Australian Immigration Daily News

The Migration Amendment (Status of Forces Agreement - United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland) Regulations 2025 introduce significant changes for members of the UK armed forces and their civilian component. These amendments, which align with the Australia-UK Defence and Security Cooperation Agreement, ensure that UK personnel and their dependents can enter Australia without the need to apply for a visa.

Under the new regulations, UK armed forces members and their civilian staff will be granted a Special Purpose Visa (SPV), streamlining their entry for cooperative defence activities. This reflects Australia’s commitment to the Australia-UK Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA), signed in March 2024.

The amendment will come into effect once the agreement is formally implemented, marking a milestone in strengthening defence relations between Australia and the United Kingdom.

The Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA) has made a significant decision on 24 March 2025, cancelling the registration of Migration Agent Nilli Singh Bhandari. This action follows a thorough investigation into multiple complaints and a serious breach of professional conduct. Key findings include:

• Failure to deliver services: Ms. Bhandari was engaged by 33 clients for a range of employer-sponsored visa applications, with fees paid between $3,100 to $30,400, yet no services were provided, and refunds were not issued.

• Misuse of MARNs: It was discovered that Ms. Bhandari used the Migration Agent Registration Numbers (MARNs) of two other registered agents without their consent.

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The Workplace Rights Guide provides essential information on the rights and protections that workers, including visa holders, have under Australian workplace laws. It outlines that all workers in Australia, regardless of their citizenship status, are entitled to basic workplace protections.

Key points include:

• Workplace Rights for Visa Holders: Visa holders are entitled to the same workplace rights and protections as Australian citizens. This includes the right to fair pay, protection from unfair dismissal, protection from discrimination, and more.

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Starting from 1 July 2025, skilled visa income thresholds will rise by 4.6%, in line with changes to the Average Weekly Ordinary Time Earnings (AWOTE). This adjustment ensures that skilled migration wages align with Australian workers' wages, preventing the potential undercutting of local salaries.

Key changes include:

• Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT): An increase from AUD 73,150 to AUD 76,515, affecting the Skills in Demand (subclass 482) and Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186).

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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.

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