On 1 July each year, the Australian Federal Government ushers in a host of changes to the Australian immigration program. This year however, we have witnessed minimal changes in this arena given that the Coalition Government has been focusing its energy on re-election and political campaigning.
New 12-Month Work Visa on Hold
In March this year the Government proposed a new 12-Month Work visa called the Short-Term Mobility visa. This visa was part of the Australian Government’s initiative to simplify work visas and enable Australian businesses more flexibility in terms of attracting skilled migrant workers for short-term periods of employment.
However, it seems with the Government focus being squarely on the election campaign, dealing with election results and a potentially hung-parliament, further discussion regarding the new Work visa has unfortunately faded into the background.
It seems that businesses looking to sponsor workers for a 12-month or longer period will need to continue to do so through the Temporary Work (Skilled) (subclass 457) visa route. For short-term business stays, either the Temporary Work (Short Stay Activity) (subclass 400) or the Visitor (Business Stream) (subclass 600) visa may be appropriate, depending on the purpose of travel.
So Far, No Increase in the subclass 457 Visa Salary Threshold
There was discussion by the Federal Government about increasing the current Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT). In order for an overseas employee to qualify for a subclass 457 visa, it is necessary for the base salary to be above the TSMIT, which currently stands at $53,900.
Business groups were concerned that an increase in the already high TSMIT would prevent Australian businesses from sponsoring overseas employees where required, especially in certain industries and regional areas where salaries across the board may be lower.
On 1 July 2016, it seems that the TSMIT will remain at $53,900 for the time being. Amendments to this figure will depend on the constitution of the Australian Federal Parliament which at this stage remains unclear.
Overhaul of the Student Visa Program
One significant change to the Australian immigration program which came into effect on 1 July 2016 is the new framework for Australian Student visas for international students. Introduction of this new system is intended to simplify the application process for students to obtain Australian visas in order to study in Australia.
From 1 July 2016, the only categories of Australian Student visas will consist of the following:
- The subclass 500 (Student ) visa; and
- The subclass 590 (Student Guardian) visa.
The new subclass 500 visa is intended to replace the current Higher Education Sector (subclass 573) visa, Postgraduate Research Sector (subclass 574) visa, Non Award Sector (subclass 575) visa, Independent ELICOS Sector (subclass 570) visa, School Sector (subclass 571) visa and the Vocational Education and Training Sector visa (subclass 572) visa. The new subclass 590 visa will replace the current Student Guardian (subclass 580) visa.
For a more detailed description regarding Australian Student visa changes, our article is available here.
An Underwhelming 1 July 2016
As Australia faces election uncertainty with the possibility of a hung Parliament, Australians are eagerly awaiting results for the final vote counts. In the midst of the political turmoil in Federal Parliament, immigration law and policy amendments are understandably remaining minimal.
We will keep our clients, colleagues and contacts updated with Australian immigration law changes. However, at the present time, aside from Student visas, the status quo generally remains unchanged.
For advice regarding Australian visas, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@hartmanlawyers.com.au for Australian immigration assistance.
Disclaimer:
The information on this website is intended only to provide a summary and general overview on relevant matters. It is not intended to be comprehensive nor does it constitute legal advice. You are advised to seek legal or other professional advice before acting or relying on any of the content contained in this website.