Australian Immigration Daily News

Summary of the Migration Amendment (Graduate Visas) Regulations 2024

The Migration Amendment (Graduate Visas) Regulations 2024 introduces significant changes to the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) and closes the Skilled-Recognised Graduate visa (subclass 476). Key changes include:

1. Simplification of Temporary Graduate Visa:

   • Graduate Work Stream renamed: Now called the Post-Vocational Education Work Stream.
   • Eligibility Changes: Requires applicants to hold an associate degree, diploma, or trade qualification related to their nominated occupation.
   • Age Limit Reduced: Maximum eligible age reduced from 50 to 35 years (except for certain passport holders and higher degree graduates).

2. Post-Higher Education Work Stream:

   • New Naming: The Post-Study Work Stream is renamed the Post-Higher Education Work Stream.
   • Two-Year Extension Ceased: The previous two-year extension for certain qualifications will no longer be available from 1 July 2024.
   • Transition Pathways: Graduates can transition from Post-Study Work to Post-Higher Education Work Stream.

3. Closure of the Replacement Stream:

   • Stream Closed: The Replacement Stream is closed to new applications from 1 July 2024.

4. Transitional Pathways:

   • Regional Pathways: Transitional pathways are available for existing Temporary Graduate visa holders to apply for subsequent visas based on regional study and work.

5. Closure of Skilled-Recognised Graduate Visa:

   • Subclass 476 Closed: This visa is closed to all applicants from 1 July 2024.

6. Consultation and Compatibility:

   • Extensive consultation was conducted with relevant stakeholders, including government agencies and education sector representatives.
   • The regulations are compatible with human rights obligations, aiming to reduce 'permanently temporary' migrants and improve labour market outcomes.

The amendments aim to streamline visa processes, support early career professionals, and ensure better alignment with Australia’s migration policy priorities. The changes will come into effect on 1 July 2024.

Source: Migration-Amendment-Graduate-Visas-Regs----the-regs.pdf

and Migration-Amendment-Graduate-Visas-Regulations-explanatory statement.pdf