Trade professionals planning to apply for an Australian skills assessment through VETASSESS should be aware of an important update. Due to new changes introduced by Trades Recognition Australia (TRA), certain applications will be temporarily paused and two occupations will be removed from VETASSESS assessment programs.
These changes mainly affect applicants using the Offshore Skills Assessment Program (OSAP) and the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Skills Assessment Program.
From 30 March 2026, VETASSESS will no longer accept new skills assessment applications for the following occupations:
- Fitter-Welder (ANZSCO 323213)
- Pastrycook (ANZSCO 351112)
Professionals working in these trades may need to explore alternative assessment pathways depending on further instructions from TRA.
TRA has also confirmed that new assessment fees will apply to applications submitted from 30 March 2026 onwards.
What Do These Changes Mean for Applicants?
These updates reflect a broader trend in Australia’s migration and skill assessment system:
Increasing Restrictions
Authorities are becoming more selective about eligible occupations and pathways. The removal of occupations signals tightening controls in specific trade areas.
Limited Application Windows
The temporary closure shows that application windows can open and close without long notice, making timing crucial.
Higher Risk of Delays
Applicants who were not prepared before the cutoff faced unexpected delays or missed chances, especially for high-demand occupations.
Comments
0 comments
Please sign in to leave a comment.