As we welcome the new financial year, significant updates are transforming the Australian migration landscape. The ongoing Migration Strategy review is bringing incremental changes aimed at enhancing flexibility for temporary workers, tightening rules for employers, and updating student visa conditions. From July 1st, 2024, the Australian Department of Home Affairs is implementing substantial updates to visa conditions to improve worker protections, provide more flexibility for temporary visa holders, and enforce stricter compliance for employers. Here's how these updates will affect your journey in Australia:
Key Updates for Employers and Migrant Workers
Enhanced Flexibility for Employer Sponsored Visa Holders
Visa holders on subclasses 457, 482, and 494 now have up to 180 days at a time (with a maximum of 365 days total during their visa period) to find a new sponsor if they lose their job.
They can work for other employers and in different occupations during this period, with some exceptions.
Employers must notify the government of any sponsorship changes.
These changes apply to current and future visa holders from July 1st, 2024 onwards.
Increase in Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT)
The TSMIT will be raised from $70,000 to $73,150 starting July 1, 2024.
New employer sponsorship applications submitted after this date must meet the higher threshold.
Sponsorship applications for positions below the new TSMIT cannot be lodged.
Changes to UK Working Holiday Visa
From July 1, 2024, UK citizens can apply for a second or third Working Holiday visa (Subclass 417) without needing to complete specific industry work requirements.
The eligibility age for UK citizens increases to 35 years.
Visa Application Fee Increases
Fees for various employer-sponsored visas will increase, including TSS, ENS, and Training visas.
Reduced Experience Requirement for TSS Visa
From November 23, 2024, the work experience requirement for the TSS (subclass 482) visa will be reduced from two years to one year post-qualification.
Measures Against Visa Hopping
Starting July 1, 2024, certain temporary visa holders will no longer be able to apply for a student visa while onshore to prevent "visa hopping."
Stricter Compliance for Employers
The Migration Amendment (Infringement Notices) Regulations 2024, effective July 1, 2024, introduce higher fines and eliminate reduced penalties for first-time offenses, reinforcing stricter adherence to immigration laws.
Closure of Employer Nomination Scheme Age Exemption
The age exemption for former Subclass 457 visa holders applying for the Employer Nomination Scheme Subclass 186 visa expired on June 30, 2024.
Business Innovation and Investment Visa Closure
Australia will no longer accept new applications for the Subclass 188 visa from July 2024.
Simplified Process for Skilled Automotive Migrants
Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) now offers a streamlined process for qualified immigrants in automotive trades from select countries, effective April 1, 2023.
New Work and Holiday Visa for Philippine Citizens
Philippine citizens can apply for the Work and Holiday visa (Subclass 462) starting July 1, 2024.
Closure of Skilled Recognised Graduate Visa
The Subclass 476 visa program will close on July 1st, 2024.
Updates for Graduate 485 Visa
The age limit for Masters (Research) and PhD graduates applying under the Post-Higher Education Work stream will remain at 50 years old.
Modern Slavery Amendment Bill
Passed in May 2024, this bill creates an Anti-Slavery Commissioner to combat modern slavery in Australia.
Pacific Engagement Visa Introduction
Effective May 15, 2024, this visa supports the Pacific Engagement initiative.
Expansion of Orana DAMA
The Orana Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) has expanded to include additional regions and occupations.
New DAMA for Western Australia
A new DAMA has been announced for Western Australia, creating more opportunities for skilled migration.
New Ministerial Direction 110
Effective June 21, 2024, this directive emphasizes protecting the Australian community when deciding on visa refusals or cancellations under section 501.
ASEAN-Australian Partnership Expansion
From July 1, 2024, business visitors from ASEAN countries and Timor-Leste will have extended time to conduct business in Australia.
Free Migration & Visa Training for Employers
The Aussie Handbook offers free visa briefing and training for employers to help navigate these changes.
For more information or to schedule a briefing, contact The Aussie Handbook. We're here to support you through these significant changes and ensure a smooth transition in the new migration landscape.
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