There was recently a change to the English language requirements for applicants for subclass 186 and 187 visas visa Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream, making Competent English almost a must to obtain permanent residence under skilled migration programs.
Applications for Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa (subclass 186) and Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) visa (subclass 187) made under the TRT stream lodged on or after 1 July 2017 will require, at a minimum, an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) (or equivalent test) score of 6 in each component (Competent English).
Previously there was an English language skills exemption for those who have nominated earnings at least equivalent to the current Australian Taxation Office top individual income tax rate (AUD 180,001), however, this exemption has also been removed from 1 July 2017.