Australian Immigration Daily News

Current as at 22 April 2020

To respond to COVID-19, the government has introduced flexible and temporary visa arrangements that support Australia’s public health measures. The Temporary Activity (subclass 408) Australian Government Endorsed Event (AGEE) stream visa (COVID-19 Pandemic event visa) is being utilised to manage the extraordinary circumstances that have arisen due to the COVID-19 pandemic event. The measure is temporary in nature, will be subject to ongoing review and will be wound back appropriately in line with the end of the pandemic. Who is eligible to apply for the COVID-19 Pandemic Event visa? The COVID-19 Pandemic event visa is available to people who are:

 in Australia

The Tasmanian Government has unveiled a $3 million package to support around 26,000 temporary visa holders stuck in the state because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Visa holders who can demonstrate immediate financial hardship will be eligible for $250 for individuals, and $1,000 for families.

Premier Peter Gutwein said it was "only fair" to support people who had contributed to the state's economy.

Migration Alliance member and RMA, James Hall, has provided this useful information:

I just came across another issue that would be of interest to others that use skillselect. See if you agree though first if you want to post. This is not a big issue but any miscalculation of dates can be crucial for certain applicants.

My client just got the notice that I've attached. The English test (IELTS) in this case was done on 22nd April 2017. The period of 36 months is to 21st April 2020. The letter states that 22nd April is more than 36 months and that my client's application may be refused. (We're hoping the state will finalise the nomination on today 22nd April).

Since the global financial crisis we have been impressing on clients the need to have a diversified portfolio, both by assets class and geographically. It’s been a sound strategy as over the past decade it has become clear we are in an age of change, and it is driving volatility and making the wealthy ponder how to protect their wealth.

Events like the GFC, European sovereign crisis in 2011, Chinese stock market crash in 2016, trade wars last year and COVID-19 this year have made markets difficult to navigate, and increased reliance on Australian migration and immigration agents to provide avenues for investment guidance.

We have adopted the term VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, confusion and ambiguity) to describe this change, and it is being driven by technology, globalisation, rising lifespans and increasing wealth in developing nations, particularly China.

It’s well-known that moving to a foreign country can be extremely stressful. There’s the pressure of settling into a new home, job or school, adjusting to the culture and language, and being far away from usual family and friend networks.

It’s also natural to feel worried about the impact of COVID-19, and social distancing and self-isolation can make things particularly challenging.

Providing mental health and wellbeing support for your clients is a crucial element of the important job you do.