Migration Alliance would like to bring your attention to this transcript from the public hearing in Sydney on 16 July 2018.
Migration Agents should take note of the comments made at the bottom of page 10 and page 11 from the MIA regarding CPD pricing.
The Committee, as you can see from the transcript, has asked for further information from the MIA regarding CPD and pricing.
It is factually incorrect that the Office of the MARA have not had a chance to audit any CPD. Audits are occurring at this very moment and have been for over a month now.
The application process to become approved as a CPD provider is difficult.
Yesterday, Migration Alliance sent Registered Migration Agents an email which contains a survey regarding CPD pricing and quality. We will be sending the results of the survey to the Committee. This survey will be a true and accurate representation of what it is migration agents want and think, whether they are a MIA member or not. We want the committee to receive accurate information and feedback from the RMA profession on this subject. They should be receiving reports which are a true reflection of the needs and wishes of migration agents.
Please complete the survey which is in your email inbox, after reading what Ms Markey from the MIA has said on page 10 and 11 of this document below:
In conducting its inquiry, the Committee will have particular regard to:
- Examining the registration and regulation of migration agents in Australia including: education, English proficiency, payment, fee-scheduling as well as the suitability and stringency of the accreditation process and evidence of deficiencies.
- The nature and prevalence of fraud, professional misconduct and other breaches by registered migration agents, the current review mechanisms for migration agents and the adequacy of penalties.
- Deficiencies and barriers to relevant authorities' investigation of fraudulent behaviour by registered migration agents in visa applications, including the adequacy of information and evidence sharing between such authorities.
- Evidence of the volumes and patterns of unregistered migration agents and education agents providing unlawful immigration services in Australia.
- Reviewing the appropriateness of migration agents providing other services to clients.