On December 6, 2024, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) published the first edition of the Occupation Standard Classification Australia (OSCA) after extensive consultations. Many changes championed by key creative industry organisations and advocacy bodies have been adopted, including clearer groupings, new occupations, and expanded definitions.
Two notable updates include expanded classifications for Dance Teacher (Private Tuition) and Dancer or Choreographer.
What is OSCA?
The OSCA replaces the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) as the standardised framework for classifying jobs based on required skill levels and tasks.
Developed by the ABS, the OSCA is the result of a thorough review of ANZSCO conducted from July 2022 to December 2024.
Key Updates in Occupation Classifications
Dance Teacher (Private Tuition)
This occupation is now classified as 259232 Dance Teacher (Private Tuition). The classification includes:
- A new alternative title
- Expanded definitions of core tasks performed by dance teachers in private education settings
Dancer or Choreographer
This occupation is now classified as 231134 Dancer or Choreographer. The updated classification features:
- New specialisations
- Greater clarity around the main tasks performed by dancers and choreographers
Why is the OSCA Important?
The introduction of the OSCA marks a significant step toward modernising Australia’s occupation classification system. It better reflects the current labour market and prepares for future workforce needs.
Key benefits include:
- Improved decision-making in areas such as employment, migration, education, and policy development.
- A more accurate and flexible framework for classifying occupations, benefitting employers, industries, and government bodies.
Benefits For Employers
Employers will gain access to a tailored, flexible, and up-to-date classification system. This will help them identify the skills required in their workforce with greater precision, improving recruitment and workforce planning.
For more information about OSCA and its implications, visit the ABS website.