IELTS is not strictly mandatory, but proving English proficiency is essential for Australia PR. The Department of Home Affairs accepts several approved tests — IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, OET, and Cambridge C1 Advanced. For points-tested visas like 189, 190, and 491, a minimum of Competent English is required (e.g., IELTS 6.0 in each band), which awards 0 points. Proficient English (IELTS 7.0 each) gives +10 points, and Superior English (IELTS 8.0 each) gives +20 points. While you can choose any accepted test, IELTS General Training remains one of the most widely used for Australian immigration applications.