Australia's Skilled Migration Point System: A 2024 Update

Australia is renowned for its comprehensive point-based skilled migration system, which has been a cornerstone of its immigration policy for years. In 2024, the country is set to implement a revised points system, aiming to better align with the nation's long-term economic and social prosperity.

The new system, as outlined in the Department of Home Affairs' discussion paper from April 2024, proposes several key reforms to the existing points test. The changes are not about increasing the number of immigrants but rather enhancing the quality of skilled migrants entering the country.

One of the significant shifts in the new system is the focus on characteristics associated with successful integration into the Australian workforce. The reformed points test will prioritize applicants who are likely to find skilled work and contribute to Australia's economy over the long term. It also aims to provide migrants with greater certainty regarding their prospects for permanent residence, avoiding a state of 'permanent temporariness'.

The new points test will target skills that are in demand in Australia, now and in the future, reflecting the country's commitment to the net zero transition and other economic priorities. Younger migrants, who will spend more years contributing to the Australian workforce, will be favored in the point’s allocation.

Additionally, the new system will recognize the potential contributions of partners of skilled migrants. This is a shift from the previous system, where partners' skills were often undervalued in the point’s calculation.

The proposed framework will clearly delineate between different visa programs, such as the Skilled Independent visa program, which will use the points test to focus on long-term prosperity, and the Employer Nominated program, which will address immediate skills needs. A talent and innovation program will also be introduced to focus on candidates with exceptional characteristics.

The points table for the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) will continue to award points based on age, English language skills, skilled employment experience, and educational qualifications. However, the distribution of points within these categories is expected to change to reflect the new priorities.

For instance, there will be more points available for having a skilled spouse or de facto partner, being nominated by a State or Territory government, or being sponsored by a family member residing in regional Australia. Points will also be awarded for possessing certain STEM qualifications, which are increasingly in demand in the Australian job market.

To qualify for the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), applicants will still need to meet a minimum points threshold, which was previously set at 65 points. It is anticipated that this threshold may be adjusted to reflect the new point’s distribution and to maintain a competitive selection process for skilled migration.

The new points system is a testament to Australia's adaptive and forward-thinking approach to immigration. It reflects a nuanced understanding that the success of the nation's migration program is not just about numbers but about attracting the right mix of skills and talents to drive Australia's long-term success.

For those interested in migrating to Australia under the skilled migration program, it is crucial to stay informed about these changes and how they might affect your eligibility and prospects. The official department of home affairs website and authorized migration agents are valuable resources for the latest information and guidance.

Note: Visa2land Pty Ltd is a registered and approved immigration & education consultancy based in Melbourne, Australia. You can drop us an email with your query at: [email protected] – www.visa2land.com