ANZSCO 261112 : Systems Analyst

A Systems Analyst looks at how existing ICT systems work and finds ways to make them better. This can mean adding new components, changing how a process runs, or building a new system altogether to meet what the business actually needs. It is a Skill Level 1 occupation, so a bachelor degree or higher is usually required, though five or more years of relevant experience or vendor certification can sometimes be accepted instead.

The role of a Systems Analyst in Australia is to work with users to formulate system requirements, develop plans and documentation, review and evaluate existing systems, and design or modify systems so they fit the business better. Non-ICT analysts such as Management Consultants are not included in this unit group.

• Working with users to write down and agree on business requirements
• Studying business processes, procedures and work practices to find problems
• Spotting inefficiencies and recommending better ways of working and better system behaviour
• Using project management methods to plan, cost, resource and manage projects
• Deploying functional solutions, including creating and running system test plans
• Creating user and training documentation, and running formal training sessions
• Developing functional specifications that developers can actually build from
• Using data and process modelling techniques to create clear system specifications
• Acting as the main point of reference during system project decisions

This occupation appears on the following skill list:

Because this occupation is on the MLTSSL, you can apply for General Skilled Migration visas including the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189), the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190, which needs state or territory nomination), and the Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491). If you have a job offer, employer sponsored options may also apply, including the Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482), the Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186), and the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa (subclass 494).

The Department of Home Affairs updated its approved English tests and score thresholds on 7 August 2025. The ACS does not require an English test for the skills assessment itself, but you still need to meet one of these levels for your visa application.

• Australian graduates may be eligible for exceptions depending on their state or territory
• Priority Skilled Lists in some states and territories may set their own specific requirements
• Citizens of the UK, Canada, New Zealand, the US and Ireland are generally exempt from providing test scores for Competent English

In practice, a Systems Analyst spends more time inside the system itself than an ICT Business Analyst does. Where a Business Analyst focuses on gathering what the business wants, a Systems Analyst is the one who evaluates how the existing system actually behaves, then works out what needs to change at a technical level to get it there. That means digging into current workflows, data models and system architecture, not just interviewing stakeholders.

Testing and quality sit close to the centre of the role. A Systems Analyst is usually involved in building the test plan, checking that a modified or new system genuinely meets the requirement, and staying on the project until the solution is confirmed working, not just designed.