Immigration to Australia

Australia’s Diverse Wildlife: Must-See Animals and Where to Find Them

Australia is a land of remarkable contrasts, where sprawling deserts meet lush rainforests, and rugged coastlines give way to vibrant coral reefs. Amidst this breathtaking backdrop lies a treasure trove of diverse wildlife, offering endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. Join us as we embark on an immersive journey through Australia’s wild places, encountering iconic animals and observing them in their natural habitats.

Kangaroo Encounters in the Australian Outback

The iconic silhouette of a kangaroo hopping across the Outback is an image synonymous with Australia’s rugged landscape. With their powerful hind legs and distinctive bounding gait, kangaroos can be found throughout the country. While they are often spotted in open grasslands and woodland areas, some of the best places to observe these amazing creatures include National parks such as Flinders Ranges National Park in South Australia. This National Park offers ideal habitats for kangaroos, with expansive landscapes and diverse ecosystems providing ample opportunities for wildlife encounters. Kangaroo Island, located off the coast of South Australia, is another hotspot for kangaroo encounters, with its diverse habitats supporting a thriving population of these iconic creatures.

Koala Connections

Nestled among the branches of eucalyptus trees, koalas epitomize the laid-back charm of Australia’s east coast. These tree-loving marsupials spend much of their time dozing in the treetops, feasting on eucalyptus leaves. While once widespread, koalas are now primarily found in regions with suitable eucalyptus habitats, including parts of Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia. Wildlife sanctuaries such as Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane and the Koala Conservation Centre on Phillip Island offer visitors the chance to observe koalas up close and learn about conservation efforts aimed at protecting these beloved animals.

Discovering Australia’s Charming Wombats

With their sturdy build and endearing waddle, wombats are a familiar sight in Australia’s cooler regions. Wombats are resourceful, burrowing marsupials and are mostly found in forested areas and grasslands, where they excavate extensive burrow systems for shelter. Tasmania, with its rugged wilderness and temperate forests, is a stronghold for wombats, with national parks such as Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair providing ideal habitat for these solitary creatures. Narawntapu National Park, also located in Tasmania, is another excellent spot for wombat sightings, with its coastal heathlands providing ample grazing opportunities.

Australia’s Diverse Birdlife

Australia’s skies are alive with the sights and sounds of an incredible array of birdlife. From colourful parrots and cockatoos to majestic birds of prey and elusive songbirds, the country’s diverse habitats support an astonishing diversity of avian species. Birdwatching enthusiasts flock to destinations such as Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory, where wetlands teem with waterbirds and woodlands resonate with the calls of cuckoos and honeyeaters. Lamington National Park in Queensland is another popular birdwatching destination, with its subtropical rainforests providing a sanctuary for a multitude of bird species, including the elusive Albert’s lyrebird and the vibrant regent bowerbird.

Exploring Australia’s Underwater Realm

Australia’s coastal waters are home to some of the most diverse marine ecosystems on the planet, supporting an incredible variety of marine life. The Great Barrier Reef, stretching over 2,300 kilometres along the northeast coast of Queensland, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a mecca for marine enthusiasts. Snorkelers and divers flock to this underwater wonderland to explore its kaleidoscopic coral reefs and encounter a dizzying array of marine creatures, from colourful reef fish to graceful sea turtles and majestic manta rays. Ningaloo Reef, located off the coast of Western Australia, is another hotspot for marine biodiversity, with its crystal-clear waters providing unparalleled opportunities for swimming with whale sharks, the world’s largest fish, during their annual migration.

Australia’s Fascinating Reptilian Residents

Australia’s ancient landscapes are also home to a diverse array of reptilian inhabitants, from the formidable saltwater crocodile to the enigmatic, blue-tongued lizard. Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory is a haven for reptile enthusiasts, with its network of billabongs and wetlands providing habitat for a variety of species, including freshwater crocodiles and monitor lizards. The Kimberley region in Western Australia is another hotspot for reptile sightings, with its rugged terrain and dramatic gorges supporting populations of frilled-necked lizards, rock monitors, and goannas.

Prepare to be captivated by the extraordinary diversity of Australia’s wildlife as you embark on this immersive journey through its wild and untamed landscapes. Whether you’re exploring the vast expanses of the Outback, diving into the depths of the ocean, or wandering through ancient forests, Australia’s natural wonders are sure to leave an unforgettable mark on your soul.

How Can I Experience Australian Wildlife Responsibly?

For those seeking an immersive experience centred around conservation efforts, consider exploring with tour operators that are part of Australian Wildlife Journeys. These operators prioritize small group sizes, expert guidance, and a dedication to protecting Australia’s unique fauna, ensuring that your wildlife encounters are not only memorable but also contribute to conservation efforts.

Australia’s Indigenous communities have a deep connection to the land and its animals. Animals hold cultural significance as totems, sources of sustenance, sources of wisdom, and indicators of seasonal changes. Learning about native wildlife from an Aboriginal perspective offers a unique insight into their cultural significance and connection to nature. Discover Aboriginal Experiences offers specialized wildlife tours that provide a deeper understanding of this cultural connection.

By choosing tour operators with a focus on conservation and learning from Indigenous guides, you can have meaningful wildlife experiences while respecting and honouring Australia’s natural heritage.

 

Ready to embark on your Australian adventure? Whether it’s a tourist visa for a short visit or a working holiday visa for a deeper exploration, we’ve got you covered. Contact us to turn your dream of experiencing Australia’s wonders into reality.

https://intergate-emigration.com/australian-visitor-visas/

https://intergate-emigration.com/australian-working-holiday-visa-subclass-417/

https://www.myaustraliaimmigration.com/book-an-assessment/

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10 Best universities in Australia (2024)

best universities in australia

best universities in australia

The University of Melbourne ranks number 14 on the 2024 QS World University Rankings.

Do you know how many universities were included in the ranking?  A total of 1,500!

That means the University of Melbourne is in the top 2% of universities globally.

Here’s more about Australia’s best university and the nine other universities that made up Australia’s top 10 in the QS rankings:

1. University of Melbourne: Melbourne

  • Ranking: #14
  • Undergraduate Programs: 207
  • Postgraduate Programs: 204

The University of Melbourne educates around 65,000 students, including 30,000 international students from over 130 countries worldwide.

