May - Newsletter -2023

Migration Updates??

Increase to TSMIT : One key point to be aware of is that the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) will rise to $70,000 on 1 July 2023. This means that skilled professionals who wish to work in Australia under a temporary visa will need to meet this income threshold. While the details are still being worked out, it has been confirmed that grandfathering provisions will be provided.?

NZ Citizens' Direct Pathway to Australian Citizenship: Another important update is that from 1 July 2023, certain New Zealand citizens will be eligible to apply for direct Australian citizenship. However, details about the process and treatment of SC 461 VH partners of NZ citizens are still being clarified.?

Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement: The A-UKFTA will come into effect on 31 May 2023, providing new opportunities for skilled professionals to work in either country. This agreement will allow Australian businesses to expand into the UK market, and vice versa. However, details about LMT and other provisions are still being negotiated.?

Aged Care Labour Agreement: The government has also announced an Aged Care Labour Agreement to address skills shortages in this sector. This agreement provides additional incentives for employers to attract workers, including an expedited two-year pathway to permanent residency. We can help you navigate this agreement and assist with visa applications for your employees.?

To learn more about these updates and how they might impact various industries, please click here to read the key points of the migration review.?

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Expanded pathways to permanent residence

By the end of 2023, the TRT stream will be available to all Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa holders, reducing the eligibility period from three years to two years of employment with the sponsoring employer. The new eligibility criteria will not be limited to the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).?

In addition, the Government is removing limits on the number of Short-term stream TSS visa applications that visa holders can make in Australia. These changes will provide more equitable access to permanent residence, as well as certainty for TSS visa holders and their employers.?

This is a great opportunity for your business to ensure a permanent employer sponsored pathway is available for a wider range of occupations, helping alleviate skills shortages and securing the future of your skilled workforce.?

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Federal Budget – 2023- 2024:? Immigration Summary???

Attention all professionals in Australia and those interested in immigration policies.?

The Australian Government has recently released its budget for 2023, outlining changes to the Department of Home Affairs and the migration program. As of July 1, 2023, there will be an increase in the migration planning level to 190,000 places, with a focus on skilled migration.??

Additionally, visa application charges will increase by 6% to 40% and there will be an increase in the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) from $53,900 to $70,000.?

But that's not all! The government is also investing in visa processing, compliance, and monitoring efforts, and extending programs such as the Escaping Violence Payment (EVP) and Temporary Visa Holders Experiencing Violence Pilot (TVP).??

If you're an international student, you'll want to know about the new capped work hour limit and post-study work rights. And for those in the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility scheme, there will be additional training places created to address job shortages in Australia.?

It's an exciting time for the migration program in Australia, with these changes set to shape the future of immigration policies.?

?Check out the full article to learn more!?

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From Our CEO?

?Nine News Interview: We are excited to announce that our CEO and Principal Migration Agent, Melanie Macfarlane, was recently featured in an engaging and informative discussion on Australian citizenship with Monica Kos from Nine News Perth. Click here to watch the interview.?

Recorded Webinar: Upcoming Changes and How They Impact Your Business?

We also invite you to check our recorded webinar, which covers important topics such as changes to TSMIT, the different pathways to citizenship, and how they might impact businesses and their employees. Led by our CEO and Principal Migration Agent Melanie Macfarlane, this webinar offers guidance on how to navigate the changes effectively, while also allowing you the opportunity to hear the direct concerns of employees who will be impacted by these changes.?

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Company Insights?

New Headquarters in Sydney?

In other news, we are excited to announce that we have a brand-new office space located at

6 Cuthbert St, Sydney 2000.NSW.

As we continue to grow, we are constantly striving to provide the best experience for our team and clients. If you are in the area, please feel free to drop by and say hello!?

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Employee Feature: Barsha Shreshta?

Lastly, we would like to feature our diligent new case manager, Barsha Shreshta, who is a seasoned professional in the migration industry. Her wealth of experience and meticulous approach make her an invaluable asset to our team.

We hope that this newsletter has provided you with valuable insights into the recent updates in the Australian migration and recruitment landscape. While the changes may seem daunting, there are various pathways available for businesses and their employees to navigate the process successfully. One such pathway is the 407 – Employer-Sponsored Training Visa, which can provide an excellent opportunity to sponsor skilled professionals to gain work experience in Australia.?

As always, our team is here to assist you with any migration-related queries or concerns you may have. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you require any assistance or advice.?