Software and Applications Programmer NEC ANZSCO 261399 may be a suitable occupation for anyone who works in software development, but their job description doesn’t fit into one of the other IT occupations.
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This role is for people whose work does not clearly fit into any of the specific software programming jobs listed. They design, test, update and support software systems as part of their daily work.
These workers still perform advanced ICT tasks. They can be involved in software development, application support, debugging, testing, system improvement, or automation.
Many niche programming jobs fall under this category.
This is among the most common of the inquiries individuals will have.
NEC means “Not Elsewhere Classified”.
Occupations that are classed as specialised ICT roles that do not fully align with the other official ANZSCO occupations will be considered when this is used.
For example:
Example Role | May Fit Under 261399 |
Game Tools Programmer | Yes |
Embedded Software Specialist | Yes |
Automation Programmer | Yes |
Middleware Developer | Yes |
Niche Application Specialist | Yes |
This is why many applicants use this ANZSCO code for ACS migration purposes.
The work depends on the daily work of the company and project. Still, most professionals under this code perform tasks like these:
Task | What It Means |
Analyse software systems | Explore the operation of applications |
Write and update code | Build or improve programs |
Test software | Check for bugs and errors |
Debug applications | Fix technical problems |
Improve performance | Improve systems, making them faster and stable |
Create documentation | Prepare technical reports |
Support users | Help solve software issues |
The majority of individuals in this role collaborate directly with developers, analysts, testers and system groups.
For migration to Australia, you need a positive ACS skills assessment.
The body that checks your skills is called the Australian Computer Society (ACS).
ACS checks:
This step matters a lot when it comes to migration.
Qualification | Typical Experience Needed |
ICT Degree | Around 2 years |
Related ICT Degree | Around 4 years |
Non ICT Qualification | Around 6 years |
No Degree | Around 8 years plus RPL |
The final result depends on having a complete profile.
Under this occupation there are many applicants applying for RPL.
This is because many NEC professionals have non-standard roles or no formal ICT degree.
RPL is another way of saying Recognition of Prior Learning.
You usually need:
Your projects should clearly show programming and software development skills.
The value of the migration of this occupation is high as it is listed both:
That is a major advantage.
Benefit | Result |
MLTSSL Listing | Access to long term skilled visas |
PMSOL Listing | More streamlined visa processing process |
High ICT Demand | Better employment chances |
Skilled Migration Access | More visa pathways |
Very few blogs so precisely describe the PMSOL advantage, but it can aid with applications that run faster than numerous other professions.
If you have positive ACS, you could be eligible for a couple of visa routes.
Visa | Type |
Subclass 189 | Skilled Independent |
Subclass 190 | State Nominated |
Subclass 491 | Regional Skilled |
Subclass 482 | Employer Sponsored |
Subclass 186 | Permanent Employer Sponsored |
Visa regulations may change and it is always best to look up the latest immigration news.
This job calls for someone with technical knowledge and the ability to solve problems.
Many employers also value cloud and automation experience.
Software and Applications Programmers work in many industries.
Some common sectors include:
A large number of workers in this occupation are employed in Professional, Scientific and Technical Services.
Working from home is quite common in this field too.
Experience Level | Average Salary |
Entry Level | AUD 75,000 to 90,000 |
Mid Level | AUD 90,000 to 120,000 |
Senior Level | AUD 120,000+ |
Workers with cloud, automation, cybersecurity, or specialised software experience may earn higher salaries.
Picking the right ANZSCO code is something a lot of applicants struggle with. Here is a simple breakdown to make it easier to compare:
ANZSCO Code | Main Focus |
261311 | Analyst Programmer |
261312 | Developer Programmer |
261313 | Software Engineer |
261399 | Specialised or niche programming roles |
If your duties don’t quite fit any of the standard programming occupations NEC might be the right one for you.
1. What does NEC mean in ANZSCO 261399?
NEC means “Not Elsewhere Classified”. It is for specialist occupations that are not adequately classified by other occupations listed in the ANZSCO.
2. Is ANZSCO 261399 on the MLTSSL?
Yes. It sits on the MLTSSL which opens up access to skilled migration visas.
3. Is PMSOL important for this occupation?
Yes. Occupations for PMSOL may be given priority for faster processing of migration applications.
4. Do I need an ICT degree?
Not always. No degree is not the end of the road. If you have enough work experience you can still apply through the RPL pathway.
5. Who assesses Software and Applications Programmer NEC?
The ACS is the body that takes care of the skills assessment process.
Software and Applications Programmer NEC ANZSCO 261399 is a solid career choice for software professionals whose work is specialised or doesn’t fit neatly into standard programming categories.
A lot of applicants miss this one completely because they don’t know what NEC means. But honestly it could be the right fit for many experienced developers.
The occupation sits on both the MLTSSL and PMSOL. That opens up multiple visa options and better long term career potential in Australia.
If your work involves software systems, coding, debugging, testing or application support but does not clearly match another programming occupation, this ANZSCO code is worth looking into.
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