Setting the Standard
Setting the Standard
December 2024
Australia has officially launched a new Occupation Standard Classification for Australia (OSCA), replacing the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) for Australian usage. This change, effective from 6th December, marks a significant advancement in the classification and recognition of professions within the HVACR industry.
The new classification system, which has been developed with input from various industry stakeholders including the Australian Refrigeration Council, is designed to better reflect the current skills and technologies used in the field. This collaborative effort underscores the industry's commitment to aligning occupational standards with the evolving demands of the workplace.
One of the notable changes is the update of the previous ANZSCO classification 342111 for Airconditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics. Under OSCA, this has been reclassified to 382131 Airconditioning and Refrigeration Technician. The change from "Mechanic" to "Technician" acknowledges the higher level of skills and technological expertise required in today’s industry.
Additionally, the former ANZSCO classification 334112 for Airconditioning and Mechanical Services Plumbers has been updated to 363933 Mechanical Services Plumber. This revision aims to clarify the scope of work for these roles by focusing on mechanical services and removing references to air conditioning and refrigeration, which often caused confusion regarding the overlap of responsibilities.
These updates are expected to enhance job clarity and professional recognition across the HVACR sector, contributing to better career pathways and improved service standards across Australia. The Australian Bureau of Statistics and involved industry bodies believe that these changes will provide a more accurate representation of the workforce, aiding in better policy making, education, and training programs tailored to the specific needs of the industry.
This reclassification is part of a broader move to modernize and standardize occupational definitions across various sectors in Australia, ensuring they keep pace with global standards and technological advancements.