Author: Ivan Dojchinovski – Migration Strategist
Australia’s occupation framework is under review, and employers are being invited to contribute directly to how roles are defined across migration and workforce systems. These definitions influence how positions are recognised under visa programs and how skills are assessed across the labour market.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics has opened a public consultation for the Occupation Standard Classification for Australia (OSCA) update. This consultation will inform the OSCA 2027 release and includes changes that were identified but not incorporated into the previous update.
OSCA consultation now open for employer input
The consultation is open from until Friday 24 April 2026, closing at 11:59pm. Employers can submit feedback through the official survey during this period, with outcomes contributing to updates scheduled for release in March 2027.
This process forms part of the ongoing maintenance strategy to ensure the classification framework reflects current industry practices, emerging roles and evolving skill requirements.
What is OSCA and why it matters
The Occupation Standard Classification for Australia is the national framework used to define and categorise roles across the labour market. It supports workforce data, education pathways and migration program settings.
Changes to this framework can influence how roles are assessed in skilled migration programs, including how duties, skill levels and occupation groupings are interpreted. Accurate input from employers helps ensure that classifications reflect real business needs.
Focus areas for the OSCA 2027 update
The 2027 update will focus on the six digit occupation level. Feedback is being sought to improve how roles are structured, described and differentiated.
Employers are invited to provide input on:
- Roles that are currently included but are not accurately described
- Roles that should be separately identified with a unique classification code
- Emerging occupations that are not yet represented
The update may also consider adjustments to titles, tasks, skill levels and licensing requirements to align with current industry practice.
How to participate in the survey
Participation is completed through the Australian Bureau of Statistics Consultation Hub. Access the survey here: https://consult.abs.gov.au/osca/osca-2027-update/. A feedback guide is available within the platform to support preparation and submission, with structured questions designed to capture detailed insights.
Once submitted, a receipt will be issued to the nominated email address. Additional supporting documents can be provided separately using the receipt number, noting a file size limit of 5MB. The Australian Bureau of Statistics has also confirmed that AI tools will be used to assist with summarising and processing submissions.
Why employer input is essential
Direct input from employers ensures that occupation definitions remain aligned with actual business operations. Without this input, there is a risk that classifications may not reflect how roles function in practice, particularly in sectors experiencing rapid change.
Accurate classification supports more effective workforce planning and ensures that migration pathways remain relevant to industry demand.
Practical considerations for businesses
Employers should review their workforce structure and identify any roles that may not align with current definitions. This includes positions that have evolved, hybrid roles and functions that are not clearly recognised.
Providing detailed feedback will support more precise classification outcomes and help ensure that future updates reflect operational realities.
Professional support for workforce and migration alignment
Occupation classification plays a key role in how roles are assessed under migration programs. Changes to definitions can affect eligibility, role alignment and long term workforce planning.
Absolute Immigration supports employers by assessing how roles align with visa requirements and identifying risks where classifications may not accurately reflect business operations. This approach helps organisations prepare for future changes and maintain compliance.
For guidance on workforce planning and migration alignment, contact aisupport@absoluteimmigration.com.
