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Understanding Occupation Skill Level Scores in Victoria's Points Test
Victoria's Live in Melbourne state nomination program uses its own selection system, known as the Victorian Points Test (VPT).
One of the key scoring factors is the ANZSCO skill level of your nominated occupation. Depending on your occupation's classification, this factor can contribute up to 50 points towards your Victorian nomination score.
What the Skill Level Score Means
Under Victoria's current points test, occupation skill levels are scored as follows:
- ANZSCO Skill Level 1: 50 points
- ANZSCO Skill Level 2: 0 points
- ANZSCO Skill Level 3: 0 points
The 50-point difference can be significant in a competitive selection process.
However, receiving zero points for occupation skill level does not automatically make you ineligible for Victorian nomination. Other factors, including age, English proficiency, employment, qualifications and partner skills, also contribute to your overall VPT score.
Victoria's Points Test Is Not the Same as SkillSelect
This is an important distinction for applicants to understand.
The Victorian Points Test is separate from the Australian Government's SkillSelect Expression of Interest (EOI) points test.
Your SkillSelect EOI score is used for federal skilled visa pathways, including Subclass 189 and state-nominated Subclass 190 and 491 applications. Applicants generally need at least 65 points under the federal points test to meet the minimum points requirement.
Victoria calculates its own nomination selection score using the VPT. The two scoring systems serve different purposes and should not be confused.
Importantly, the 50 points for ANZSCO Skill Level 1 are Victorian nomination selection points, not additional points added to your federal SkillSelect EOI.
How Your Score Is Calculated
Your Victorian Points Test score is calculated using information provided in your Registration of Interest (ROI) and SkillSelect EOI.
The assessment considers several factors, including:
- Age
- English language proficiency
- Victorian skilled employment and earnings
- Work experience
- Educational qualifications
- Occupation skill level
- Partner skills
The accuracy of your information in both systems is essential. Incorrect or inconsistent details may affect your VPT score and potentially disadvantage your ROI during selection.
Be aware that a submitted ROI cannot be directly edited. If information in your ROI needs to be corrected or updated, you generally need to withdraw it and submit a new ROI. Changes to your SkillSelect EOI should be made separately through SkillSelect.
How to Confirm Your Nominated Occupation's Skill Level
ANZSCO assigns skill levels to occupations based on their classification and typical requirements.
To check your nominated occupation's skill level:
- Identify the correct ANZSCO occupation code for your nominated occupation.
- Refer to the relevant ANZSCO classification published by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).
- Check the skill level assigned to your occupation.
- Confirm that the occupation code is consistent across your skills assessment, Victorian ROI and SkillSelect EOI.
Importantly, your occupation's ANZSCO skill level is determined by the occupation classification, not simply by your personal education or years of work experience.
Having a bachelor's or master's degree does not automatically make your nominated occupation Skill Level 1. Similarly, having five years of work experience does not change the official skill level assigned to an occupation.
Key Takeaways
- Skill Level 1: Attracts 50 points under Victoria's current VPT.
- Skill Levels 2 and 3: Attract 0 points for the occupation skill level factor, but applicants may still score through other categories.
- Separate scoring systems: Victoria's VPT is different from the federal SkillSelect EOI points test.
- Accurate information matters: Your ROI and EOI details must be consistent and accurate.
- No guaranteed invitation: A higher VPT score may improve your competitiveness, but Victoria does not have a fixed qualifying score that guarantees nomination.
If you are considering a Victorian Subclass 190 or 491 nomination, it is worth checking your ANZSCO occupation classification and overall VPT score before submitting your ROI.
Riverwood Migration can help review your occupation, skills assessment, EOI and Victorian nomination eligibility, so you can better understand your available options before applying.
The content of this article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration law is complex and subject to change. The information provided may not reflect the most current legal developments. For advice specific to your circumstances, please consult a registered Australian migration lawyer. For full terms governing use of this website and its content, please refer to our Website Terms and Conditions.
Speak with a Riverwood Migration Lawyer
For skilled migration and skills assessment matters, we recommend speaking with Scott Gan, our lawyer specialising in points-tested visas and occupation skills assessments. Book a consultation to discuss your circumstances.
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