If you’re looking to migrate to Australia as a skilled worker under subclass 190 or 491 visas, one of the key requirements is writing a Commitment Statement or Letter of Commitment. This statement is not difficult, but it requires thoughtful research and clarity on how you will commit to living in the selected state or territory if your visa is granted.

Here’s what you need to know about crafting this essential document and what each state expects.

What Is a Commitment Statement?

A Commitment Statement is a written declaration that demonstrates your intent to live and work in the Australian state or territory that nominates you for the visa. It doesn’t require a PhD to write, but you do need to clearly outline your future plans and demonstrate that you’ve done your homework.

The statement varies depending on whether you’re applying from within Australia (onshore) or outside the country (offshore). If you’re already living in Australia, you’ll need to tailor the statement to reflect your experience of the state and why you wish to stay. For offshore applicants, the focus will be on why you want to relocate and how you plan to settle down there.

Examples of Commitment Statement Requirements by State

Each Australian state has its own guidelines, though the core message remains the same: You need to show your long-term commitment to the state. Below are a couple of examples.

Northern Territory (NT)
For applicants in NT, a Letter of Commitment is required. This should include:
– Your commitment to live and work in your skilled occupation (or a related field) in the NT for at least three years after visa approval.
– Why you want to live in the Northern Territory.
– How the NT lifestyle suits you more than any other city in Australia.
– Keep the statement no longer than two pages.

Queensland (QLD)
In Queensland, the Commitment Statement must be more detailed:
– Introduction: Why do you want to live and work in Queensland?
– Employment: Provide details of job opportunities in your nominated occupation.
– Location: What suburb and postcode have you researched as your future home, and why?
– Lifestyle: Outline your personal lifestyle plans in Queensland.
– Community: Are there any local support services or community groups you want to join?
– Cost of living: Provide specific costs for rent, utilities, groceries, and more in the suburb you’ve chosen.
– Future plans: What do you intend to do after gaining permanent residency (PR)?

What Are They Really Looking For?

When writing a Commitment Statement, it’s essential to understand the deeper reasons behind these questions. Here’s what Australian states want to see:

1. Job Opportunities: They want to know that you’ve researched the job market and are confident you can find employment. If you’ve researched and found that your skills are in demand in the state, your application will be much stronger.

2. Long-Term Commitment: Australian states want reassurance that you will stay in the state after receiving your visa. If you’re a high-level executive or from a fast-paced city and plan to settle in a quieter state like the Northern Territory, this may raise red flags for the case officer.

3. Suitability for the State’s Lifestyle: Weather, lifestyle, and local culture matter. If you’re coming from a cold climate and plan to move to a tropical area like Darwin, they want to be sure you can adapt.

4. Economic Sustainability: Can you pay your bills and thrive in the state? If your job is scarce in the area, it might be seen as a risk that you’ll struggle financially or relocate.

Tailoring the Statement to Different States

It’s important to note that while the general principles of a Commitment Statement are similar across states, each has its own name for the document and specific focus areas. Here are some examples of the variations:

– Northern Territory (NT): “Letter of Commitment”
– Queensland (QLD): “Commitment Statement”
– New South Wales (NSW): “Letter of Commitment”
– Victoria (VIC): “Commitment Statement”
– Tasmania (TAS): “Commitment Statement”
– South Australia (SA): “Commitment Statement”
– Australian Capital Territory (ACT): “Commitment Statement”
– Western Australia (WA): “Commitment Statement”

Each state wants to ensure that you will thrive both economically and socially and will integrate well into the local community.

How We Can Help

At GTE EXPERTS, we assist applicants in writing Commitment Statements for all Australian states and territories. Whether it’s a Letter of Commitment for the Northern Territory or a Commitment Statement for Queensland, we ensure that your statement reflects your research and commitment.

As you can see, you don’t need a PhD to write an effective Commitment Statement. But you do need to be informed about the state’s job market, lifestyle, and whether it’s the right fit for you.

By providing professional assistance, GTE Experts help applicants like you effectively articulate their motivations, academic goals, and how their chosen state aligns with their long-term career aspirations and settling in Australia. This level of professional guidance can significantly improve your chances of having your visa granted, as a well-written Commitment Statement strengthens your case, making it easier for immigration officers to assess the validity of your application.

Contact us for expert guidance and support to ensure you get it right.

How to Write a Commitment Statement for Skilled Migration to Australia PDF