Australian Immigration Daily News

The Migration Agent Activity Report for January to June 2024 provides a comprehensive overview of the activities of registered migration agents (RMAs) in Australia, including registration data, complaint handling, and sanctions.

Key Points:

1. OMARA’s Role: The Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA) regulates migration agents under the Migration Act 1958 and the Migration Agents Regulations 1998. OMARA's responsibilities include registration, monitoring conduct, investigating complaints, and taking disciplinary actions.

2. Operational Improvements: OMARA has enhanced its regulatory processes, including a risk-based framework for handling complaints, the establishment of a Risk Register, and developing a strategic communications plan. Future improvements include background checks and increased penalties for RMA misconduct.

3. RMA Statistics (As of June 2024):

   • Total RMAs: 5,081, with 99% operating commercially.

   • Geographical distribution: Victoria (33%), New South Wales (31%), and Queensland (14%) have the largest concentrations of RMAs.

   • 66% of RMAs have never received a complaint.

   • The average age of RMAs is 48, with a male majority (53%).

4. Visa Applications: RMAs were involved in a significant percentage of visa applications:

   • 62% of Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visas,

   • 53% of Employer Sponsored visas,

   • 76% of Business Skills visas.

5. Complaint Outcomes: Between January and June 2024, 123 complaints were processed:

   • 12 resulted in sanctions (e.g., suspension, barring),

   • 17 involved issues that were addressed directly with agents,

   • 78 complaints were dismissed.

6. Sanctions: OMARA imposed 15 sanctions, including barring, cancellation, suspension, and cautioning RMAs for breaches of the Code of Conduct. Examples of breaches include mishandling visa applications, submitting false information, and conflicts of interest.

7. Registration Withdrawals and Refusals: A small number of RMAs withdrew their registration or had it refused due to issues like language proficiency, conflicts of interest, or failing to meet fit and proper person requirements.

This report reflects OMARA’s ongoing efforts to regulate the migration advice industry, ensuring compliance with professional standards and addressing misconduct effectively.

Source: maar_jan_june_2024.pdf