On Tuesday, May 14, 2024, the Treasurer unveiled the Federal Budget, featuring pivotal immigration announcements shaping Australia’s future migration landscape. Here’s an overview of the key immigration announcements:
Permanent Migration Program
For the planning Level: The program for 2024/25 is set at 185,000 places. Additionally, about 70%, or 132,200 places, are for the Skill stream to meet Australia’s long-term needs.
Stability and Planning: A new 4-year planning horizon will provide more stability.
Reference: Link
System Reforms
Investment: $18.3 million will be invested over 4 years to improve the migration system and protect migrant workers. This includes giving them clear information about their rights and ensuring fair treatment.
Data-Matching Pilot: A pilot program will be launched to identify and prevent the exploitation of migrant workers.
Processing Times and Backlogs
This is another key point that brings us more hope since the Government commits to reduce visa processing times. More staff at the Department of Home Affairs will help improve efficiency and speed up applications.
Southeast Asia Engagement
Funding: $505.9 million over 5 years from 2023/24 will deepen engagement with Southeast Asia. This includes $1.1 million over 2 years to improve visa access and offer long-validity business and frequent traveller visas for ASEAN countries and Timor-Leste.
Work and Holiday Visas
Moreover, a new ballot system for Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visas will start in 2024/25 for applicants from China, Vietnam, and India. This system will involve a $25 ballot charge, indexed to CPI.
Mobility Arrangements for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES)
New Pathway: Starting November 1, 2024, the MATES program will offer 3,000 Indian graduates and early-career professionals a chance to live and work in Australia for up to 2 years. The fees include a $25 ballot charge and a $365 application charge, both indexed to CPI.
Extended Business Visitor Visas for Indian Nationals
Moreover, Business Visitor visas for Indian citizens will be extended from 3 years to 5 years.
National Innovation Visa
Equally, a new National Innovation visa will replace the Global Talent visa (subclass 858) from late 2024. It will target exceptionally talented migrants to drive growth in key sectors.
Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP)
Upon program cessation, the BIIP will cease, and refunds will be available from September 2024 for applicants wishing to withdraw.
Reduced Work Experience for Subclass 482 Visa
Additionally, starting November 23, 2024, the Department of Home Affairs will reduce the required work experience for the Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) visa from 2 years to 1 year.
New Administrative Review Tribunal
Furthermore, significant investment will establish a new Administrative Review Tribunal to replace the Administrative Appeals Tribunal. Consequently, this will help address court backlogs in migration decision reviews.
Modern IT Solution for Skills Assessments
For TRA Improvements: A business case will develop a modern ICT solution for Trades Recognition Australia. This will speed up the availability of skilled workers.
Support for Refugees and Migrants
Settlement Services: $120.9 million will enhance settlement services for refugees and migrants to improve economic and social integration.
The Leaving Violence Program
Finally, program funding totaling $925.2 million over 5 years from 2023/24 will make the Leaving Violence Program permanent. This initiative will consequently provide financial support and safety assessments for victim-survivors of intimate partner violence.
For tailored advice on how these changes might impact your immigration goals, contact MyMate Australia to speak with our experts. Please note that changes to the migration program can occur without notice. The above information is current as of the date of writing.
