What to Expect as a Telecommunications Engineer, ANZSCO 263311
Telecommunications Engineers (ANZSCO 263311) remain an essential part of Australia's skilled migration landscape, thanks to ongoing national infrastructure and digital connectivity projects. Positioned on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), this occupation provides access to the 189, 190, and 491 visa pathways. However, like most engineering and tech roles, the competition can be stiff. It is common for applicants to need a fairly robust points score to catch the attention of state or federal governments.
Subclass 189
Skilled Independent
Historical data suggests that you generally need around 80 to 85 points to be competitive for a 189 invite. It is highly sought-after, meaning the cutoff threshold often pushes higher.
→ Read our 189 guideSubclass 190
State Nominated (+5 pts)
Often a more realistic option for engineers. States like NSW, VIC, and WA frequently nominate telecommunications professionals, providing an extra 5 points to boost your total.
→ Read our 190 guideSubclass 491
Regional (+15 pts)
If you're happy to live outside the major metropolitan centres, the generous 15-point bump can be a brilliant way to bridge the gap if your base points are slightly lower.
→ Read our 491 guideComparing Your Options
| Subclass 189 | Subclass 190 | Subclass 491 |
|---|
| Nomination bonus | +0 | +5 | +15 |
| Typical target points | 80+ pts | 75+ pts | 65+ pts |
| Occupation list | MLTSSL | MLTSSL | MLTSSL |
| Level of competition | Very High | High | Medium/High |
| Assessing body | EA | EA | EA |
Keep in mind that target points are simply historical estimates. The Department of Home Affairs does not publish guaranteed cutoffs, and individual state requirements frequently evolve.
Navigating Your Engineers Australia Skills Assessment
Securing a positive skills assessment is a mandatory step before you can even submit an Expression of Interest (EOI).
Engineers Australia (EA) evaluates Telecommunications Engineers (ANZSCO 263311).
| Assessing body | Engineers Australia (EA) |
| Official website | engineersaustralia.org.au |
| Estimated wait time | Roughly 4–12 weeks for standard processing, or about 15–20 working days via Fast Track. |
| Estimated fee | AUD $335–$1,001 (depending on Accord vs CDR). Fast Track is an extra ~$350. |
| Assessment pathway | Washington/Sydney/Dublin Accord qualification, or a Competency Demonstration Report (CDR). |
| Baseline education | A relevant bachelor degree in engineering. |
The CDR Pathway
If your qualification isn't recognised under a specific Accord, you'll need to submit a Competency Demonstration Report (CDR). This report outlines your core engineering skills and professional background. Be aware that EA is increasingly rigorous when reviewing CDRs, especially regarding AI-generated content. Writing your career episodes genuinely and in the first person is critical.
⚠ Check your expiry dates: Your skills assessment must be valid on the day you are invited to apply for the visa, not just the day you lodge your EOI. EA assessments are typically valid for three years for migration purposes.
State Nomination Options for Telecommunications Engineers
Going down the state nomination route gives you an extra 5 points for a 190 visa, or 15 points for a 491. State programmes are dynamic, so it pays to stay informed.
| State | 190 Active? | 491 Active? | What to keep in mind |
|---|
| NSW | Yes | Yes | Operates on a competitive, selection-based system. High points and local employment are highly advantageous. |
| VIC | Yes | Yes | Requires you to submit a Registration of Interest (ROI) first. They evaluate candidates based on their overall profile and state needs. |
| WA | Yes | Yes | Usually included in the WASMOL (Schedule 1 or 2). Gives distinct priority to candidates currently residing in WA. |
| QLD | Yes | Yes | Frequently lists engineering roles, often requiring evidence of local employment or study. |
| SA | Yes | Yes | Generally favours applicants who have studied locally or are currently working in their nominated occupation within South Australia. |
| TAS | Check | Yes | Tends to strongly favour long-term residents and local graduates. |
| ACT | Yes | Yes | Invitations are based on the Canberra Matrix scoring system. |
| NT | Check | Yes | Focuses on applicants already living and working in the Northern Territory. |
Note: State occupation lists and eligibility criteria shift frequently. Always verify the latest details on the official migration portal for each respective state.
Since the independent 189 pathway can be incredibly competitive, state nomination is a highly practical strategy for telecommunications engineers. Just ensure you are clear on the residency and employment commitments that states demand in return for their nomination.
How to Boost Your PR Points
If your points are hovering around 65 to 75, here are some actionable ways to strengthen your application.
1. Max Out Your English Score
Securing 'Superior English' (such as IELTS 8.0 or PTE 79 across all bands) nets you 20 points-a massive 10-point leap from 'Proficient'. For many engineers, this alone makes their profile competitive.
→ Read our English points guide2. Consider State Nomination
If reaching the 80+ marks required for a 189 invite feels like a stretch, the 190 visa offers an automatic 5 points and places you in a pool focused on state-specific economic needs.
→ Check our 190 visa guide3. Claim Partner and NAATI Points
Having a partner with a relevant skills assessment and competent English can add up to 10 points. Alternatively, if you speak a language other than English, passing the NAATI CCL test grants you 5 points.
→ Explore partner points optionsWill the Proposed 2026 Reforms Affect Me?
⚠ A quick reminder: The 2026 points test reforms you might be reading about are currently just proposals. The existing Schedule 6D points system is still in full effect until any new legislation passes Parliament.
Engineering skills continue to be highly valued in Australia. However, if the proposed reforms are legislated, the baseline threshold might jump to 70 points. This could make it tougher for those sitting right on the current 65-point margin. On the flip side, the government has suggested adding points based on income, which could provide a brilliant advantage for senior telecommunications engineers earning generous salaries.
→ Learn more about the points test reform proposals