Trade professionals planning to submit their Australian skills assessment through VETASSESS should take note of an important update. Due to some changes introduced by Trades Recognition Australia (TRA), there will be a temporary pause on certain applications, and two occupations will be removed from the assessment process handled by VETASSESS.
These changes will affect applicants using the Offshore Skills Assessment Program (OSAP) and the Temporary Skill Shortage Skills Assessment Program (TSS).
Two Occupations Removed from VETASSESS Assessments
One major change that comes from 30 March 2026 is that VETASSESS will stop accepting new applications for the following occupations:
- Fitter-Welder (ANZSCO 323213)
- Pastrycook (ANZSCO 351112)
Applicants working in these trades may need to look for alternative assessment arrangements depending on further guidance issued by TRA.
New Assessment Fees Coming
TRA has also confirmed that new assessment fees will apply to applications submitted from 30 March 2026 onwards.
The updated fees will be officially published on 23 March 2026 in the trade occupations fee schedule, which includes assessments conducted by VETASSESS.
So, applicants who are planning to lodge their skills assessment later this month should review the updated fee structure once it is released to ensure there is no impact on their Australia PR pathway.
Temporary Pause on Stage 1 Applications
To implement the new program updates, VETASSESS has confirmed that new Stage 1 Documentary Evidence Assessment applications will temporarily pause.
Key dates announced are:
- From 9:00 AM (AEDT) on 13 March 2026 until 9:00 AM (AEDT) on 30 March 2026
VETASSESS will not accept new Stage 1 Documentary Evidence Assessment applications. - From 9:00 AM (AEDT) on 13 March 2026 until 9:00 AM (AEDT) on 23 March 2026
The online portal will remain closed for submitting new Stage 1 applications.
However, applicants who submit and pay for their applications on or before 13 March 2026 will not be affected, and their assessments will continue to be processed normally.
So, if you want to stay ahead of these changes and secure your skills assessment, contact Growmore Immigration today for expert guidance and support.
Email: info@growmore.one | WhatsApp: +61 434 202 021 | Phone: +61 3 8764 3334
Source: Important Notice – Changes to OSAP and TSS Assessment Programs