Official requirements.
A relevant recognised qualification which is at, or above, the qualification level on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework. The qualification must correspond to the skill level indicated for that occupation in the Australian New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO)
http://skillshortages.immigration.go...nt-consultant/
Most occupations in this unit group have a level of skill commensurate with a bachelor degree or higher qualification.
http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@....+Professionals
There's nothing in this to say that you HAVE to have a degree. I don't suppose you will get any sleep for a while yet because of this issue, but in your place I would still be thinking I have a case to fight. Of course you'll get your LIA on it as soon as possible. And of course, we don't yet know what she's going to email him about.