In a highly anticipated development, the Migration Strategy was officially launched today, heralding a new era in Australia’s migration landscape. Our team at Migration Guru, a leading migration law firm in Australia, is diligently analyzing the comprehensive 100-page document and will provide our esteemed members with an in-depth report in the coming days.
In the interim, we are pleased to offer our members a preliminary overview of this ground-breaking strategy, meticulously crafted to enhance the efficiency of our skilled migration system. The overarching goal is to focus on skills essential for bolstering productivity and leverage permanent migration to cultivate an innovative and effective workforce for Australia’s future. The strategy is underpinned by eight key actions:
- Targeting Temporary Skilled Migration: Addressing skills needs and promoting worker mobility.
- Reshaping Permanent Skilled Migration: Driving long-term prosperity.
- Strengthening International Education: Enhancing integrity and quality.
- Combatting Worker Exploitation: Addressing misuse of the visa system.
- Strategic Migration Planning: Ensuring the right skills in the right places.
- Tailoring Regional Visas and Working Holiday Maker Program: Supporting regional Australia.
- Deepening Indo-Pacific Ties: Building people-to-people connections.
- Simplifying the Migration System: Improving the experience for migrants and employers.
While some aspects of the strategy are pending finalization after further consultation, key announcements include:
Migration Program Planning:
The government will extend migration planning beyond the current 12-month cycle, ensuring collaboration with states and territories. Net overseas migration numbers are anticipated to decrease, stabilizing at a lower level in the coming years.
Skilled Temporary Visas:
A new three-tiered visa system replaces the TSS SC 482, offering clear pathways to permanent residency. The specialist skills visa, with a quick 7-day processing turnaround, stands out, targeting high-earning professionals.
Skilling Australians Fund:
Consideration is given to collecting the SAF in smaller increments over time, aligning with the greater flexibility for visa holders to change employers.
Labour Market Testing:
Streamlining LMT, including abolishing the requirement to advertise on the Workforce Australia site, marks a key change. The advertising period will increase, and LMT will be gradually phased out as skills shortage data improves.
Points Tests:
The points test will undergo review, with consultation on a new, analysis-based points test to identify migrants making the greatest contribution.
Temporary Graduate Visas:
Significant changes are planned, targeting international graduates with skills required by Australian employers. This includes reducing the length of stay, preventing reversion to student visas, and raising English language requirements.
Student Visas:
A revamped student visa program will focus on higher English language levels, restricting eligible courses, preventing course swapping, and enhancing funding for visa integrity.
Education Agents:
Regulation of education agents will be expanded through the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority.
Regional Migration:
Acknowledging past shortcomings, the government plans to work closely with states and territories to target regional population needs, fast-tracking regional visa applications.
Working Holiday Makers:
While no changes are confirmed, the program’s length of stay and the 88-day rules are under consideration.
Global Talent and Business Skills:
The Global Talent program will be more sharply focused, with consideration of a new ‘talent and innovation’ visa. The Business Innovation and Investment Program will undergo adjustments.
Foreign Investment Fees for Property:
Foreign investors buying established homes will face increased fees, and penalties for leaving them vacant will be elevated.
Consultation on limiting the involvement of unregistered overseas providers and strengthening regulation for registered migration agents is on the agenda.
At Migration Guru, we are committed to providing our members with detailed insights into the Migration Strategy, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the changes ahead. Stay tuned for our upcoming report and join us at the members’ session for an in-depth discussion
For more information contact Our team via email at info@migrationguru.com.au or by calling 07 3036 3800. Readers are encouraged to follow us on Facebook for all the updates.
