Is Skill Assessment Required for Engineering in Australia?

When it comes to engineering jobs in Australia, is a skills assessment compulsory? The answer is no; obtaining a skills assessment from Engineers Australia (EA) is not mandatory before applying for engineering positions. However, it becomes vital if you are planning to apply for skilled migration to the country.

Skilled Migration and Competency Assessment

For engineers with foreign training wishing to move to Australia under the skilled migration program, a competency assessment is frequently necessary. This evaluation helps determine whether your training and work experience align with the requirements set by Australian professional associations. The evaluation process is typically carried out by appropriate assessing authorities, such as Engineers Australia (EA).

Engineers Australia (EA)

Engineers Australia (EA) is the professional association for engineers in Australia. EA evaluates engineers' credentials and experience to ensure they meet Australian standards. For engineers with degrees from outside Australia, EA assesses whether their training and work history align with the competencies and skills required by Australian engineers.

Acknowledgment of Qualifications

When engineers apply for skilled migration, an evaluation confirms whether their degrees, diplomas, and other credentials are comparable to those of Australian engineers. This process is crucial for gaining entry to the country through skilled migration programs such as Subclass 189, 190, and 491.

Standards for Temporary and Permanent Migration

The standards for talent assessment can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. A favorable competency assessment is crucial when applying for either a skilled migration visa or a temporary work visa. It is essential to ensure your credentials meet these standards before submitting your application.

No Evaluation for Local Graduates

If you have completed an Australian engineering degree and are already residing in Australia, you typically do not require a skill evaluation for employment purposes. However, you might still need one for immigration considerations. This flexibility acknowledges the value of locally trained engineers in the Australian job market.

Specialized Engineering Fields

The assessment procedures for different engineering specialties, such as software, mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering, may differ slightly. Regardless of the field, EA usually manages the majority of these assessments to ensure consistency and fairness in the evaluation process.

In conclusion, a skills assessment is necessary in Australia to verify your credentials and experience for the majority of engineering positions under skilled migration. This process, typically managed by Engineers Australia, is a crucial step in the migration process. Understanding these requirements will help ensure a smoother transition for international engineers wishing to work in Australia.