Western Australia Skilled Migration Report (June 2025): A Guide to Top Jobs & Visa Trends

Western Australia is a key destination for skilled professionals, with high demand for workers to fill important gaps in sectors like mining, construction, healthcare, and hospitality. The information here is based on the Australian Government's Temporary Resident (Skilled) report from 30 June 2025. This data gives us a clear look at the trends for employers and applicants.

A Snapshot of WA's Skilled Migration Growth

As of 30 June 2025, Western Australia had granted 10,720 primary skilled visa applications. This is a solid 16.2% increase compared to the same time last year. This growth highlights the state's real need for skilled professionals to support its major industries.

This strong skilled migration program offers a clear path for skilled migrants and eligible international students. For anyone looking for a pathway to permanent residency, this data is very encouraging.

In-Demand Industries and Top Occupations in WA

The report shows that demand for skilled workers is high across several key WA industries:

• Health Care and Social Assistance: 1,540 grants (+23.0%)
• Accommodation and Food Services: 1,380 grants (a huge +120.3% jump)
• Mining: 1,320 grants (-13.5%)
• Construction: 1,310 grants (+25.6%)
• Other Services: 1,260 grants (+12.6%)
• Professional, Scientific and Technical Services: 1,180 grants (-0.7%)
• Manufacturing: 890 grants (+19.3%)

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If you are interested in getting more information about a visa, get in touch with Australian Migration Agents for a consultation.

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The top occupations for primary applications granted in 2024–25 show a strong need for trades and healthcare.

1. 351311 Chef: 740 grants (+228.8%)
2. 253112 Resident Medical Officer: 630 grants (+11.0%)
3. 312512 Mechanical Engineering Technician: 530 grants (-1.9%)
4. 321211 Motor Mechanic (General): 380 grants (+55.1%)
5. 321212 Diesel Motor Mechanic: 340 grants (-31.0%)
6. 323211 Fitter (General): 290 grants (-31.9%)
7. 351411 Cook: 270 grants (+83.9%)
8. 322311 Metal Fabricator: 240 grants (+11.3%)

This data shows a clear pattern in the types of skills WA is looking for. The State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP) is a key tool for filling these specific industry needs.

Wondering if your occupation is on the in-demand list? Our registered migration agents can help you check your eligibility. Chat with us today.

Understanding Australia's Skilled Occupation Lists

Whether your occupation qualifies for a skilled visa depends on Australia's combined skilled occupation list, which is actually made up of several sub-lists rather than one single list. The Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) covers occupations in high, long-term demand and generally offers access to the widest range of visas, including the Subclass 189. The Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) covers occupations needed for shorter periods and is generally used for state and territory nomination rather than the independent pathway. The Regional Occupation List (ROL) is used mainly for regional pathways such as the Subclass 491. The Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) supports employer-sponsored pathways such as the Subclass 482 and the Direct Entry stream of the Subclass 186. The same occupation can appear on more than one list, and which list applies determines which visa pathways are actually open to you.

Skilled Visa Pathways in Western Australia

For visa applicants, matching your skills and goals with the right visa stream is the key to success.

Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa

This is a permanent residency visa for skilled professionals who get a nomination from the WA government. To be eligible, your nominated job must be on the state's current list. You also need to meet all other criteria, like a valid skills assessment and competent English. Our team can help assess your eligibility for this visa and guide you through the points test and nomination form.

Does the 190 Visa Lead to Permanent Residency?

Yes, and it's worth being clear on this: the Subclass 190 is already a permanent visa. Unlike the Subclass 491, there is no separate transition step required, once granted, a 190 visa holder has permanent residency immediately. The Subclass 491 works differently: it is a five-year provisional visa, and holders need to meet residence and income requirements over time before applying separately for the permanent Subclass 191.

Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa

This is a 5-year provisional visa for skilled people who are prepared to live and work in designated regional areas of WA. It provides a clear pathway to permanent residency after you meet the regional work and residence rules. This is a great opportunity for applicants from overseas, interstate, or those looking for opportunities outside of Perth.

Employer-Sponsored Visa Pathways

It's also important to know that employer sponsorship is a major pathway. The report shows that Employer-Sponsored visas are the most common route for skilled workers moving from a temporary visa to permanent residency, with 24,680 grants in the 2024-25 period. If you have a job offer in WA, this can be a very strong option.

Key Requirements for WA State Nomination

Securing a WA state nomination involves meeting several key criteria.

The Points Test and Skills Assessment

The government's points test is a key part of your application. Your score is based on age, English skills, work history, and education. A valid skills assessment proves your skills meet Australian standards for your nominated occupation. This assessment is done by a relevant assessing authority.

Work Experience Requirements

Your skilled employment is a critical part of your nomination. For many streams, you must show at least six months of work experience in your nominated occupation (or a closely related one). This work usually needs to be at ANZSCO skill level 1, 2, or 3. For some pathways, you'll need to provide an employment contract for full-time work in WA for at least six months.

Specific Documents Required

To be successful, you must provide a range of documents, including:

• A certified copy of your skills assessment.
• Your English language test results (e.g., PTE Academic or IELTS).
• Evidence of paid employment, such as payslips and employment contracts.
• Copies of your passport, birth certificate, and other identity documents.

Your Expression of Interest (EOI) must always be up-to-date with your current information.

The application process for a state-nominated visa can be complex. Our team can help you check your documents and prepare a strong application.

Where Are WA's Skilled Migrants From?

The top citizenship countries for primary applications in WA show a diverse mix of skilled people from all over the world:

• Philippines: 2,480 grants (+17.2%)
• United Kingdom: 1,360 grants (+7.1%)
• India: 1,080 grants (+55.6%)
• Ireland, Republic of: 820 grants (+9.4%)
• South Africa: 350 grants (-36.4%)
• Malaysia: 320 grants (+17.5%)
• Italy: 300 grants (+44.6%)
• Indonesia: 240 grants (+52.6%)
• France: 240 grants (+61.6%)

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Navigating Your Skilled Migration Journey to WA

With high demand in mining, construction, health, and hospitality, WA offers great skilled migration opportunities. A successful application needs careful attention to all requirements and documents.

Australian Migration Agents offers expert help to make sure your application is prepared accurately. We can assess your eligibility for all skilled visa streams, including state nomination and employer sponsorship, and guide you on the best pathway for your situation.

Your Next Step

Planning your WA skilled migration journey is a big step. Contact Australian Migration Agents today for friendly, professional support for your Western Australian visa nomination. Whether you're in Australia or overseas, our team can provide clear advice on eligible occupations, points, and nomination processes to help you build your future in Australia.

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