Key Updates in Immigration for the 2023-24 Financial Year in Australia

As the 2023-24 financial year commences on 1 July 2023, Australia unveils a series of noteworthy updates that hold significant implications for individuals seeking to live, work, and study in the country. These changes introduce new arrangements and extended opportunities for various categories of migrants, aiming to streamline processes, attract talent, and bolster the nation's workforce. From revised policies for Work and Holiday Makers to extended stays for select qualification holders, these updates reflect Australia's commitment to creating a welcoming and dynamic environment for all. In this article, we will discuss the key changes that came into effect during this financial year.

Elevated Threshold for Skilled Migration

Effective from 1 July 2023, the Australian Government has announced a significant increase in the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT), raising it from $53,900 to $70,000. This adjustment comes after the TSMIT remained unchanged since 2013, despite approximately 90 percent of all full-time jobs in Australia offering higher salaries than the existing threshold. The lack of adjustment had inadvertently undermined the effectiveness of the skilled migration system in Australia. By implementing this increase, the government aims to align the TSMIT with prevailing wages and reinforce the integrity and viability of the skilled migration program.

Increased Visa Application Charges

Effective July 1, the Australian Government has implemented a significant increase in visa application fees across various categories. The new fee structure introduces varying increments ranging from 6% to 40% for different types of visas. This adjustment is intended to reflect the evolving costs associated with processing visa applications and maintaining the necessary infrastructure and services. The government aims to ensure a sustainable and efficient immigration system while also generating revenue to support ongoing immigration initiatives and services. As a result, individuals planning to apply for visas to Australia should be aware of the revised fees and consider them while planning their immigration endeavors.

Direct Pathway to Australian Citizenship for New Zealand Residents

With the beginning of the new financial year an exciting opportunity awaits New Zealand citizens residing in Australia. Those who have been living in Australia for a minimum of four years can now directly apply for Australian citizenship, eliminating the requirement of obtaining a permanent visa beforehand. This new policy streamlines the citizenship process for eligible New Zealand residents, providing them with a more straightforward pathway to become Australian citizens. It presents a significant development, fostering closer ties between the two nations and offering greater opportunities for New Zealand citizens to fully integrate into Australian society.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) Joins Australia's Work and Holiday Maker Program

As of 1 July 2023, Papua New Guinea (PNG) has become the latest partner country to join Australia's esteemed Working Holiday Maker (WHM) Program. This new arrangement enables up to 100 PNG nationals to embark on a transformative journey to Australia through the Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa. To ensure a valid visa application for subclass 462, interested individuals are required to obtain a Letter of PNG Government Support. For more comprehensive information, please reach out to the PNG Department of Foreign Affairs for detailed guidance and support. This significant development serves as a testament to the expanding opportunities for cultural exchange and mutual enrichment between PNG and Australia.

Restriction in work for student visa holders

Starting from 1 July 2023, student visa holders are subject to work restrictions, allowing them to work a maximum of 48 hours per fortnight. The purpose of this change is to create a harmonious balance, allowing students to focus on their studies while still providing them with valuable employment opportunities that contribute to Australia's workforce needs. But there is an exemption to this regulation. Student visa holders who were already working in the aged care sector as of 9 May 2023 and continue to work in that sector are granted the privilege of working without any restrictions until 31 December 2023.

Extension of Post-Study Stay for Subclass 485 Visa Holders in Australia

Starting from 1 July 2023, certain international students who successfully complete specific qualifications in fields like science, medicine, healthcare, engineering, and technology will receive an extension to their post-study stay in Australia. The duration of stay will be extended as follows: from two years to four years for Bachelor's degrees, from three years to five years for Masters degrees, and from four years to six years for Doctoral degrees. The existing regional settings will remain in place, and an additional two years may be granted in certain cases. This policy aims to encourage and retain talented individuals in Australia, particularly in areas of high demand and expertise, contributing to the growth and development of these sectors.

Occupation & Skills Assessment Requirement for Graduate Work Stream Visa Applications

In the new financial year, there is a new requirement for Graduate Work stream visa applications in Australia. Applicants must now hold a qualification that is relevant to an occupation listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and undergo a skills assessment in their nominated occupation. This requirement was temporarily suspended between 1st July 2022 and 30th June 2023 but has now been reinstated. The purpose of this change is to ensure that applicants possess the necessary qualifications and skills in high-demand occupations to contribute effectively to the Australian workforce.

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