Major Updates from the 2024 Federal Budget
Major Updates
The Australian government has announced the planning level for the 2024-25 permanent Migration Program, and it is set at 185,000 places. This does represent a slight reduction of 5,000 places compared to the previous program. The government aims to strike a balance between the Skill and Family streams by allocating these places in an approximate 70:30 split.
The Government has committed $18.3 million over the next four years, starting from 2024–25, to implement significant reforms in Australia's migration system. These efforts aim not only to boost economic prosperity but also to restore the integrity of the system.
$15.0 million over three years from 2024–25 dedicated to information and education initiatives. These activities are designed to provide migrant workers with accurate and relevant information regarding workplace safeguards, protections, and compliance measures related to migration laws.
$1.9 million was allocated for 2024–25 to conduct a data-matching pilot between the Department of Home Affairs and the Australian Taxation Office. This initiative aims to analyze income and employment data to address the exploitation of migrant workers and prevent abuse of Australia’s labor market and migration system.
In late 2024, a new National Innovation visa will be introduced to replace the existing Global Talent visa (subclass 858). This initiative is specifically designed to attract exceptionally talented migrants who are poised to contribute significantly to the growth of sectors deemed vital to the nation's development.
Working Holiday Visa Lottery
In a notable development, Australia is set to utilize a lottery system for the allocation of backpacker visas to citizens of specific countries, marking only the second instance of this approach being employed. This shift comes as the federal government intensifies its efforts to tighten regulations on temporary migration.
From July 2024, aspiring working holidaymakers from China, India, and Vietnam will be required to pay a nominal fee of $25 to participate in a randomized ballot, vying for a limited number of available visas.
482 visa employment requirement changes
In the most recent update from the Australian Government's 2024-25 budget papers, there is exciting news for aspiring applicants of the 482 visa. The government has taken valuable steps to enhance the visa application process and make Australia an even more appealing destination for skilled workers.
One of the measures implemented is a reduction in the required work experience for 482 visa applicants. This adjustment is a significant advancement that aims to streamline the process and remove potential barriers for newer professionals across various industries. It opens up new opportunities for skilled individuals who may not have had extensive work experience but possess the talent and capabilities to contribute to Australia's thriving sectors.
If you are having a hard time planning your pathwa y to Australia, the best thing to do is ask for assistance from certified migration experts. At Think Visa, we specialize in processing visas in these complex situations. By ensuring that all the essential documents, our team of skilled migration consultants can help you get through the process. Start your migration process with people you could trust.