More about the University of Melbourne

  • The University of Melbourne is Australia’s leading research university and offers degrees in:
    • Arts
    • Biomedicine
    • Commerce
    • Design
    • Fine Arts
    • Music
    • Science
    • Agriculture
    • Oral Health
  • The University of Melbourne’s curriculum includes ‘Breadth Study’, which allows you to go beyond your study area. You could, for example, learn a new language or how to play an instrument.
  • Student life at the University of Melbourne includes various cultural activities, over 200 clubs and societies, and superb sports facilities.

2. University of New South Wales (UNSW): Sydney

  • Ranking: #19
  • Undergraduate Programs: 116
  • Postgraduate Programs: 127

The University of New South Wales (UNSW) educates over 60,000 students from 130 countries and prides itself on being known for “innovative, pioneering research and high-quality education with a global impact”.

More about the University of New South Wales:

  • UNSW has seven faculties:
    • Arts, Design and Architecture
    • Business
    • Engineering
    • Law and Justice
    • Medicine and Health
    • Science
    • UNSW Canberra
  • The university’s main campus is in Kensington, Sydney, with two more campuses in the city and a campus in Canberra.
  • UNSW ranks third in Australia and 27th in the world for graduate employability
  • The university fosters a culture of innovation and is “world leaders in solar power, sustainable materials and quantum computing.”

3. University of Sydney: Sydney

  • Ranking: #19
  • Undergraduate Programs: 95
  • Postgraduate Programs: 228

The University of Sydney prides itself on its excellence in research and teaching and offers the broadest range of academic programs in Australia.

More about the University of Sydney

4. Australian National University (ANU): Canberra

  • Ranking: #34
  • Undergraduate Programs: 574
  • Postgraduate Programs: 146

The Australian National University (ANU) is consistently Australia’s highest-ranking university. The university is renowned for its exceptional teaching, research, and small classes.

More about the Australian National University (ANU)

  • ANU has seven academic colleges that house several schools and research centres that specialise in a range of disciplines:
    • Arts and Social Sciences
    • Asia and the Pacific
    • Business and Economics
    • Engineering and Computer science
    • Health and Medicine
    • Law
    • Science
  • Australia’s top university has more Nobel Laureates among staff and alumni than any other university in the country.
  • ANU is in Canberra, but the university also has other campuses in the ACT, New South Wales and the Northern Territory that support the university’s teaching, learning and research.
  • Some examples of ANU’s research programs include:
    • Environment and Sustainability: Biodiversity, climate change, earth and environmental sciences, energy alternatives, and resource and environmental management
    • Health and Medicine: Combating diseases and conditions, health policy, mental health and cognition, and population health
    • Future Security: Food security, resilience and adaptation, secure networks, security policy, and strategy and defence
    • See the complete list of programs on ANU’s website
  • ANU has 150 cultural, social, and educational clubs, including a chess society, cooking, dance and debating clubs, a science revue and a sign language collective.

5. Monash University: Melbourne

  • Ranking: #42
  • Undergraduate Programs: 127
  • Postgraduate Programs: 214

Monash was founded in 1958. In the 64 years since then, Monash has grown from a single campus to a world-renowned university with a presence on four continents.

More about Monash University:

  • Monash has three international teaching locations, six campuses, and more than 100 partner universities
  • The university has over 150 active fields of research in areas as diverse as drug development and domestic violence, and more than 4,700 Higher Degree by Research students
  • Monash has 10 faculties offering numerous study areas:
    • Art, Design and Architecture
    • Arts
    • Business
    • Education
    • Engineering
    • Information technology
    • Law
    • Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences
    • Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
    • Science
  • Monash offers students the opportunity to start their degree in Australia and continue it at any of their 100 international partner institutions.

6. University of Queensland (UQ): Brisbane

  • Ranking: #43
  • Undergraduate Programs: 116
  • Postgraduate Programs: 209

The University of Queensland is known for “excellence in teaching, learning and research”.

It’s not just empty words!

In 2021, UQ ranked in the top 50 in the U.S. News Best Global Universities Ranking and the Performance Ranking of Scientific Papers for World Universities, and in the top 100 in the Academic Ranking of World Universities and the Times Higher Education World Rankings.

More about the University of Queensland:

7. University of Western Australia (UWA): Perth

  • Ranking: #72

The University of Western Australia is not only one of the world’s top universities but also a massive part of Perth’s cultural scene. The UWA is the founder of the Perth Festival, and its campus is home to several galleries, museums, and theatres.

More about the University of Western Australia:

  • The University of Western Australia has over 25,000 students, including more than 4,000 international students
  • UWA achieved five stars in the Good Universities Guide 2021 for Teaching Quality, Student Demand, and Student:Teacher Ratio.
  • The university has 22 schools and 12 study areas:
    • Agricultural, Environmental and Biological Sciences
    • Architecture, Design and Planning
    • Business and Commerce
    • Data and Computer Science
    • Education
    • Engineering
    • Health and Biomedical Science
    • Humanities and Social Sciences
    • Law
    • Music and Fine Arts
    • Physical Sciences and Mathematics
    • Psychology
  • The university also has 39 research centres and institutes and published 5,901 research publications.
  • UWA is the best university in Australia for on-campus events and activities, according to the International Student Barometer Survey. The university has:
    • State-of-the-art gym and sports facilities and equipment
    • Over 160 clubs and societies
    • Australia’s most active Student Guild
    • Numerous campus cafés, plus a grocery store, pharmacy, ATM, and more

8. University of Adelaide: Adelaide

  • Ranking: #89
  • Undergraduate Programs: 360
  • Postgraduate Programs: 198

The University of Adelaide prides itself on being a university with world-class degrees “infused with cutting edge research and technology that encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork and communication.

It’s not all talk, either! The University of Adelaide has produced 109 Rhode Scholars, 5 Nobel Laureates, and 130 Fulbrights Scholars.

More about the University of Adelaide:

  • The University of Adelaide has over 23,000 students from more than 100 countries, including China, India, Saudi Arabia, and Malaysia.
  • The University has three faculties, each with a number of schools and disciplines:
    • Arts, Business, Law and Economics
    • Health and Medical Sciences
    • Sciences, Engineering and Technology
  • Researchers at the University of Adelaide have contributed to game-changing inventions throughout history. Today, the research areas at the university include:
    • Agriculture
    • Food and Wine
    • Creativity and Culture
    • Defence
    • Cyber and Space
    • Energy, Mining, and Resources
    • Environment, Sustainability and Climate Change
    • Health and Biotech
    • Societal Wellbeing
    • COVID-19
  • Most of the university’s research is rated as ‘Above or Well Above Standard’ by the Australian Research Council’s Excellence in Research Australia program.
  • The university is recognised in South Australia as a significant contributor to the state’s health, wealth, and cultural life.

9. University of Technology Sydney (UTS): Haymarket

  • Ranking: #90
  • Undergraduate Programs: 184
  • Postgraduate Programs: 124

The University of Technology Sydney is a public university of technology, part of the Australian Technology Network (ATN) of universities. Its purpose is to ‘advance knowledge and learning through research-inspired teaching, research with impact and partnerships with industry, the professions and community.

More about the University of Technology Sydney:

  • The University of Technology Sydney offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses across 13 course areas:
    • Analytics and Data Science
    • Business
    • Communication
    • Design, Architecture and Building
    • Education
    • Engineering
    • Health
    • Health (GEM)
    • Information Technology
    • International Studies and Social Sciences
    • Law
    • Science and Mathematics
    • Transdisciplinary Innovation
  • UTS has exchange agreements with 185 universities worldwide so that UTS students can study at any of these universities during their degrees.
  • The university’s research centres are world-class, and its research focuses on six areas:
    • Health
    • Future Industries
    • Sustainability
    • Infrastructure
    • Communities
    • Transdisciplinary innovation

10. Macquarie University: Sydney

  • Ranking: #130
  • Undergraduate Programs: 184
  • Postgraduate Programs: 124

Macquarie University is a public research university based in Sydney, in the suburb of Macquarie Park. The university is home to more than 44,000 students, and awards more than 10,000 degrees each year.

More about Macquarie University:

  • Macquarie University’s students hail from more than 100 countries worldwide.
  • Macquarie University offers undergraduate, postgraduate coursework and research degrees across 13 areas of study:
    • Business
    • Law
    • Arts and Social Sciences
    • Media, Communications, and Performing Arts
    • Education
    • Science
    • Information Technologies
    • Psychology and Cognitive Science
    • Engineering
    • Medicine and Health
    • Languages and Linguistics
    • Security, Intelligence, and Criminology
  • The university is internationally recognised for its subject rankings:
    • Master of Marketing ranked #1 in Australia and #28 in the world (QS Business Master’s Rankings, 2024)
    • Master of Applied Finance ranked #2 in Australia and #39 in the world (QS Business Master’s Rankings, 2024)
    • Master of Management ranked #2 in Australia and #71 in the world (QS Business Master’s Rankings, 2024)
    • Master of Business Analytics ranked #2 in Australia and top 80 in the world (QS Business Master’s Rankings, 2024)
  • Macquarie University has five research priorities that provide a focal point for their cross-disciplinary research:
    • Healthy People
    • Resilient Societies
    • Prosperous Economies
    • Secure Planet
    • Innovative Technologies
  • Students, staff and partners at the main campus benefit from:
    • Australia’s most high-tech library
    • Australia’s first and only not-for-profit hospital 0n a university campus
    • The excellent location within in the Connect Macquarie Park Innovation District, one of the largest business and technology precincts in the Southern Hemisphere

Choose Australia for an excellent education!

It’s evident from the 2024 QS World University Rankings that Australia is a great place to study.

Narrow down at which university you’d like to study by choosing a course, considering the activities you’re interested in, and deciding where in Australia you’d like to live.

It’s safe to say that you can’t go wrong with so many great universities – no matter where you choose to study.

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Immigration News: June 2023

In June, the Australian Government announced changes to the Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485) Visa and the Student (Subclass 500) Visa.

Furthermore, some states and territories have made changes to their state-sponsored visa programs.

Please find the details below.

1. Extension of post-study stay for eligible Subclass 485 visa holders

The Australian Government has extended the post-study stay for eligible Subclass 485 visa holders by two years:

  • From two to four years for select Bachelor’s degrees
  • From three to five years for select Master’s degrees
  • From four to six years for all Doctoral degrees

To qualify for this extended stay, international students must have graduated from Australian higher education providers with eligible qualifications in areas such as science, medicine, healthcare, engineering, and technology.

2. Increase in permitted working hours for Subclass 500 visa holders

From 1 July 2023, Student Visa holders and associated bridging visa holders are allowed to work 48 hours per fortnight. The permitted working hours were 40 hours per fortnight up to January 2022, when the limit was temporarily relaxed to allow students to work unlimited hours.

The only exception to the new measurement is Student Visa holders already working in the aged care sector on 9 May 2023. These students can continue to work unrestricted hours in the aged care sector until 31 December 2023.

3. Australian State-Sponsored Visa Programs updates

Several state-sponsored visa programs have recently undergone changes, and some programs have closed until the new financial year:

Australian Capital Territory

  • The next SkillSelect invitation round will be held before 14 July 2023.
  • The ACT Nomination Guidelines have been updated:
    • The eligibility criteria have been adjusted, and
    • changes have been made to the Canberra Matrix.
  • The Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP) has closed for this financial year.

Northern Territory

The Northern Territory has new offshore General Skilled Migration nomination criteria, including:

  • Reduced work experience requirement – one year down from three years for most occupations
  • More occupations added to the Priority Occupations Stream
  • Expansion of the Family Support Stream to enable regional provisional (Subclass 489, 491 and 494) visa holders and those who hold bridging visas after having applied for regional permanent residency (Subclass 887 and 191 visas) to support family members who are applying for nomination

South Australia

  • General Skilled Migration Programs (Registration of Interest, Subclasses 491 and 190, 491 and 190 and the Business Innovation and Investment Program) closed to new applications on 8 June 2023. South Australia will:
    • delete any applications that had commenced but weren’t lodged before 8 June 2023 from the system, and
    • continue to assess existing applications that were lodged before 8 June 2023.
  • Pending an allocation of Subclass 190 visa nominations from the Commonwealth Government for the 2023-24 program year, applicants who are assessed as eligible for Subclass 190 visa state nominations will receive a nomination in the upcoming program year.

Victoria

  • The Victoria state nomination program has closed to Registrations of Interest (ROI).
  • Submitted ROI will continue to be assessed and selected for invitations to apply for Victorian visa nomination. If an ROI is withdrawn, applicants won’t be able to submit a new one until the 2023-24 program opens.

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Your Guide to Australia’s Global Talent Independent Program

global talent independent program

global talent independent programGlobal competition for talent is intensifying. Australia has entered the race with its Global Talent Independent Program.

The Global Talent Independent (GTI) Program is designed to attract the world’s brightest and best to Australia’s shores, and it offers migrants permanent residence through the Global Talent Visa (Subclass 858).

The ‘target market’, so to speak, are exceptionally talented and prominent individuals in eligible fields that can help secure a strong economy for Australia and enhance Australia’s reputation on the global stage.

Understanding the Global Talent Independent Program

The Global Talent Independent Program offers a migration pathway for individuals with internationally recognised records of exceptional and outstanding achievement in high-priority sectors that align with Australia’s desire for economic growth and innovation.

The sectors are as follows:

  • Resources
  • Agri-food and AgTech
  • Energy
  • Health industries
  • Defence, advanced manufacturing and space
  • Circular economy
  • Digitech
  • Infrastructure and tourism
  • Financial services and FinTech
  • Education

The GTI’s eligibility criteria

The Global Talent Independent Program sets strict eligibility criteria for migrants who want to apply for a Global Talent Visa. Let’s look at these in detail:

  • Internationally recognised: You must be internationally recognised with a record of achievement in an eligible field or high-priority sector, as listed above.
  • Exceptional and outstanding: You are currently prominent in your field and have been for the past two years, and:
    • have superior abilities to others in your field, and
    • are acclaimed as exceptional in any country where your field is practised, and
    • have a record of sustained achievement that is unlikely to diminish in the future.
  • Respected field: You must participate in a field that:
    • is recognised and accepted in Australia, and
    • has international standing.
  • Nomination: You must be nominated by an Australian citizen or permanent resident or eligible New Zealander or organisation with a national reputation in your field.
  • Meet the high-income threshold: You must be able to attract a salary at or above the Fair Work high-income threshold, which is currently AUD162,000 per annum. You can meet this requirement by:
    • Having a current salary at or above the threshold, or
    • Being able to show future job offers offering at or above the required remuneration, or
    • Having academic or professional qualifications relevant to a defined sector

You must prove your achievements

You must be able to prove your achievements when applying for a Global Talent Visa. You’ll submit the following evidence as proof:

  • Relevant qualifications and awards, particularly from internationally recognised organisations
  • Supporting statements from government, professional, scientific, cultural, sporting or other relevant bodies
  • Documentary evidence which demonstrates an exceptional and outstanding record of achievement that positions you amongst the very best in your field.

You must also demonstrate prominence in your field within the two years preceding your visa application. The proof should include the following:

  • A reference from a person or organisation qualified to assess your claims
  • Profiles of your achievements in any media, such as magazines, newspapers or TV programs

Younger than 18 or older than 55?

If you’re younger than 18 or older than 55, you must prove that you would be of exceptional benefit to the Australian community. The evidence you can submit includes but is not limited to the following:

  • Statement regarding your professional plans upon settling in Australia
  • Job offer or employment in Australia
  • Service agreements or business contracts in Australia
  • Pitch deck or business planning documentation for Australia
  • Grants associated with planned research in Australia
  • Membership or appointment on industry advisory boards or regulatory authorities in Australia

What does the Global Talent Independent Progam offer you?

The GTI Program is a pathway to living in one of the most desirable countries in the world. Australia is beautiful, safe, and prosperous, and Australians enjoy a lifestyle second to none.

On a more practical level, having a Global Talent Visa offers you all these benefits:

  • You’re a permanent resident, meaning you can live in Australia indefinitely
  • You can work and study in Australia
  • You can enrol in Medicare, Australia’s universal health insurance scheme
  • You can sponsor eligible relatives for Australian residency
  • You’ll be eligible to become an Australian citizen

That’s not all the Global Talent Visa offers, though. You’ll also benefit from the following:

  • You don’t have to provide a skills assessment
  • You don’t have to meet a minimum points threshold
  • You don’t need state or territory nomination
  • You can be up to 55 years old or older provided you can demonstrate exceptional economic benefit to Australia
  • You can be a recent PhD graduate in one of the key target sectors

The advantages of the GTI Program for Australia

The Global Talent Independent Program not only benefits migrants; it also offers major advantages to Australia.

For starters, it positions Australia as an attractive destination for skilled professionals looking to contribute their expertise, further their careers, and be part of a vibrant and inclusive society.

Furthermore, the Global Talent Independent Program fosters economic growth, skills enrichment, and innovation.

Let’s look at these in more detail:

1. Fosters economic growth

By attracting highly skilled professionals from around the world, the Global Talent Independent Progam brings expertise and talent to Australia that contribute to the growth of various industries.

Global Talent Visa holders often start businesses, invest in research and development, and create job opportunities, leading to economic stimulation and increased productivity.

2. Addresses skill shortages

The Global Talent Independent Program enables Australia to fill critical skills shortage gaps by bringing in professionals with specialised skills and knowledge that may be scarce in the local labour market, especially in STEM, healthcare and other high-demand sectors.

In turn, this allows industries such as science, technology, engineering, and healthcare to thrive and remain globally competitive.

3. Enhances research and development capabilities

Australia has a strong focus on research and development to drive innovation. Many of Australia’s top universities are known for their innovation initiatives.

The Global Talent Independent Program supports this focus by attracting researchers, scientists, and academics at the forefront of their fields. These individuals bring cutting-edge ideas, collaborate with local institutions, and contribute to groundbreaking research initiatives, positioning Australia as a hub for innovation and discovery.

4. Increases Australia’s global competitiveness and raise its reputation

The ability to attract global talent enhances Australia’s reputation on the global stage, and it shows that Australia offers opportunities, a favourable business environment, and a high quality of life.

As a result, Australia stands to attract further investments, collaborations, and talent, making it even more competitive in the global marketplace.

Explaining the Application Process

You’ll go through six steps when applying for a Global Talent Visa through the GTI Program:

Step 1: Eligibility Assessment

It’s crucial to determine if you qualify to apply for a Global Talent Visa before embarking on the application process. You can do this by completing an eligibility assessment with a licensed advisor.

Step 2: Gathering your documents

You’ll have to submit various documents with your application to support the claims you make in your application and show you meet the visa criteria. These documents include but are not limited to:

  • Evidence of your achievements in an eligible field
  • Identity documents
  • Nominator documents
  • Partner documents, if your spouse or de facto partner is joining you

Step 3: Preparing and submitting your Global Talent Expression of Interest

You must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to indicate your interest in applying for a Global Talent Visa. Your EOI form and all supporting documentation must be submitted in English.

At this stage, you should already have a suitable nominator and a completed Nomination for Global Talent – Form 1000 as well as your nominator’s supporting documents to add to your EOI. These documents increase your chances of getting an invitation to apply for the Global Talent Visa.

Step 4: Receive an Invitation to Apply for a Global Talent Visa

If your Expression of Interest is deemed to be successful, you will receive an Invitation to Apply for the Global Talent Visa. Invitations are usually valid for 12 months.

Step 5: Applying for your Global Talent Visa

You can submit your visa application once you’ve received an Invitation to Apply and have gathered all the required documents.

Step 6: Visa outcome

You’ll get the outcome of your visa application once Australia has decided on it. You can be in or outside Australia when your application is decided.

Processing times:

The Department of Home Affairs assess visa applications on a case-by-case basis, and processing times can vary due to individual circumstances. For example:

  • Whether you’ve lodged a complete application, including all required supporting documents
  • How quickly you respond to requests for additional information
  • How long it takes to perform required checks on supporting information that you provided
  • How long it takes to receive extra information from external agencies about health, character, and national security requirements
  • How many places are available in the migration program

The Department of Home Affairs does however state on its website that 90% of Global Talent pathway applications are processed within seven months (May 2023).

Addressing Misconceptions about the Global Talent Independent Program

There are a handful of misconceptions about the Global Talent Independent Program, as with many other Australian visa categories.

Let’s clear up four prominent misconceptions:

1. The Global Talent Independent Program is only for individuals in highly technical fields like science and technology

While the Global Talent Independent Program is designed to attract individuals in STEM fields, it is not limited to these areas.

The GTI Program welcomes talented professionals from various industries, including but not limited to healthcare, academia, the arts, and business.

The focus is on exceptional talent and skills that can contribute to Australia’s economy and society across a broad range of sectors.

2. The Global Talent Visa is difficult to obtain, and the application process is complex

While the Global Talent Visa requires applicants to demonstrate exceptional talent or skill, it is not unattainable or excessively complex.

The GTI Program has clear eligibility criteria and application guidelines. By following the steps and providing the required evidence, individuals with outstanding achievements in their respective fields have a fair chance of securing a Global Talent Visa.

Seeking assistance from migration agents or lawyers can also simplify the process and ensure you meet all requirements.

3. The Global Talent Independent Program is only for young professionals or recent graduates

The GTI Program is not limited to young professionals or recent graduates. It is designed to attract skilled professionals at various stages of their careers who can contribute significantly to Australia’s economy, innovation, or cultural landscape.

4. The Global Talent Visa requires a job offer or sponsorship from an Australian employer

You do not need a job offer or sponsorship from an Australian employer to apply for the Global Talent Visa, but you do need a suitable nominator with a national reputation in your field who can attest to your achievements and prominence.

In conclusion

The Global Talent Independent Program offers you the chance to live and work in Australia if you have exceptional talents and skills to help the country thrive economically and compete globally.

While application requirements are stringent, Global Talent Visa applicants enjoy several concessions. You don’t have to provide a skills assessment, you don’t have to meet a minimum points threshold, and you can be up to the age of 55. You could even apply if you’re older, provided you can prove an exceptional economic benefit to Australia.

The advantages of the Global Talent Visa don’t end there. You’ll get permanent residence if your visa application is successful! And, as a permanent resident, you can sponsor eligible relatives to join you in Australia, enrol in Medicare, and apply for Australian citizenship.

The first step towards a Global Talent Visa and PR is an eligibility assessment to see if you meet the requirements. It’s a small step but could reap massive rewards. You’ll be on your way to making one of the best countries in the world your home if you qualify for the Global Talent Independent Program!

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Immigration News: April 2023

April was a busy month! ACT Migration released a state nomination update, physiotherapists from South Africa now qualify for an express pathway of their skills assessments, and eligible New Zealanders will have a direct pathway to Australian residency from 1 July.

1. ACT State Nomination Update

On Thursday, 20 April 2023, ACT Migration announced it’s easing nomination requirements for the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) and the Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491). The announcement also included news of the expansion of the state’s skilled occupation list.

Easing of state nomination requirements:

ACT Migration is making the following nomination requirement changes:

  • Relaxing the employment criteria for Subclass 190 and 491 visas
  • Lowering the English language requirements for Subclass 491 visas
  • For visa applicants from overseas:
    • Easing relationship and spouse/partner employment requirements
    • Awarding more points for relevant overseas work experience
    • Making it easier to claim points for an ACT job offer
    • Making amendments to the renomination policy
  • For visa applicants living in Canberra:
    • Easing the minimum threshold criteria
    • Easing the ‘Length of ACT Residence’ requirements

Expanded skill occupation list:

Due to the continuing skills shortages in the ACT, ACT Migration added 128 occupations to the state’s skill occupation list. These occupations are across several industries ranging from ICT and life sciences to healthcare and trades.

Please see the ACT Government website to see the skill occupation list in its entirety.

2. Physiotherapists from South Africa are now eligible for the FLYR pathway

The Australian Physiotherapists Council has included South Africa in its list of countries that qualify for an express pathway of their skills assessments.

What is the FLYR pathway?

The Australian Physiotherapist Council’s FLYR pathway exists for countries whose physiotherapy education, training, regulation and practice have been assessed to be substantially comparable to Australia.

The advantage for physiotherapists is a streamlined assessment process towards becoming a physiotherapist in Australia. Eligible candidates bypass the Clinical Assessment stage, and the Cultural Safety Training and Written Assessment can be completed without travelling to Australia.

Aside from being from one of the eligible countries, candidates must also:

  • Have completed an entry-level physiotherapy qualification in an approved FLYR country
  • Held registration without restriction with the relevant regulatory body within the past five years
  • Able to practice without any restrictions
  • Have an entry-level qualification that is diploma-level or higher, except for Singapore candidates that must have completed a Bachelor-level degree

3. Direct pathway to Australian citizenship for New Zealanders

On 22 April 2023, Australia announced a new direct pathway to Australian citizenship for eligible New Zealand citizens. The pathway comes into effect on 1 July 2023, and applies to Special Category Visas (Subclass 444) holders who’ve arrived in Australia since 2001.

This immigration policy change will make it much easier for New Zealanders to obtain Australian citizenship:

  • It won’t be necessary for eligible New Zealanders to become permanent residents before applying for citizenship. Instead, all that’s required is four years of having lived in Australia and being able to meet the standard citizenship criteria.
  • Eligible New Zealanders also won’t have to meet minimum income requirements or health criteria.
  • New Zealand children born in Australia will become citizens at birth instead of only getting citizenship at 10 years old.

The policy change also brings the rights of New Zealanders living in Australia more in line with those of Australians living in New Zealand. New Zealanders will have access to services and benefits associated with citizenship, such as student loans and unemployment benefits.

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Australian work visa options for people over 45

australian work visa options for people over 45

australian work visa options for people over 45

Skilled migration to Australia has a strict age requirement. You must be under the age of 45 to apply for a visa. However – there are Australian work visa options for people over 45! You could:

  • apply for a Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482), or
  • explore age exemptions options under the Designated Area Migration Agreements.

Let’s look at each option in detail:

1. Applying for a Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482)

The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482) allows employers to sponsor overseas workers to live and work in Australia on a temporary basis. It allows visa holders to stay in Australia for up to two or four years, depending on the nature of the skilled position.

The TSS Visa has three streams:

Depending on your eligibility, you could apply for a TSS Visa under one of three streams:

  1. Short-term stream: This stream enables employers to hire skilled workers from overseas for roles where they can’t find suitably skilled Australians to fill positions.
  2. Medium-term stream: Like the short-term stream, the medium-term stream allows employers to hire skilled workers from overseas for roles where they can’t find suitably skilled Australians to fill positions.
  3. Labour agreement stream: This stream is for skilled workers nominated by employers with a Labour Agreement. Labour agreements are developed between the Australian government and employers.

Requirements:

  • Short-term stream: You must be nominated to work in an occupation on the list of eligible short-term skilled occupations.
  • Medium-term stream: You must be nominated to work in an occupation on either the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or the Regional Occupation List (ROL).
  • Labour agreement stream: You must be nominated to work in a specified occupation under the terms of a Labour Agreement.

You must also:

  • Have at least two years of relevant work experience in your nominated occupation or a related field
  • Have a relevant skills assessment if it’s required for your occupation
  • Work only for your sponsor or associated entity unless you are exempt under the Short-Term or Medium-Term Stream
  • Meet minimum standards of English language proficiency unless you are exempt.

How long you can stay:

  • Short-term stream: You can work in Australia for up to two years, or for up to four years if an International Trade Obligation (ITO) applies. Hong Kong passport holders may stay up to five years.
  • Medium-term stream: You can work in Australia for up to four years. Hong Kong passport holders may stay up to five years.
  • Labour agreement stream: You can work in Australia for up to a maximum of four years, depending on the terms of the labour agreement. Hong Kong passport holders may stay up to five years.

Taking your family with you:

You can include family members in your TSS visa application. The family members you can add will depend on whether you currently hold a TSS visa or Subclass 457 visa.

If you’ve never held a TSS visa or a Subclass 457 visa, you can include the members of your family unit, which are:

  • Your spouse or de facto partner
  • Your child, or your partner’s child, who is not engaged, married or in a de facto relationship and is:
    • Under the age of 18 or
    • Between the ages of 18 and 23 and dependent on you or your partner
    • 23 years old or older and dependent on you or your partner due to a partial or total physical or mental disability
  • The dependent child of the child above

Extending your stay:

To extend your stay in Australia after the expiry date of your visa to continue working for your existing employer, your employer must submit a new nomination, and you must apply for a new visa.

Applying for permanent residence:

  • Short-term stream: Your employer may be able to sponsor you for permanent residence through the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) or the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (Subclass 187).
  • Medium-term stream: Your employer may be able to sponsor you for permanent residence through the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) or the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (Subclass 187).
  • Labour agreement stream: Your employer may be able to sponsor you for permanent residence through the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186).

The application process:

The application process for the TSS visa generally has four steps:

  1. Before you apply: Ensure you have or will get nomination from your prospective employer, and arrange elements of the visa application such as a skills assessment and an English language test.
  2. Gathering your documents: Documents you may have to provide could include documents for your identity, character, skills, work experience, health and English language skills.
  3. Applying for your visa: You submit your visa application.
  4. Getting the visa outcome: You get the outcome of your visa application.

2. Explore age exemptions options under the Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMA)

Australia has several Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMA) in place.

These agreements are a type of Labour Agreement negotiated between the Department of Home Affairs and employers or industrial associations instead. Their purpose is to enable employers to sponsor skilled and semi-skilled overseas workers for positions they’re unable to fill with local workers and in response to identified market shortages.

The advantage of DAMAs is that these agreements have lower entry requirements than standard migration programmes, including concessions to age criteria.

The age limit for visa and PR applicants is raised from 45 to 55 for occupations with Skill Level 1 to 4, and up to 50 years old for Skill Level 5 occupations.

12 Existing DAMAs:

There are 12 DAMAs in place at the moment in Australia:

  1. Orana, New South Wales
  2. Goulburn Valley, Victoria
  3. Great South Coast, Victoria
  4. Pilbara, Western Australia
  5. South West, Western Australia
  6. The Goldfields, Western Australia
  7. East Kimberley, Western Australia
  8. Far North Queensland, Queensland
  9. Townsville, Queensland
  10. The Northern Territory DAMA, Northern Territory
  11. Adelaide, South Australia
  12. South Australia Regional, South Australia

Your visa options:

Under DAMA, you have one of two Australian work visa options:

Requirements:

Your employer must have a labour agreement with the Australian government in effect. The basic requirements for each visa are as follows:

  • Temporary Skill Shortage Visa:
    • You’re nominated for a skilled position by an approved sponsor.
    • You have the right skills to do the job.
    • You meet the relevant English language requirements.
  • Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491):
    • You’re nominated in an occupation that’s on the relevant DAMA skilled occupation list.
    • You have a formal offer of employment from your employer, and your salary meets the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) unless there is a concession in place.
    • You have the qualifications and experience necessary to work in your nominated occupation.
    • You meet the English language requirements unless there is a concession in place.

How long you can stay:

  • Temporary Skill Shortage Visa: You can live and work in Australia for up to four years when applying under the labour agreement stream.
  • Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491): You can live and work in Australia for up to five years.

Taking your family with you:

  • Temporary Skill Shortage Visa: You can include family members in your visa application. The family members you can add will depend on whether you currently hold a TSS visa or subclass 457 visa. If you’ve never held a TSS visa or a Subclass 457 visa, you can include the members of your family unit.
  • Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491): You can include members of your family unit in your application.

Extending your stay:

  • Temporary Skill Shortage Visa: Your employer must submit a new nomination, and you must apply for a new visa to extend your stay in Australia.
  • Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491): You cannot extend your Subclass 491 Visa.

Applying for permanent residence:

  • Temporary Skill Shortage Visa: Your employer may be able to sponsor you for permanent residence through the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186).
  • Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491): You have a pathway to permanent residence through the Permanent Residence (Skilled Work Regional) Visa (Subclass 191)

How to apply:

The application processes for the TSS Visa and the Subclass 491 Visa generally have four steps:

  1. Before you apply: Ensure you have or will get nomination from your prospective employer, and arrange elements of the visa application such as a skills assessment if you’re applying for a Subclass 482 Visa OR submit your Expression of Interest if you’re applying for a Subclass 491 Visa.
  2. Gathering your documents: Documents you may have to provide could include documents for your identity, character, skills, work experience, health and English language skills.
  3. Applying for your visa: You submit your visa application.
  4. Getting the visa outcome: You get the outcome of your visa application.

Summarising your Australian work visa options when you’re over 45

Too old for skilled migration? There are Australian work visa options for people over 45 that enable you to live and work Down Under.

You could apply for a Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482) or explore age exemptions under a Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA).

Under the TSS Visa, there are three visa streams, and under one of Australia’s 12 DAMAs, you can apply for either a Temporary Skill Shortage Visa or a Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491).
Depending on your visa, you could live and work in Australia for up to two, four or five years.

Your stay doesn’t have to be temporary. The Subclass 491 Visa offers a pathway to permanent residence, and your employer may be able to sponsor you for permanent residence when you hold a TSS Visa.

Book your consultation call today to see if you qualify for any of these work visas.

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Immigration News: October 2022

In October, the Australian Government published a Ministerial Direction for prioritising skilled visa applications. The government also announced streamlined requirements for temporary visa applicants in Australia.

1. Skilled visa processing priorities

A new Ministerial Direction for prioritising skilled visa applications came into effect on 28 October 2022.

In line with the Direction, the Australian Government will prioritise skilled visa applications for the health and education sectors and offshore permanent and provisional applications. It’ll apply to all skilled visa nominations and applications yet to be decided and new applications lodged.

The aim is to improve skilled visa processing times and clear visa backlogs. Shorter processing times will benefit visa applicants and assist small businesses with critical labour shortages it has to fill quickly.

The Direction also restores priority to Accredited Sponsors and signals the end of the Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List (PMSOL) and critical sectors.

“The PMSOL was outdated and no longer reflected the critical workforce shortages seen across Australia,” said the Australian Government in a statement. “Applications with occupations that were on the PMSOL or in critical sectors will continue to be processed efficiently given the improvements in visa processing since the Government committed additional funding and staff to reduce processing times,” the government added.

2. Streamlined requirements for temporary visa applicants in Australia

​The Australian Government announced that it is streamlining requirements for temporary visa applicants in Australia.

Going forward, only some eligible visa applicants must undertake relevant medical examinations and/or chest x-rays.

That will include visa applicants that:

  • have applied for a medical treatment, temporary protection or a provisional visa,
  • expect to incur medical costs or require medical treatment,
  • intend to work as (or study to be) a doctor, dentist, nurse or paramedic,
  • will enter a hospital, aged or disability care facility (if there is a higher tuberculosis risk),
  • are pregnant and intending to have the baby in Australia,
  • will work or train at an Australian childcare centre,
  • are aged over 75 years (if applying for a visitor visa),
  • have had previous household contact with tuberculosis, or
  • are requested to do so by the Department of Home Affairs

Other temporary visa applicants in Australia are not required to undertake medical examinations and chest x-rays to meet the health requirement.

These arrangements apply to the following visas:

  • 401 Temporary Work (Long Stay Activity)
  • 403 Temporary Work (International Relations)
  • 405 Investor Retirement
  • 407 Training
  • 408 Temporary Activity
  • 410 Retirement
  • 417 and 462 Working Holiday
  • 461 New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship (Temporary)
  • 476 Skilled – Recognised Graduate
  • 482 Temporary Skill Shortage
  • 485 Temporary Graduate
  • 500 Students
  • 590 Student Guardian
  • 600 Visitor
  • 870 Sponsored Parent (Temporary)
  • 995 Diplomatic (Temporary)

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9 of Australia’s top recruitment agencies

Eager to live and work in Australia but overwhelmed by the prospect of having to find a job? No idea where to start or who to contact?

Then we might have what you’re looking for – a list of Australian recruitment agencies.

You’ll find some of Australia’s top recruiters on this list. Their areas of expertise range from IT and mental health to construction and mining.

1. Randstad

Founded in the Netherlands in 1960, Randstad was established in Australia in 2009. Randstad has several offices across Australia and specialises in several key industries, including education, engineering, health and social care, IT, and trades and labour.

www.randstad.com.au

2. JPS Medical Recruitment

JPS Medical Recruitment specialises in the recruitment of healthcare and medical professionals. Their areas of expertise are aged care, allied health, general practice, hospital doctors, medical imaging, and senior appointments.

www.jpsmedical.com.au

3. Australia Wide Engineering Recruitment

Australia Wide Engineering Recruitment offers specialist engineering, technical and manufacturing recruitment services. The company has offices in Melbourne and Sydney, and its recruitment consultants are engineers themselves, which means they know the engineering industry inside out.

www.australiawide.com.au

4. Clicks IT Recruitment

Clicks IT Recruitment is one of Australia’s top five IT recruitment agencies. Clicks recruit across all IT sectors, including development, cyber security, and business information, and have vacancies across Australia.

