If you're a childcare worker, cook, or tradesperson looking to apply for a 482 visa or 186 visa in Australia, you may be facing a significant challenge: the minimum salary threshold (formally known as the Core Skills Income Threshold/CSIT or previously the TSMIT).
The current salary requirement for these employer-sponsored visas is proving to be a major barrier for many skilled workers and their employers.
In this blog, we’ll explore how the CSIT is too high for many industries, what alternatives are available, and how programs like the Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) could offer some relief.
Why is the 482 Visa Salary Threshold a Problem?
We recently received a comment from Bianca, in a video on our YouTube channel, that highlights the growing concern that:
“The salary threshold is way above the Childcare Work and Legal Award. No centre can pay that.”
While childcare workers now have good opportunities to apply for an employer-sponsored 482 visa or seek permanent residency (PR) through the 186 visa, they face one major obstacle: the minimum salary requirement of $73,150 per year (which will increase to $76,515 per year from 1July 2025).
How Child Care Industry Wages Compare to the 482 Visa Salary Requirement
Under the Children’s Services Award, the minimum salary for a Level 3.1 employees with an AQF Certificate III in Children's Services or equivalent qualifications is approximately $53,679.
This falls significantly short of the minimum salary requirement for the 482 visa, which makes it hard for most childcare centres to offer sponsorship to an employee. While some childcare providers pay above-award wages and might be able to meet this requirement, for most businesses, it remains an unrealistic expectation.
Other Occupations Facing Similar Challenges
The CSIT affects not only childcare workers but also other skilled trades, including cooks, motor mechanics, and entry-level tradespeople.
Many employers in these sectors struggle to meet the $73,150 salary threshold, even though the roles are essential for filling skill shortages across Australia.
DAMA: A Viable Solution for Lower Salary Occupations
For those working in regional areas, the Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) offers a more flexible visa pathway.
Under the DAMA program, employers may receive salary concessions for sponsoring skilled workers under some occupations, including childcare workers.
Benefits of DAMA for Childcare Workers and Tradespeople:
- Allows a lower salary threshold than the standard TSMIT or CSIT (usually up to 10% concession)
- Offers age concessions (up to 55 years old)
- Provides flexibility for English language requirements
- Can lead to permanent residency after meeting eligibility criteria
However, applicants must still meet other requirements, including a valid skills assessment, relevant work experience, and an Australian employer willing to sponsor their visa.
How to Find an Employer Sponsor for the 482 Visa
Finding a sponsor can be one of the biggest challenges when applying for the 482 visa.
We have a blog guide with practical tips to help you secure a sponsorship, covering strategies such as networking within your industry, tailoring your resume for Australian employers, and focusing on opportunities in regional areas that qualify for DAMA agreements.
The Future of Employer-Sponsored Visas for Childcare Workers and Trades
With the rising demand for childcare workers and skilled tradespeople in Australia, particularly in regional areas, there’s hope that future policy changes will address the disconnect between salary thresholds and industry wages.
Stay Informed and Find Your Best Visa Pathway
At Work Visa Lawyers, we understand how difficult it can be to meet the current 482 visa salary requirements.
Our team is dedicated to helping skilled workers like you explore all available visa options and navigate complex immigration policies.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced immigration lawyers.
