Software Engineer (ANZSCO 261313): code, lists, and assessment at a glance

Software Engineer, ANZSCO 261313

Software Engineer is ANZSCO code 261313, skill level 1. The ABS describes the role as: designing, developing, modifying, documenting, testing, implementing, installing, and supporting software applications and systems. Skill level 1 means the work is typically at degree level or higher.

Find the full occupation detail at Software Engineer (261313).

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Who assesses it

To use this code for a skills assessment in Australia, you need the assessing authority that covers 261313. That authority is not confirmed in this record. The Software Engineer (261313) occupation page carries the current authority name and a direct link to apply. Check that page before you start an assessment application, as authorities and their scope can change.

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Which lists it sits on

Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) and Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). Both are maintained by the Australian Department of Home Affairs. The current skill occupation list shows which visa subclasses each list supports. List membership is reviewed and can change, so check the live page.

2025 Occupation Shortage List. The Jobs and Skills Australia 2025 Occupation Shortage List was released in October 2025. The current shortage rating for 261313 is on the occupation page. One key distinction: being on the CSOL or MLTSSL opens a skilled migration pathway. The shortage rating is a separate, point-in-time labour market read. The two are related but not the same.

NZ Green List, Tier 1 (Straight to Residence). Software Engineer is on New Zealand’s Green List at Tier 1. Tier 1 is the Straight to Residence tier. The list was last updated effective 26 March 2025. Always check the live list before relying on it.

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Near-miss codes to check

Two codes are easy to confuse with Software Engineer:

• Developer Programmer (261312): writes and maintains code to a specification. The focus is on building and programming, not the broader design and architecture work that defines a Software Engineer role.
• ICT Business Analyst (261111): works at the intersection of technology and business requirements. The focus is on analysing needs and specifying solutions, rather than designing and building the software itself.

If your job sits across these boundaries, the right code is the one that best matches where most of your time goes. The exact 6-digit code matters more than the job title on your contract.

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Find your code

Browse all ANZSCO 2022 occupations at /en/anzsco/2022/. If you are unsure which code fits your background, the CV matcher at app.anzscofinder.com matches your CV to the closest codes and shows its working.

For advice on which visa to apply for, speak to a registered migration agent. We find codes and show sources. We do not give migration advice.