Classification of Occupations

From 1 July 2010, the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) will be using the ANZSCO (rather than the ASCO) dictionary as the reference when assessing whether a visa applicant has a particular occupation for migration purposes. ANZSCO is available on the ABS website and comprehensively sets out the qualifications and experience required for almost all occupations. For instance “Sex worker or escort” is occupation 451813 and requires AQF Certificate I, or compulsory secondary education (ANZSCO Skill Level 5) as a minimum education level. It also notes that “a short period of on-the-job training may be required in addition to or instead of the formal qualification”. There are also two recognised specialisations in 451813 being dominatrix and telephone sex worker. Sex worker is not on the list of occupations which would qualify anyone for a visa.

However, if you fall into one of the following categories of occupation then you may be eligible for a 457 (temporary working visa):

139999 Specialist Managers (not elsewhere classified) EXCEPT: Ambassador, Archbishop and Bishop;

149999 Hospitality, Retail and Service Managers (not elsewhere classified) EXCEPT: Abattoir Manager, Brothel Keeper, Equipment Hire Manager, Laundrette Owner, Taxi Proprietor and Weight Loss Centre Manager; and

361199 Animal Attendants and Trainers (not elsewhere classified) EXCEPT: Crutching Contractor, Muleser and Kennel Hand.

I’m sure the RSPCA are relieved about the latter!

Creative commons attribution for the photograph.