The Western Australian Skilled Migration Program (SMP) continues to prioritize skilled workers who can support the state’s critical workforce needs. The latest data from the General Stream – WASMOL Schedule 2 provides valuable insights into EOI ranking criteria, priority sectors, and recent invitation trends for skilled migrants.
This analysis breaks down how invitations are ranked, which occupations received invitations, and what the EOI points thresholds indicate for future applicants.
How Western Australia Ranks EOIs
Western Australia uses a multi-layered ranking system when selecting candidates from the Expression of Interest (EOI) pool.
Priority Ranking Order
- Applicants currently residing in Western Australia
- Applicants residing offshore or in another Australian state/territory
- Applicants working in WA priority sectors, including:
- Building & Construction
- Healthcare & Social Assistance
- Hospitality & Tourism
- Education & Training
- Applicants in other WA industry sectors
- Highest EOI points score
- Oldest EOI submission date
Strategic Insight
Unlike the federal invitation rounds, which heavily prioritize points score, Western Australia prioritizes:
- Location
- Industry demand
- Sector shortages
Points only become a deciding factor after sector and residency considerations. This means applicants with moderate points (65–70) can still receive invitations if their occupation aligns with WA labour shortages.
Occupations Invited Under WASMOL Schedule 2
Below is the list of occupations and their latest invitation benchmarks.
| Occupation | ANZSCO Code | Residency | Points | EOI Date |
| Airconditioning & Mechanical Services Plumber | 334112 | Overseas | 65 | 18 Jan 2026 |
| Airconditioning & Refrigeration Mechanic | 342111 | WA | 65 | 27 Feb 2026 |
| Bricklayer | 331111 | Other Australian State | 65 | 27 Feb 2026 |
| Cabinetmaker | 394111 | Overseas | 65 | 28 Jul 2024 |
| Carpenter | 331212 | Other Australian State | 65 | 02 Mar 2026 |
| Carpenter & Joiner | 331211 | Other Australian State | 65 | 24 Feb 2026 |
| Electrician (General) | 341111 | Other Australian State | 65 | 27 Feb 2026 |
| Electrician (Special Class) | 341112 | Overseas | 70 | 23 Feb 2026 |
| Fibrous Plasterer | 333211 | Overseas | 70 | 20 Feb 2026 |
| Floor Finisher | 332111 | Overseas | 70 | 02 Mar 2026 |
| Glazier | 333111 | Overseas | 70 | 29 Jan 2026 |
| Painting Trades Worker | 332211 | Other Australian State | 65 | 01 Mar 2026 |
| Plumber (General) | 334111 | WA | 65 | 26 Feb 2026 |
| Roof Tiler | 333311 | WA | 65 | 28 Jan 2026 |
| Solid Plasterer | 333212 | Overseas | 70 | 27 Feb 2026 |
| Wall & Floor Tiler | 333411 | Other Australian State | 65 | 25 Feb 2026 |
Key Migration Insights from the Data
1. Construction Trades Dominate Invitations
Nearly 100% of the invited occupations belong to construction trades, including:
- Carpenters
- Plumbers
- Electricians
- Plasterers
- Tilers
- Bricklayers
Market Interpretation
Western Australia is facing significant labour shortages in construction, driven by:
- Infrastructure expansion
- Housing demand
- Mining project developments
This makes trade occupations one of the strongest migration pathways to WA PR.
2. Minimum Points Threshold Remains Low (65–70)
Most invitations were issued at:
- 65 points
- 70 points
This confirms that state nomination remains accessible even with moderate points.
Strategic Implication
Applicants should focus on:
- Occupation alignment with WA labour demand
- Skills assessment completion
- Early EOI submission
3. Offshore Candidates Are Still Being Invited
Several occupations show Overseas residency invitations, including:
- Airconditioning & Mechanical Services Plumber
- Cabinetmaker
- Electrician (Special Class)
- Fibrous Plasterer
- Floor Finisher
- Glazier
- Solid Plasterer
Migration Insight
Western Australia continues to actively recruit international skilled workers to fill trade shortages. This is a strong signal that offshore candidates remain competitive in the state nomination program.
4. Early EOI Submission Can Matter
One occupation highlights the importance of EOI timing:
Cabinetmaker
- Points: 65
- EOI date: 28 July 2024
This indicates that older EOIs may receive invitations later if the occupation demand rises.
5. WA Residents Still Receive Priority
Several invitations were issued to applicants already living in WA, including:
- Airconditioning & Refrigeration Mechanic
- Plumber (General)
- Roof Tiler
This reinforces the state’s strategy to retain existing skilled workers already contributing to the WA economy.
What This Means for Skilled Migration Applicants
Best Opportunities Currently
Strong occupations for Western Australia nomination include:
- Carpenter
- Electrician
- Plumber
- Bricklayer
- Plasterer
- Floor Finisher
- Wall & Floor Tiler
These trades are currently high-demand migration pathways.
Minimum Competitive Profile
A strong candidate profile may include:
- Skills Assessment in a WA-demand occupation
- EOI score 65–70 points
- Relevant work experience
- English proficiency
- Early EOI submission
Strategic Migration Takeaways
For Offshore Applicants
Western Australia remains one of the most accessible state nomination pathways because:
- Offshore applicants are still invited
- The points threshold is relatively low
- Trade occupations are in high demand
For International Students and Temporary Workers in Australia
Those working in construction and building trades may have strong chances for:
- State Nomination (Subclass 190)
- Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)
Final Thoughts
The latest WASMOL Schedule 2 invitation data from the Western Australia Skilled Migration Program highlights a clear migration trend. Western Australia is prioritizing construction and trade professionals to support infrastructure growth and economic expansion.
With invitations issued at 65–70 points and several offshore candidates receiving invitations, this pathway remains one of the most viable PR options for skilled workers in 2026.
Disclaimer: All information is provided as a general guide only and does not constitute legal advice. It is important to note that immigration policies and operational practices are subject to sudden and unexpected changes.
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