Big news for anyone planning to move to Australia! In 2024, Australian immigration policies received some major updates, bringing changes that could significantly impact your plans. These updates are part of Australia’s efforts to address the growing demand for skilled workers, make migration processes fairer, and provide better opportunities for people eager to contribute to the country’s economy and multicultural community. Whether you’re hoping to find a job in a high-demand field, pursue a world-class education, or lay down roots with permanent residency, these updates could bring exciting new opportunities for you.
Here’s a simple breakdown of everything you need to know.
Please Note: This article serves as a general guide to help you understand the topic, with information accurate as of the publication date. We recommend consulting a registered migration agent or check The Department of Home Affairs for precise, up-to-date guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.
Changes to Work Visas
If you’re hoping to work in Australia, here’s what you need to know about the updated work visa rules:
1. Higher Minimum Salary for Skilled Workers
The minimum salary for skilled migration (Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold) has increased from AUD 70,000 to AUD 73,150. This change is meant to ensure that skilled workers are paid fairly and reflect Australia’s high living standards. Employers sponsoring skilled migrants must meet this threshold, providing better financial security for workers while ensuring salaries align with the local job market.
2. The TSS Visa Is Gone
The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa has been replaced by the Skills in Demand visa. This new visa focuses on high-demand jobs and has been designed to better meet Australia’s labour market needs. It’s simpler and more targeted, making it easier for applicants to find opportunities that match their skills.
3. New Pathways for Skilled Workers
The Skills in Demand visa introduces three clear pathways to cater to varying skill levels and job types:
- Specialist Skills: Tailored for professionals with advanced expertise in niche fields like IT, engineering, or medicine.
- Core Skills: Targets jobs that are fundamental to major industries, such as healthcare, construction, and education.
- Labour Agreement Skills: This visa is for skilled workers nominated by employers who have a labour agreement developed between the Australian Government (represented by the Department) and employers.
These pathways make it easier for applicants to identify where they fit and streamline the application process.
4. New Occupation List
Australia has introduced a new Core Skills Occupation List, which outlines the professions that are currently in high demand. This list is aimed at addressing labour shortages in critical areas. If your job is on the list, your visa application will likely be processed faster, making it easier for you to secure employment in Australia. The list includes a wide range of professions, from healthcare and engineering to trades and technology. This focused approach ensures that the migration system prioritises workers who can fill the country’s most urgent skill gaps.
5. Easier Permanent Residency
From 7 December 2024, it will be easier for skilled workers to get permanent residency in Australia. The changes to the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa make it simpler for workers in high-demand jobs to stay in Australia long-term. These updates include new rules about work experience, and a clearer list of in-demand jobs. Skilled workers now have a smoother path to permanent residency, giving them more job security and a stable future in Australia.
6. Less Work Experience Needed for 482 Visa
The work experience requirement for the subclass 482 visa has been reduced.
Applicants now need to show only one year of relevant work experience in their nominated occupation or a related field, down from the previous requirement of two years. This makes it easier for skilled workers to start their careers in Australia sooner, providing quicker access to employment opportunities.
7. Pacific Engagement Visa
This new Pacific Engagement Visa strengthens Australia’s ties with Pacific nations by offering more migration opportunities for workers from these regions. It’s a step towards building stronger regional relationships while meeting labour demands.
8. More Time to Change Jobs
If you lose your job while on a work visa, the new rules give you up to 180 days to find a new sponsor, switch visas, or plan your next steps. This extended period offers more flexibility and reduces stress during job transitions.
Want to study in Australia instead? Here’s what’s new for student visas.
Changes to Student Visas
Australia is a top choice for international students, and these new changes to the student visa (subclass 500) aim to keep it that way while improving the system:
1. The new Genuine Student Requirements (GSR)
To get a student visa, you’ll now need to meet the new Genuine Student Requirements (GSR). This means showing clear evidence that you intend to study in Australia and return to your home country after your education. The change from the previous Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement aims to ensure that student visas are granted to those who genuinely want to pursue their studies, rather than individuals seeking to use the visa for other purposes.
2. Changes to Financial Requirements for Student Visas
One of the significant changes for student visas is the new financial requirement. Applicants must now demonstrate they can afford not only tuition but also living expenses and other costs while studying in Australia. For a single student, this means proving you have at least AUD 29,710 to cover living costs. If you’re bringing family members, the required amount increases to cover their expenses too. This change ensures that students have the financial stability to focus on their education without facing financial stress.
3. Changes to the Temporary Graduate Visa
The Australian Government has updated the English language requirements for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) to ensure that graduates entering the workforce are well-prepared to contribute effectively to Australia’s economy.
Previous Requirements:
- Overall Score: Minimum IELTS score of 6.0 (or equivalent).
- Component Scores: No individual band score below 5.0.
New Requirements:
- Overall Score: Minimum IELTS score of 6.5 (or equivalent).
- Component Scores: Each band (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) must have a minimum score of 5.5.
These changes apply to all subclass 485 visa applications lodged on or after 23 March 2024.
The increased English language proficiency standards aim to support graduates in engaging more effectively with the Australian community and workplace, enhancing their employment prospects and integration into society.
4. New Restrictions on Visa Hopping
In the past, students had the option to switch from a tourist visa to a student visa while staying in Australia. This allowed many people to extend their stay in the country, sometimes without fully committing to their studies. However, the Australian government has now introduced stricter rules to prevent this practice.
Now, students are no longer able to switch from a tourist visa to a student visa while staying in Australia. It ensures that visas are granted to those who are genuinely interested in studying, rather than those simply looking for an extended stay in the country.
5. Higher Application Fees
Applying for a student visa now costs AUD 1,600, up from AUD 710. While this increase may seem significant, it reflects the growing costs of processing applications and maintaining the visa system.
Now, let’s look at other important changes in Australian immigration policies.
Other Significant Changes
1. New Migration Strategy
In late 2023, the Australian government introduced a Migration Strategy. It focuses on attracting skilled workers, closing job gaps, and making the system better for everyone. Over 25 new policies are part of this plan.
2. Faster Visa Processing
Visa applications are being processed faster, cutting down wait times. This makes the whole process less stressful for applicants.
3. Regional Migration Benefits
Special programmes encourage skilled workers to move to regional areas. These include extra support and benefits to help new migrants settle outside big cities.
With all these updates, here’s what you need to keep in mind.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 updates to Australian immigration are big, but they also bring great news for anyone wanting to work, study, or settle in Australia. These changes are meant to make the whole immigration process easier and more straightforward. Whether you’re looking to start a job, continue your studies, or make Australia your new home, these updates could help make that happen.
Overall, these changes show that Australia is focused on attracting skilled workers, keeping its education system top-notch, and making the immigration process fairer and simpler for everyone.
Need Help with Australian Immigration?
If you’re feeling unsure about the new rules or don’t know where to start, Knowbal can help! Our experts are here to guide you through the changes and help you make the best choices for your future in Australia.
Get in touch with Knowbal today and start your journey to Australia!
