The Government has announced significant changes to the Australia's visa system. The announcements were made today during the Jobs and Skills Summit. Here are the main takeaway points:
Increase to permanent migration allocations
The Government has increased the number of permanent migration visas available in 2022-23 by 35,000 from 160,000 to 195,000 places, effective immediately.
Within the overall planning level of 195,000 places:
142,400 places will be allocated to the Skill stream;
52,500 places will be allocated to the Family stream; and
100 places will be available for the Special Eligibility stream.
Within the Skill stream, there will be 34,000 places for Regional visas, an increase of 9,000 places compared to earlier projections.
Additional funding for visa processing
The Government will provide an additional $36.1m for visa processing, to support a surge capacity of 500 staff over the next nine months.
Other immediate actions
- Increase the duration of post study work rights by allowing two additional years of stay for recent graduates with select degrees in areas of verified skills shortages to strengthen the pipeline of skilled labour in Australia, informed by advice from a working group.
- Extend the relaxation of work restrictions for student and training visa holders until 30 June 2023 to help ease skills and labour shortages.
Planned actions
- Assess the effectiveness of the skilled migration occupation lists.
- Expand pathways to permanent residency for temporary skilled sponsored workers.
- Raise the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) following broad engagement on equitably setting the threshold and pathway for adjustment.
- Reform the current labour market testing process following consultation with unions and business.
- Bring forward a package of reforms to address migration worker exploitation during 2023.
- Examine the potential for industry sponsorship of skilled migrants.
For more information please Contact Us or email elan@ryshermigration.com.au
Elan Rysher is a Registered Migration Agent and Qualified Student Counsellor. He is the main Writer for ImmiUpdates and the founder of Rysher Migration. Elan has many years of experience working in immigration, finance and health. Being a former migrant himself, Elan is passionate about helping others fulfil their Australian dream.
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