
5. Business, Human Resource & Marketing Professionals
6. Design, Engineering, Science & Transport Professionals
7. Education Professionals
8. Health Professionals
9. ICT Professionals
10. Legal, Social & Welfare Professionals
11. Engineering, ICT & Science Technicians
12. Automotive & Engineering Trades Workers
13. Construction Trades Workers
14. Electro technology& Telecommunications Trades Workers
15. Food Trades Workers
16. Skilled Animal & Horticultural Workers
17. Other Technicians & Trades Workers
18. Health & Welfare Support Workers
19. Protective Services Workers
20. Sports & Personal Service Workers
21. Office Managers & Program Administrators
22. Other Clerical and Administrative Workers
23. Sales Representatives & Agents
24. Sales Support Workers

Frequently Asked Questions

What is South Australia’s skilled occupation list used for?
It helps South Australia identify which occupations it may nominate for skilled migration.

Is the South Australia occupation list the same as the federal list?
No. South Australia applies its own priorities based on state workforce needs.

Does inclusion on the list guarantee nomination?
No. It only makes an applicant eligible to be considered.

Can the South Australia state occupation list change during the year?
Yes. Changes can occur based on demand and program limits.

Is South Australia a realistic pathway for Australia PR?
For many applicants, yes, particularly when federal competition is high.

Check Your Eligibility for Australia PR

The South Australia skilled occupation list is only one part of the overall migration picture. Your experience, points, occupation demand, and willingness to settle in South Australia all influence the outcome.

Before taking the next step, it helps to understand how your profile aligns with current state priorities.

👉 Check your eligibility for Australia PR and assess whether South Australia fits your migration strategy under the current Australia Immigration system.