Just A Click Away.
Skills Assessment for Australian Migration
The Critical First Step in Your Visa Journey
A positive skills assessment is the foundation of most Australian skilled visa applications. Without it, your visa application won't even be considered by the Department of Home Affairs.
At Riverwood Migration, we specialise in navigating the complex requirements of all major Australian assessing authorities – helping professionals, tradespeople, and graduates prove their skills meet Australian standards.
What Exactly Is a Skills Assessment?
A skills assessment is an official evaluation conducted by an Australian authority that determines whether your qualifications and work experience meet Australian industry standards for your nominated occupation.
You'll need a positive assessment for:
- General Skilled Migration visas (Subclasses 189, 190, 491)
- Employer-sponsored visas (Subclasses 482, 186, 494)
- Some Graduate visas (Subclass 485 – occupation-dependent)
- Regional and DAMA visas
Without this critical document, your visa application can't proceed – regardless of your points score or employer support.
Which Authority Assesses Your Occupation?
Each occupation is assessed by a specific authority based on the ANZSCO occupation code. Common authorities include:
Professional FieldAssessing AuthorityIT & ComputingAustralian Computer Society (ACS)EngineeringEngineers AustraliaTradesTrades Recognition Australia (TRA)AccountingCPA Australia, CAANZ, IPAHealthcareAHPRA, ANMACGeneral ProfessionsVETASSESSEducationAITSL
Not sure which authority applies to you? Contact us for immediate clarification.
Skills Assessment Pathways
Different authorities offer different assessment pathways. We'll help you identify and prepare for the most suitable option:
Qualification-Based Assessments
- Australian qualifications
- Overseas qualifications (with varying recognition levels)
- Qualification verification requirements
Experience-Based Assessments
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
- Professional Year programs
- Job Ready Program (for trades)
- Employment verification requirements
Combined Assessment Models
- Qualification plus experience requirements (common with VETASSESS)
- Compensatory models for partial qualification matches
Common Issues & Pitfalls
Even minor errors in your skills assessment application can lead to rejection, costing you thousands of dollars and months of eligibility. Common issues include:
- Selecting the incorrect ANZSCO code for your qualifications and experience
- Insufficient documentation of employment history
- Gaps in employment documentation or explanation
- Misunderstanding specific requirements of different assessing authorities
- Inadequate explanation of duties and responsibilities
- Poor-quality reference letters that don't address assessment criteria
Many applicants receive bad advice from education agents or non-specialist migration providers, resulting in failed assessments that jeopardize their entire migration plan.
How Riverwood Migration Adds Value
Our team specialises in skills assessment strategy and documentation across all major authorities:
- Strategic occupation selection based on your qualifications, experience, and migration goals
- Documentation review and preparation to ensure compliance with authority requirements
- Reference letter development guidance
- Authority communication management
- Genuine position assessment preparation
- Assessment outcome review and appeals assistance
We've helped hundreds of clients secure positive assessments, even after previous rejections or complicated work histories.
Our Skills Assessment Process
- Initial consultation to understand your qualifications, experience, and goals
- Strategic planning to identify optimal assessment pathways
- Documentation preparation guidance
- Application lodgement and tracking
- Outcome management and next steps planning
Get Started With Your Skills Assessment
A successful migration journey begins with proper planning and expert guidance. Don't risk rejection by attempting a skills assessment without professional support.
Book a consultation with our skilled migration specialists to discuss your assessment options, or send us your CV for a preliminary analysis.
Contact Riverwood Migration today to start your skills assessment correctly.
[Call to action button: Book Skills Assessment Strategy Session]