Starting September 1, 2024, Engineers Australia will implement significant changes to the Migration Skills Assessment (MSA) program for engineering associates, including draftspersons and technicians. These changes are crucial for individuals planning to use their Australian qualifications to apply for skilled migration visas.
New Pathway for Accredited Australian Qualifications
Under the new guidelines, if you hold an Australian qualification accredited by Engineers Australia and you commenced your program during or after the year of accreditation, you can now apply for skills assessment through the Australian Qualification Pathway. This pathway is specifically designed for those whose qualifications meet the standards set by Engineers Australia, streamlining the process for candidates with accredited education.
This change offers a more straightforward and efficient route for individuals who meet these criteria, reducing the need for additional demonstration of skills beyond their academic achievements. It ensures that graduates from accredited programs are recognized promptly for their qualifications, aligning with the high standards expected in the engineering profession.
Competency Demonstration Report (CDR) Pathway for Non-Accredited Qualifications
For those with non-accredited Australian Advanced Diplomas and Associate Degrees, Engineers Australia has introduced a crucial update. Individuals holding these qualifications must now apply through the Competency Demonstration Report (CDR) pathway. This requirement extends to those with provisionally-accredited qualifications as well.
The CDR pathway is more comprehensive, requiring applicants to provide detailed reports that demonstrate their competency in their engineering discipline. This includes evidence of their engineering knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and the practical application of their skills in professional settings. The CDR process is rigorous, ensuring that only candidates who can substantiate their qualifications and experience are deemed suitable for skilled migration.
Implications for Engineering Associates
These changes underscore the importance of understanding the accreditation status of your qualification when planning your migration pathway. For engineering associates, draftspersons, and technicians, it is essential to verify whether your program is accredited by Engineers Australia. If your program is not accredited or only provisionally accredited, you should prepare for the more detailed CDR assessment process.
The updates reflect Engineers Australia’s commitment to maintaining high standards within the engineering profession, ensuring that only those with the appropriate skills and qualifications are eligible for skilled migration. For candidates, this means a clearer pathway if their qualifications meet the necessary criteria, and a more rigorous assessment if they do not.
What You Should Do Next
If you are an engineering associate or planning to apply for skilled migration through Engineers Australia, it’s crucial to take the following steps:
- Check Accreditation Status: Verify whether your qualification is fully accredited by Engineers Australia. This will determine whether you can apply via the Australian Qualification Pathway or need to go through the CDR pathway.
- Prepare for CDR if Necessary: If your qualification is not accredited, start preparing your Competency Demonstration Report. Ensure you have comprehensive evidence of your engineering experience and capabilities.
- Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with any further changes or updates from Engineers Australia, as these can impact your migration application process.
These updates from Engineers Australia represent a significant shift in how skills assessments will be conducted for engineering associates. Talk to our migration experts by booking a consultation today. By understanding and preparing for these changes, you can ensure a smoother application process for your skilled migration visa through the help of Pathway to Aus
For more details, visit the official Engineers Australia website.
