The Albanese government introduces vital changes, enhancing visa processes for migrant workers and international students to fix Australia’s ‘broken’ migration system!
Australia witnessed a peak in migrants at 510,000 last fiscal year, but projections show a return to normality: 375,000 next year and 250,000 in 2025. The Australian government, unveiling a 10-year migration strategy, outlines optimistic plans to manage migration effectively. Proactive policies are driving this positive shift. Without them, migration levels would have lingered at 440,000 next year and 305,000 the following year. The nation looks forward to a brighter, well-managed migration future.
So, how does the government plan on decreasing migration levels by almost half?
New Visa
The government has three main goals for its migration strategy:
- Improve living standards for Australians.
- Ensure good working conditions.
- Strengthen international relationships.
They’re introducing a new visa called the “skills in demand” visa, replacing the current temporary skill shortage visa. This new visa will give workers more opportunities to move employers and will provide clear pathways to those wanting to obtain a PR. There are three pathways (that are planned to develop) to the four-year visa, with each tier defined by the skill level –
- Specialists Skills: to attract highly skilled workers from sectors such as energy and technology. This pathway will be accessible to applicant’s earring at least $135,000 in any occupation (excluding trade workers, divers, labourers, and machinery operators).
- Core Skills: This pathway caters to individuals possessing vital skills essential for workforce requirements. It incorporates a regularly updated and “streamlined” occupation list, evolving over time to align with the dynamic job market in Australia.
- Essential Skills – this pathway particularly focuses on skilled migrants with lower income.
Language requirements to study
The Australian government is committed to elevating standards for international students and education providers, ensuring that those who come to study experience a positive and lasting impact rather than remaining “permanently temporary.”
To enhance the quality of students’ educational journeys in Australia and prevent potential workplace exploitation, the government is implementing higher English language requirements. This positive step includes a score increase under the International English Language Testing System, with Graduate visa applicants now needing a 6.5 (up from 6.0) and student visa applicants requiring a 6.0 (up from 5.5). By addressing these standards, the government aims to foster a more enriching and secure experience for international students and graduates!
Visa hopping clampdown:
As part of the new 10-year plan, a more thorough examination will be conducted for those seeking a second visa. This measure responds to the rising trend of international students extending their stay in Australia through multiple student visas.
The governments migration strategy acknowledges the increasing occurrence of international students transitioning between courses. especially those below their current study level, to prolong their stay. To address this, the government will implement increased scrutiny on international students applying for additional student visas. This scrutiny will be done through the genuine student test, requiring students to demonstrate that any further education they seek will advance their academic goal or further their career.
For more information on these new updates, please contact IME Advisors and one of our expert migration agents will be happy to help!
