The bizarre list of ‘vital’ workers the government says we need to import – but one key group doesn’t make the cut

The Australian government has named yoga instructors, flower growers and beauticians as essential workers the country must import, but left out certain key construction workers.

A revamped Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), published on Tuesday, outlines the key sectors where the government believes temporary migration of skilled workers is needed to keep the economy afloat.

The list of 456 professions, including jewelry designers, winemakers, dieticians and framers, contains some notable omissions.

While many new jobs are being created in the construction sector, such as plumbers, bricklayers and carpenters, one construction industry body has criticized the lack of other key roles.

This includes many machine-operated jobs, such as drills, bulldozers, excavators and hoisting operators.

“We remain dismayed that amid a housing crisis and chronic labor shortages, key roles in the sector have been left off the list,” said Denita Wawn, CEO of Master Builders Australia.

“You can’t build a house, schools, hospitals or roads without crane, bulldozer and excavator operators, who didn’t make it.

‘The evidence speaks for itself: all professions in the building and construction sector are still in short supply and should be on the list.

The list of 456 professions, including jewelery designers, winemakers (pictured), dieticians and framers, contains some notable omissions

“The federal government has missed an opportunity to signal to the industry and the community that they are truly committed to solving the housing crisis and addressing the labor shortage.

“Labor shortages are one of the biggest causes of cost increases and delays.”

There’s more to come.