Only full time (at least 20 hours per week) and paid employment can be considered for skills assessment purposes. The major tasks undertaken in your everyday work should closely match major tasks usually undertaken in that occupation in Australia. The employment to be assessed must also be performed at the required skill level of the nominated occupation.
Employment must be skilled
For employment to be considered 'skilled', it must meet two requirements:
- that it was undertaken after you met the entry level requirements for the nominated occupation
- that it involved your primary/ main duties being performed at the level of depth and complexity for the nominated occupation
Each ANZSCO Unit Group of occupations lists a range of tasks based on the nature of each occupation as well as the differing skill levels required. Occupation tasks may vary in terms of the scope of responsibilities, knowledge and skills required. Usually the salary will reflect the level of skill required.
Example:
The ANZSCO tasks listed for a Customer Service Manager (ANZSCO Code 149212, VETASSESS Group C Occupation classification) include supervision of staff providing customer services, developing and reviewing policies and procedures concerning customer relations, and liaising with other organisational units to enhance customer service standards.
In comparison, a Construction Project Manager (ANZSCO Code 133111, VETASSESS Group A Occupation classification) requires specialised knowledge of the construction industry and major tasks may include: interpreting architectural drawings, specifications, bills of quantities and plans; estimating costs and quantities of labour and materials; creating and implementing coordinated programs for site activities and work control systems, and ensuring adherence to building legislation and standards of building performance.
Employment must be paid
For skills assessment purposes, full time work is paid employment performed for a minimum of 20 hours per week. Irregular periods that average out to 20 hours per week over a year will not be considered. For example, if you have worked in your nominated occupation for 12 hours per week over a three-month period and then worked 40 hours per week over a seven-month period, only the seven-month period would be considered for skills assessment purposes.
Please note that unpaid / partially paid leave, volunteer services or work towards gaining professional skills and/ or qualifications will not be considered as paid employment at the required skill level of a nominated occupation for skills assessment purposes.
Leave periods
Only periods of leave on full pay may be counted as paid employment for assessment purposes.