Australian Immigration Daily News

The Department of Home Affairs has introduced Ministerial Direction No. 111 (MD111), which came into effect on 19 December 2024, replacing Ministerial Direction No. 107 (MD107). This updated direction aims to enhance fairness, sustainability, and integrity within Australia’s international education sector while streamlining visa processing to ensure equity and efficiency.

Key Highlights:

1. Revocation of MD107: MD107, which was found to disproportionately impact certain education providers, has been revoked. MD111 replaces it with a more balanced framework.

2. Scope of MD111:

   • Applies to all offshore Subclass 500 (Student) visa applications, both pending and newly submitted.
   • Establishes a priority processing framework to ensure equitable and timely processing of applications.

3. Processing Priorities:

   • Priority 1 – High:
     • Given to education providers in higher education and vocational education sectors operating below 80% of their indicative allocation for new overseas student commencements (as outlined in PRISMS).
     • Includes higher degree by research students, scholarship recipients, students enrolled in TAFE institutions, and students from the Pacific and Timor-Leste.
   • Priority 2 – Standard:
     • Applies to providers exceeding the 80% threshold and other student visa applicants.

4. Purpose and Objectives:

   • MD111 seeks to ensure fairer distribution of new student visa applicants among education providers.
   • Supports Australia’s broader international education objectives by prioritising providers underrepresented in their allocated numbers.

5. Implementation and Sector Engagement:

   • The Department of Home Affairs and the Department of Education will work collaboratively with the international education sector through webinars, discussions with peak bodies, and digital outreach.
   • Education providers are encouraged to monitor their indicative allocations for new student commencements to ensure compliance with MD111 guidelines.

Implications for Applicants:

• Lodging a complete and accurate visa application remains critical to avoiding processing delays.
• Applicants and education providers should consult the Department of Education and Employment’s resources for further clarification on indicative allocations.

Ministerial Direction No. 111 reinforces Australia’s commitment to a fair, transparent, and efficient international student visa processing system, supporting the growth and integrity of the nation’s international education sector.

Source: MD111.pdf