2025 Occupation Shortage List Update: Boosting Your PR Dreams as an International Student in Australia

Welcome aboard, international students! Are you planning for permanent residency (PR) after your studies? If so, Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) is your go-to stop in the migration journey. Recently, JSA updated its Occupation Shortage List (OSL) for 2025, highlighting the occupations and regions in Australia currently facing skill shortages. In this post, we’ll explain what the OSL is, how it can shape your PR pathway, and share practical tips to help you plan smarter!

What Is the Occupation Shortage List For? 

Think of the Occupation Shortage List (OSL) as Australia’s job board for skilled migrants. Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) updates the list based on job ads, employer surveys, and labour market data. The 2025 update shows the national skills shortage rate dropping to 29% (down from 36% in 2023), but gaps remain in key areas like health, education, and trades.

So, why does it matter? For international students, the OSL provides a clearer view of “in-demand” jobs that could fast-track your visa points or state nomination. But that does not necessarily mean the competition is lower for those high-demand roles.

Occupation Highlights and How They Impact Your PR Journey

For international students aiming for PR, the three key visas to know are the Skilled Independent (189), Skilled Nominated (190), and Skilled Work Regional (491). Governments use OSL to decide how many PR nomination “seats” to allocate for each occupation in every invitation round, often adjusting allocations based on regional demand. This means that if your occupation appears on the OSL, it can increase your chances of receiving an invitation to apply, since these roles are in high demand. For more information on how PR seats are allocated, check out Australia PR 2025-26 Key Changes and Updates for International Students.

Since 2021, 139 occupations have remained in shortage. The 2025 OSL also adds 29 new occupations, mainly in STEM fields such as health, science, and technology. Here’s what stands out for students:

· Education: Teachers remain in nationwide shortage, especially in Early Childhood Education. Students studying education have strong PR opportunities, and regional placements can further improve their chances.

· Construction and Trade: Builders, electricians, plumbers, and carpenters are in demand across all states. Government infrastructure projects give trades graduates priority in skilled visas.

· Chef: Chefs are currently in shortage in regional areas. Metro shortages have eased due to more training, but regional work can offer PR advantages, such as the 491 visa pathway.

Bottom line: Pick a shortage-aligned degree (e.g., teaching), gain experience, and target states with matching needs—your PR timeline could shrink from years to months!

Quick Tips to Leverage the OSL for Your Future 

· Study Smart: Choose CRICOS courses in shortage fields—VET for trades, HE for education.

· Gain Experience: Internships, part-time work, or volunteer roles in OSL jobs count toward points, strengthening your PR pathway.

· Go Regional: Many shortages are region-specific; regional study or work can speed up PR or state nomination.

· Stay Updated: OSL list change—check JSA quarterly to stay ahead.

With PR spots capped at 185,000 for 2025-26, OSL alignment is your edge!

Wrapping Up: Your PR Path Starts Here 

The 2025 OSL update is your roadmap—highlighting education, construction/trades as top priorities, and shifting Chefs to regional demand. It helps guide your studies, work experience, and state nominations via JSA data. Align your plans early to fast-track your PR journey and your dream life in Australia!

Next steps: Download the full OSL and consult a MARA-registered agent for tailored advice. What’s your target occupation? Share below!

This information is accurate as of October 24, 2025. For visa-related matters, including applications or study conditions, always consult a Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA)-registered agent. Find one at mara.gov.au.