anzsco.com.au
ANZSCO 272111Skill level 1Version 5Updated 2026-04-26

Careers Counsellor

A Counsellor provides therapeutic counselling and psychological support to individuals and groups experiencing personal, social, or emotional difficulties in Australian community, health, and private practice settings.

Indicative salary range
$65,000 - $110,000 (2025 indicative)

Full-time AUD, 2025 indicative. Wide bands reflect variation by employer, experience, and location.

Labour market demand

High demand; mental health awareness and Medicare funding for counselling services are increasing demand.

Occupation list membership

Which Department of Home Affairs skilled lists this occupation currently appears on.

  • STSOLShort-Term Skilled Occupation List

    Occupations eligible for shorter-term sponsored visas including Subclass 482 (short-term stream).

Assessing authority

The body that assesses skills for migration purposes for this occupation.

Visa pathways

Australian visa subclasses for which this occupation is currently eligible.

State nominations

States and territories that currently nominate this occupation for skilled migration.

CodeState / TerritoryDetails
WAWestern AustraliaView nomination →
SASouth AustraliaView nomination →
ACTAustralian Capital TerritoryView nomination →

Key duties

  • Conduct intake assessments and develop therapeutic plans with clients
  • Provide individual and group counselling using evidence-based approaches
  • Maintain confidential client records and progress notes
  • Refer clients to other services and coordinate care as required

Skills required

  • Counselling theory and therapeutic modalities (CBT, person-centred, ACT)
  • Clinical assessment and case formulation
  • Therapeutic relationship and active listening skills
  • Ethical practice and professional supervision

Typical qualifications pathway

Bachelor's or Master's degree in counselling or related field; membership with ACA or PACFA. VETASSESS assesses qualifications.

Visa & occupation list information

Listed on MLTSSL and CSOL, enabling subclasses 186, 189, 190, 482, 485, 491, and 494 For advice on which pathway suits your circumstances, consult a registered MARA migration agent.

anzsco.com.au is information-only. For personalised advice on your situation, always consult a registered MARA migration agent.

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Occupation record last reviewed by editorial team: