Today, the Australian Government has unveiled the Migration Strategy, which lays out significant enhancements to the Australian immigration process. This plan aims to cater to the country's future needs and ensure benefits for Australia, including its citizens, companies, authorities, and newcomers.
Currently, over fifty percent of Australians either come from overseas or have parents who were born in another country.
Australian New Immigration Plan for Skilled Migrants.docx
1. Australian New Immigration Plan for
Skilled Migrants
Today, the Australian Government has unveiled the Migration Strategy, which lays out significant
enhancements to the Australian immigration process. This plan aims to cater to the country's future
needs and ensure benefits for Australia, including its citizens, companies, authorities, and newcomers.
Currently, over fifty percent of Australians either come from overseas or have parents who were born in
another country.
The Migration Strategy sets out five main objectives for the Australian immigration system. To reach
these objectives, the government will carry out eight important actions, supported by over 25 new
policy promises and existing obligations.
The 2023 Review of the Migration System, the first thorough examination of the migration process in a
generation, revealed a crucial issue: "The core issue facing the migration system today stems from a lack
of clear understanding regarding Australia's goals and objectives in migration."
Conducted by Dr. Martin Parkinson AC PSM, the Migration Review highlighted that the system was in
such disrepair that it necessitated a "10-year rebuild."
Australia's Focus on Temporary Skilled Migration
Australia's temporary visa programs serve various purposes, allowing individuals to visit, study, and
work in the country. Some temporary visa holders may apply for extensions, while others may pursue
permanent residency through the Migration Program.
As part of the Migration Strategy, the Australian government aims to focus on temporary skilled
migration to address skill shortages and facilitate worker mobility. One proposed action is the
introduction of a Skills in Demand visa, featuring three specific pathways. These pathways would cater
to the needs of various industries, such as technology or green energy, by making it easier to attract
highly skilled workers.
Additionally, a Specialist Skills Pathway is proposed to streamline the process of bringing in experts in
specialized fields. Moreover, a Core Skills Pathway is suggested to meet specific workforce
requirements, supported by an updated occupation list reflecting Australia's skill needs.
Furthermore, the government plans to implement new visa settings to enhance migrant workers'
mobility in the labor market, aiming to combat worker exploitation and boost productivity. This includes
streamlined visa processing to expedite the entry of skilled workers into Australia.
2. The Permanent Skilled Migration Strategy of Australia
To foster long-term prosperity, the Migration Strategy proposes exploring a revamped points system for
permanent skilled migration, along with introducing a new Talent and Innovation visa for migrants who
can contribute to growth in vital sectors.
Furthermore, the strategy emphasizes support for regional Australia and its workforce by enhancing
regional visas and the Working Holiday Maker Program. The Working Holiday Maker Program allows
young adults to enjoy a 12-month holiday while engaging in short-term work and study opportunities.
To simplify the immigration process, the government plans a comprehensive streamlining agenda,
aiming to streamline visa settings, reduce visa categories, and improve user-friendliness. As part of this
initiative, the Migration Strategy pledges to eliminate over 20 unnecessary and redundant visas, making
the visa system more straightforward.
In the 2023-24 Budget, the Australian Government has allocated around 70% of places in the permanent
Migration Program to the Skill stream and approximately 30% to the Family stream, with partner and
child visas responding to demand.
Additionally, from July 1, 2023, the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) will increase
from $53,900 to $70,000, ensuring fair wages for temporary skilled migrants. Furthermore, Temporary
Graduate visa holders with select degrees will receive an extra two years of post-study work rights,
enhancing the availability of skilled labor in critical sectors.
What is Australian Immigration?
Australian immigration refers to the process of people relocating to Australia from other countries,
either temporarily or permanently. It involves obtaining visas for various purposes such as tourism,
education, employment, or joining family members.
Managed by the Department of Home Affairs, the Australian immigration system oversees visa
applications and implements immigration policies. It covers both temporary stays, like tourism or work
visas, and permanent residency options, such as skilled migration or family reunification.
Australia's immigration policies are aimed at attracting skilled individuals, investors, and contributors to
the economy and society. The system strives to meet the country's labor market needs, address skill
shortages, and support regional development, all while ensuring the security and integrity of the
immigration process.
In summary, Australian immigration is essential for shaping the country's demographics, culture, and
economy, fostering diversity, and contributing to its growth and development.