New points test under the General Skilled Migration Scheme 

A new points test under the General Skilled Migration Scheme (GSM), as announced on 8 February 2010, may be introduced on 01 July 2011. 

The new points test will be focused on selecting highly skilled people.

Changes may include the award of extra points for e.g.:

- better English language levels
- more extensive work experience
- high level qualifications

The new points test will only apply to the following visas:
- Skilled-Independent, subclasses 175 and 885
- Skilled-Sponsored, subclasses 176 and 886
- Skilled (-) Regional Sponsored, subclasses 487 and 475

The new Pass Mark is expected to be set at 65 points.