Australia's New Migration Strategy
Fostering Skilled Workforce and Sustainable Growth
On 11 December 2023, the Australian government revealed its much-anticipated Migration Strategy, which includes 8 significant changes set to reshape its immigration landscape in 2024. Here is an overview of the key developments:
1. “Skills in Demand" Visa in Australia
Replacing the existing “Temporary Skills Shortage” visa, the government introduces a 4-year visa, emphasizing temporary skilled migration. It offers greater flexibility for workers to change employers and paves the way for permanent residency. The visa comprises three pathways:
- Tier 1 – Specialist Skills Pathway: Recognising highly skilled specialists earning minimum of $135,000 annually.
- Tier 2 – Core Skills Pathway: Focused on in-demand skilled employees, such as Registered Nurses in regional hospitals, identified through the Core Skills Occupation List.
- Tier 3 – Essential Skills Pathway: Catering to sector-specific roles earning under $70,000, addressing ongoing shortages, particularly in care and support positions. The New Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement aims to provide up to 9,000 direct care workers over five years.
2. Permanent Skilled Migration
Individuals can apply for permanent residency visas using a point-based system, aiming to identify migrants contributing to Australia’s long-term prosperity. A new Talent and Innovation visa is under consideration to drive growth in nationally important sectors.
3. Changes to Student Visas
Stringent English language criteria, a “Genuine Student Test”, and a reduced age limit of 35 for applicants (commencing mid-2024) aim to strengthen the quality of international education and deter those focusing more on work than studies.
4. Tackling Worker Exploitation
Legislation, increased powers, and substantial penalties will combat worker exploitation. Migrants will receive enhanced support to understand their workplace rights, with additional protections against visa cancellations.
5. Long-term Migration Planning
Collaboration with states and territories for strategic, long-term skilled migration planning to ensure the right skills in the right places.
6. Regional Migration and Working Holiday Maker Program
Focus on regional migration, with expedited processing for regional visa applications and support for the Working Holiday Maker program to benefit both regions and workers.
7. New Visa for Indo-Pacific Migrants
Introduction of the Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV) to create a direct pathway to Australian Citizenship for eligible migrants from Pacific countries.
8. Simplifying the Migration System
Efforts to eliminate unnecessary visas, reducing backlog and processing delays, creating a more streamlined and efficient migration system.
Other changes:
Discontinued Pandemic Event Visa: From February 2024, the Pandemic Event Visa will be discontinued, along with uncapped working hours for international students, aiming to return migration numbers to near-pre-pandemic levels.
Improved Refugee Visa System: A continued focus on strengthening the refugee visa system for real-time priority processing of Protection Visa applications.
Impact on employers:
Employers are advised to review policies related to visa holders, identify industry skill gaps, and engage in relevant forums to stay informed of legislative changes.
How IgniteHR can assist:
IgniteHR recommends an initial HR System Audit to ensure organisations have robust policies in place. By proactively assessing HR systems, IgniteHR helps identify areas for improvement, ensuring alignment with evolving legal requirements and fostering a compliant and proactive workplace culture.
Ignite HR & Employment Law is supporting businesses to understand their obligations, upgrade their current policies, undertake training and information sessions for businesses. If you find yourself in a situation where a staff member makes allegations in relation to any of these workplace behaviours you may need to do an investigation we can assist in addressing a sexual harassment or bullying complaint.
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