Government welcomes accelerated citizenship for families of lateral recruits

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Created on Friday, 14 September 2012 16:43

Written by Editorial staff

The federal government's amendments to the Australian Citizenship Act 2007, benefiting Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel,have been welcomed by the minister for immigration and citizenship.

Changes now allow for fast-tracked citizenship application for particular family members of overseas lateral personnel.

Lateral recruitment simply means that there are roles within the ADF that can not be filled by Australians for whatever reason. Soldiers from other defence forces, such as the UK or New Zealand, can apply to work for the Australian armed forces. Recruiting those that already have the specialised skills needed ultimately saves time and money.

To be eligible for this accelerated scheme, the recruit must have a particular visa issued after July 1, 2007 and have served for 90 days or more with the full time or reserves in the Army, Navy or Air Force. Previously the families of lateral recruits had to wait for up to four years for permanent residency whilst the servicing member was able to apply after completing a minimum 90 days' service.

If you have any questions about your family's eligibility for accelerated citizenship, talk to an experienced immigration lawyer.

Minister for defence science and personnel Warren Snowden says this scheme is a way to attract the best of the best in overseas defence soldiers whilst immigration minister Chris Bowen says this is a way to reward service to our country.

"The government recognises that families who support ADF members serving Australia should be able to build a close and continuing relationship with Australia at the same time as their serving family members.

"We are providing families with earlier eligibility for citizenship to assist them with settling in Australia, including providing access to employment opportunities and educational assistance," he said.

This move has been met with approval from the opposition, who say were the driving force behind this change. The oppositions say that Chris Bowen was initially opposed to these changes but has since had a change of heart. Shadow minister for defence science, technology and personnel Stuart Robert introduced a private members bill into parliament. 

In a rare show of bipartisan cooperation, this bill was passed the upper house with the help of the Coalition and Greens.

Families will be able to take advantage of this scheme after January 1, 2013.