July 1 marks start of skilled migration changes

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Created on Monday, 02 July 2012 14:21

Written by Editorial staff

As the new financial year gets into full swing, migration agents are also reminded of latest changes to the skilled migration program.

July 1 marked the introduction of a number of reforms, including an amendment to the skilled migration pass mark.

Affecting SkillSelect visa subclasses 189, 190 and 489, the points requirement will be lowered from 65 to 60, which the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) hopes will widen the talent pool.

A spokesperson confirmed: "These reforms have ensured the skilled migration program is a responsive and demand driven program.

"Delivery of a balanced migration program requires careful management."

This change is complemented by the introduction of the new SkillSelect program, which should make it easier for employers to connect with skilled migrants hoping to relocate to Australia.

The initiative works by Expression of Interest - individuals who believe they have the skills to fill available positions in Australia fill in their details online and hope to be contacted.

They will either be invited by the government to lodge a visa application, or be nominated for skilled visas by Australian employers or a state or territory government.

However, anyone hoping to make a new independent unsponsored or family sponsored skilled migration application needs to be aware of amendments to the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).

The document is reviewed on a yearly basis and as of July 1, four occupations no longer feature on it - bricklayer, wall and floor tiler, chemist and audiologist.

It will therefore not be possible for visa applications to be lodged for these positions.

Replacing these occupations on the SOL are optometrist, computer network and systems engineer, metallurgist and mining production manager.

Student visa applicants should also make note of changes to the DIAC's requirements, as the financial thresholds were amended on July 1.

Students are required to show that they have adequate funds to sustain themselves while in Australia and the minimum thresholds are often amended to reflect the rising cost of living.

Applicants therefore need to demonstrate that they have the necessary course fees to cover their studies, enough for a return air fare to Australia, as well as $18,610 for living expenses.

Dependents also need to be adequately provided for - the threshold states that the applicant's partner must have access to $6,514 per year and $3,720 for their first child.

The DIAC will use a range of criteria to assess specific cases, such as a person's financial and immigration history.