Australian Immigration Daily News

Over the last 12 months, OMARA sanctioned 28 Migration Agents for breaching the Code of Conduct.  These sanctions are published on OMARA’s website and publicly disclose the name of the Migration Agent, sanction details as well as nature of the investigation.

Understanding the Code of Conduct is vital for both the consumer as well as the agent. Code of Conduct is the key document which underpins the relationship between the Registered Migration Agent (RMA) and the regulator, the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA) is the “Code of Conduct”. That document provides a framework for compliance and, in my view a useful platform for the development of successful practice in Migration law.

Although on one view the Code can be viewed as a compliance tool, I prefer to approach the Code as a codification of a system of work that requires a standardised approach which is ultimately beneficial rather than oppressive.

1. New Arrangements for Working Holiday Visas

The Department of Home Affairs has confirmed that From 1 July 2019, WHM visa holders who carry out 6 months of specified work in regional areas while on their second Working Holiday (subclass 417) visa or Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa may be eligible to apply for a third visa. Eligible types of work and regional areas will correspond with the requirements for the second visa. 

The 6 months work must all be carried out on or after 1 July 2019, so a successful application cannot be lodged before January 2020. 

Doctors on Demand (AGA telehealth)

For OSHC and selected OVHC members, Allianz Global Assistance offers customers the ability to access qualified doctors via phone or video call. This service is offered through the app 'Doctors on Demand'. 

Customers can use the ‘Doctors on Demand’ app to:

Federal Government confirmed that Australia’s election will be held on 18 May 2019.

As a result, several migration bills have lapsed as a result. 

The following bills are impacted: