Hi we are applying for the 189 visa shortly. I'm a little confused with the English test. My partner has to take it but does he have to do the Academic IELTS or the General Training one.

Thankyou

For the Department, either one is acceptable. However, the skills assessor for his profession may require a specific one.

Who is the primary applicant, you or him? If it is you, are you at 60 points or more without IELTS? I am asking as you haven't mentioned IELTS for yourself - if you are the primary applicant, the more points the better, as it's not "60 points and you're in." It's a ranking so while 60 points it the minimum to go into the invitation pool, it is possible to have 60, 65, or even more points and not get an invitation.

For most occupations though you would get an invite with 60 points - it's only the pro-rata'd occupations that have an issue.

OP, if your partner is taking IELTS as not from exempt country, then either test is acceptable. Just because you do not have to do an academic test does not mean you can't do it. Academic tests often having a shorter wait time. If your partner is doing it as they are the primary applicant and need points, again either test will do. If IELTS is needed for a skills assessment, they will usually specify the test they require. If you need IELTS for skills assessment, there is nothing to stop you using the same certificate with DIBP.

Thankyou for the reply.
My partner is the main applicant he is a fitter/welder and we want to go for the 189 visa. I don't think he has enough points without doing the test. I'm a hairdresser so I don't get any points for the visa I don't think.

As it is just for points then the general test is all that is needed. There is plenty of information, sample questions, etc available for practice if you google it. IELTS is four tests - reading, listening, writing and speaking.