This amendment provides that applicants who nominate a skilled occupation, which has been specified by the Minister, must have been employed in the nominated skilled occupation for at least 12 months in the preceding 24 month period prior to making an application for a Subclass 175 (Skilled – Independent) visa. This will ensure that applicants for a Subclass 175 (Skilled – Independent) visa, who have nominated a specified skilled occupation hold relevant up-to-date practical experience in their nominated occupation.