https://clicks.com.au

5. Stellar Recruitment

Stellar Recruitment has been providing recruitment solutions and advice since 2006. The company has won numerous awards, including Outstanding Large Agency of the Year and individual team members being named Recruitment Leader of the Year. Stellar Recruitment’s areas of expertise range from mining and energy to agriculture and logistics.

www.stellarrecruitment.com

6. Aptus Personnel

Aptus Personnel is a team of specialist consultants in the built environment space. The recruiters connect job seekers with opportunities in Buildings, Land and Infrastructure, Construction, and Architecture, Planning and Design. You’ll find their office in Melbourne.

https://aptuspersonnel.com.au

7. Brightside Recruitment

Brightside Recruitment provides recruitment, consultancy, and support to organisations and individuals within the welfare, NPO and charity sectors. The company services specific sectors, including psychology, allied health, mental health, aged and disability, and child, youth and family.

http://brightsiderecruitment.com.au

8. Building Partners Recruitment

Building Partners Recruitment offers recruitment services to skilled people in architecture, engineering, construction, and trades. The company has worked alongside top industry brands such as A.G.Coombs, AE Smith and the ARA Group.

www.buildingpartnersrecruitment.com

9. Hays

Hays offers recruitment services in a wide range of industries. These industries include education, energy, manufacturing and operations, oil and gas, sustainability, and technology. You’ll find vacancies in 41 Australian cities and towns listed on their website, a salary guide and a section with career advice.

www.hays.com.au

How can a recruiter help you?

Using a recruiter is free, so there’s no reason not to work with one when you’re job hunting in Australia.

Here’s how it’ll benefit your job search:

  • Recruiters are experts in their fields who can give you industry information and tips to help you succeed in your job search
  • Recruiters often know about jobs not being advertised on job boards or social media
  • Specialist agencies in your industry have connections in the companies you should approach
  • Recruiters can help you with your CV and advise you on your career path.
  • When you apply for a job, the recruiter follows up on your application, so you don’t have to
  • Using a recruiter is free!

Our advice?

Seriously consider working with a recruitment agency!

Many Australian employers use recruiters to screen candidates, especially for specialist and high-level jobs. Also, with a recruiter by your side, especially when you’re job hunting before you immigrate, you have a much bigger chance of finding the perfect job.

Please note: Intergate Emigration is not affiliated or associated with any of the above recruiters.

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Immigration News: September 2022

In September, South Australia opened its Business Migration program, and Migration Tasmania opened the next interim stage of its Skilled Migration State Nomination Program.

Continue reading for the details.

South Australia’s Business Innovation and Investment Program is open

South Australia’s Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP) is open for the 2022-23 program year.

The Business Migration program is designed to attract high-quality business owners, investors and entrepreneurs who can create genuine and sustainable economic opportunities in South Australia that’ll benefit the state’s economy, local businesses and workforce.

Four visa streams under the Subclass 188 visa

The Business Migration program has four visa streams available for nomination under the Business Innovation and Investment visa (Subclass 188):

  • Business Innovation Stream (188A)
  • Investor Stream (188B)
  • Significant Investor Stream (188C)
  • Entrepreneur Stream (188E)

South Australia has received an interim allocation of only 70 nomination places, so competition is stiff.

It is no surprise that applicants for the Business Innovation Stream (188A) must submit an Intention to Apply (ITA) for consideration.

Interim opening for the Tasmanian Skilled Migration State Nomination Program to Gold and Green pass candidates

The 2022-23 Tasmanian Skilled Migration State Nomination Program is opening in stages.

In this stage, candidates who meet the minimum requirements of the Subclass 190 or Subclass 491 visa and have at least one gold or green priority attribute can register their interest in nomination by Migration Tasmania.

Eligible candidates must receive an invitation from Migration Tasmania before applying for nomination, and candidates who are nominated will be able to apply for a work visa.

Migration Tasmania has said it’ll release information about the next interim stage soon.

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Australia increases Migration Program intakes by 35,000 places!

migration intake increase

migration intake increaseOn Friday, 2 September, the Australian Government announced that it’s immediately increasing the 2022-23 Migration Program intakes by 35,000 places to 195,000.

That decision was only one of several resolutions made at the Jobs and Skills Summit on 1 and 2 September.

The Summit was held to agree on actions to help build a stronger economy and a stronger Australia, and it brought together businesses, unions, and industry to address shared economic challenges.

Below we’ll summarise all the actions and strategies the Australian Government undertook with regards to immigration.

Immediate actions from the Jobs and Skills Summit

The Australian Government committed to actions to build a bigger, better trained, and more productive workforce during its Jobs and Skills Summit. The Summit also laid out priorities for further work and future action.

For immigration, the Government committed to take the following immediate actions to address skills shortages and strengthen the migration system:

  • Increasing the permanent Migration Planning level to 195,000 in 2022-23 to help ease widespread, critical skills shortages
  • Providing AUS$36.1 million in additional funding to accelerate visa processing and resolve the visa backlog
  • Increasing 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
  • Extending the relaxation of work restrictions for student and training visa holders until 30 June 2023 to help ease skills and labour shortages
  • Widening the remit of the National Housing Infrastructure Facility, making up AUD$575 million available to invest in social and affordable housing. The funding can be used to partner with other tiers of government and social housing providers and to attract private capital.

The Government’s areas for further work

In addition to the immediate actions agreed upon during the Skills and Job Summit, the Australian Government also committed to reviewing Australia’s migration system’s purpose, structure, and objectives to ensure it meets the challenges of the coming decade.

The Government will also progress work to:

  • 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 following 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 the migration worker exploitation during 2023
  • Examine the potential for industry sponsorship of skilled migration
  • Embed a role for Jobs and Skills Australia’s analysis of skill shortages in setting priorities for the skilled migration program
  • Consider policies to address the regional labour shortages and how to improve small business access to skilled migration.

Furthermore, all levels of government will work together to ensure infrastructure, housing and social services are well planned to meet the needs of a growing population.

The Government has also committed to implementing the recommendations of the Migrant Workers’ Taskforce to tackle migrant worker exploitation.

In summary

The Australian Government has committed to actions and future strategies to build a stronger labour market and economy to benefit all Australians.

That includes addressing skills shortages and strengthening the migration system.

The first step was increasing the Migration Program planning levels by 35,000 to 195,00 places in total for the 2022-23 Migration Program Year.

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