Welcome to our August 2024 update on Australian immigration. In this blog, we’ll be discussing the recent changes in the immigration landscape, including a new Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, a new visa for individuals facing exploitation in their workplace, updates on state nominations for the 190 and 491 visas, 482 visa changes and more.
Change in Minister for Immigration and Home Affairs
In a recent reshuffle of the Federal Cabinet, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese appointed Tony Burke as the new Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration.
This change consolidates responsibilities previously held by Claire O’Neill and Andrew Giles, potentially leading to streamlined decision-making in immigration matters. With this new leadership, questions arise about how the proposed Migration Strategy reforms, including the Skills in Demand Visa and the National Innovation Visa, will be implemented.
We’ll have to stay tuned to see how these key reforms progress.
Introduction of the Workplace Justice Visa
A significant development in Australian immigration is the introduction of the Workplace Justice Visa (subclass 408). This visa aims to protect migrant workers who have experienced exploitation in their workplaces. The visa allows these individuals to remain in Australia for 6 to 12 months while their claims of exploitation are investigated.
There is no application fee for the Workplace Justice Visa.
This visa is available to anyone holding a temporary visa with work rights who has experienced workplace exploitation in Australia.
To apply, you must obtain certification of your claim from a participating government agency or an accredited third party, such as the Fair Work Ombudsman.
Here you can read more about the Workplace Justice Visa.
States Open for 190 and 491 Visa Expressions of Interest (EOI)
The states and territories, including the ACT, Northern Territory, Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria and Tasmania have already opened their 2024-2025 state nomination programs for the 190 and 491 visas. Other states are expected to open soon.
This year, there has been a substantial increase in visa allocations.
The 190 visa saw an increase from 10,300 to 16,500 places, a 60% rise. Similarly, the 491 visa numbers have grown by 53%, from 6,400 to 9,760 places.
This is great news for prospective migrants looking to secure a nomination.
If you need to do your EOI or Registration of Interest (ROI), please contact us. We will be happy to assist you.
If you are unable to secure a state nomination, employer-sponsored visas such as the 482, 494, or 186 visas may be viable alternatives.
Visa Appeals and the New Administrative Review Tribunal (ART)
Starting 14 October 2024, the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) will replace the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) as part of the Albanese Government’s reforms.
If you have an ongoing appeal with the AAT, there is no need to worry; all existing matters will automatically transition to the ART, and re-applications is not required.
Australia’s Largest University: Adelaide University
With the merger of the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia, Adelaide University has become the largest university in Australia.
Adelaide University will offer around 200 coursework programs aimed at attracting international students, with admissions starting ahead of the official opening in 2026.
This development is expected to significantly boost Australia’s education sector.
If you’re considering studying in Australia, feel free to contact us.
Changes to the 482 Visa
From 23 November 2024, the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) 482 visa will require only one year of full-time work experience, down from the current requirement of two years.
This change is expected to benefit many visa applicants, particularly those already in Australia on graduate visas.
New Work Conditions for 482 and 494 Visas
As of 1 July 2024, new work conditions apply to the 482, 494, and 457 visas. Employees will now have up to 180 days to find a new employer if they cease employment. During this period, they can work for any employer in any job.
This change is expected to provide more flexibility and stability for visa holders as they search for new employment opportunities.
Here you can ready more about other changes happening on the 482 employer-sponsored visa.
Do you need help to apply for an Australian Visa?
If you need assistance with applying for an Australian visa, please contact us.
You can book an appointment online or call us at (+61) 8 8351 9956.
Our team of experienced Immigration Lawyers and Migration Agents look forward to assisting you with your visa application.
Based in Adelaide, South Australia, we provide Australian immigration advice to people and businesses from all over the world.
