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Australian Immigration News – November 2024

In this blog, we’ll cover the latest updates in Australia’s migration policies, including key information on the new Skills in Demand Visa, the Core Skills Occupation List, the National Innovation Visa and important health and family violence provisions.

We’ll also discuss the fast-tracking of registration for doctors, fee increases by VETASSESS, the November 189 invitation round, and the Occupation Shortage List released by Jobs and Skills Australia.

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Skills in Demand Visa Updates

The Skills in Demand Visa was announced as a major reform, but now it turns out the Skills in Demand Visa is essentially just the same as the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) 482 Visa.

The Skills in Demand Visa (SID Visa) will retain the same subclass as the 482 Visa, meaning it will still be the Skills in Demand Visa subclass 482.

It will be a temporary skilled worker visa valid for up to 4 years with a clear pathway to permanent residence.

The Skills in Demand Visa will have three streams: Specialist Skills, Core Skills, and Labour Agreements.

  • Specialist Skills Stream: For highly skilled migrants earning at least $135,000 in any occupation except trades workers, machinery operators, drivers, and laborers.
  • Core Skills Stream: For skilled employees, with a new Core Skills Occupation List and a Core Skills Income Threshold. We are still waiting for the government to release the Core Skills Occupation List. Any significant change will be if your occupation is not on the new Core Skills list—then you may miss out.

And where is the Essential Skills Pathway? It seems it will be the Labour Agreement stream.

For the new Skills in Demand Visa, the work experience requirement will be reduced to one year, as the department had previously announced for the 482 visa from November 23, 2024.

As the 482 TSS Visa will be replaced by the 482 SID Visa, the existing short-term and medium-term streams of the TSS Visa will close to new applications.

National Innovation Visa

The National Innovation Visa will replace the Global Talent Visa but remain a Subclass 858 visa.

This visa will provide opportunities for exceptional talent with diverse backgrounds, including:

  • Global researchers and thought leaders (e.g., published in leading journals, high levels of publications and citations, recipients of top-field awards)
  • Entrepreneurs, both established and emerging, with lessons from successful State and Territory-led initiatives
  • Innovative investors with a focus on the quality of investment, not just simple thresholds
  • Athletes and creatives, particularly those representing Australia internationally

Applications will be by invitation only, and the Expression of Interest (EOI) process will closely reflect that of other invitation-only visas.

New Family Violence Provisions

A big change started on October 15, 2024. The Migration Amendment Family Violence Provisions for Skilled Visa Applications allow secondary applicants in seven permanent Skilled visa subclasses to access family violence provisions. These subclasses include the 186 visa, 187 visa, 189 visa, 190 visa, 191 visa, Global Talent, and 887 visa.

This means that secondary applicants can be granted visas even if their relationship with the primary applicant has ended, provided they or a dependent child have experienced family violence from the primary applicant.

Important Changes to Australia’s Migration Health System

Children born and living in Australia are now exempt from health-related criteria that could have previously made them ineligible for a visa.

What has changed?

The Public Interest Criteria 4005 and 4007 have been updated to exempt child visa applicants born and residing in Australia from specific health-related requirements that may have previously disqualified them for a visa due to potential healthcare or community service costs to Australia.

This change affects visa applications submitted before or after October 16, 2024, including those under merits review.

189 Invitation Round – November 2024

Another 189 invitation round took place in the first week of November 2024. This is the third round in 2024. The first 189 Invitation Round was in June, the second 189 Invitation Round in September, and now the third 189 Invitation Round in November.

A range of occupations were invited, mainly with 70 to 85 points for teachers, health, and construction occupations, and 90 to 100 points for other occupations.

Some occupations invited included:

  • Engineers with a minimum of 75 points
  • Architects with a minimum of 70 points
  • Social workers with 75 points
  • Internal and external auditors with 90 points
  • Accountants with a minimum of 95 points

As soon as the Department of Home Affairs releases the full list of invitations, we will make a blog and post more details about it.

Australian Immigration

VETASSESS Fee Increase and Pause in Priority Processing

Starting November 20, VETASSESS will increase the fees for professional and general occupations for a full skills assessment from $1033 to $1070. The Graduate Visa assessment fee will increase from $392 to $406.

VETASSESS will also pause accepting applications for its Priority Processing on December 1, 2024.

This pause will give VETASSESS time to process and complete applications before the Christmas shutdown on December 20, 2024. The VETASSESS head office will reopen on January 6, 2025.

190 and 491 Updates

New South Wales is now accepting applications for the 491 Visa Pathway 1 and Pathway 3.

  • Pathway 1: For people working in regional NSW for the past six months with a single employer.
  • Pathway 3: For graduates from regional NSW.

Given the limited allocation, we recommend submitting your Expression of Interest (EOI) as soon as possible.

South Australia has been sending notifications to people that are not being invited for 190 visa or 491 visa state nominations.

This is often happening if your Visa is expiring soon. So South Australia is giving people the heads up of not being invited so they can consider other things are options before their Visa expires.

The applicants are receiving the following email: "NOT INVITED - Thank you for your Registration of Interest for South Australian State Nomination. Regrettably, your application has not been chosen for invitation at this time". 

They have been lots of hospitality occupations such as chef receiving not invited.

The other states are issuing their regular invitations based on the criteria specific to each state.

If you have received the "NOT INVITED" email from South Australia, or if you have not received an invitation from other states or territories, we recommend considering other visa options, such as employer-sponsored visas like the 186 visa, 482 visa, or 494 visa, or partner visas if you have a genuine relationship with an Australian.

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Occupation Shortage List – Jobs and Skills Australia

Jobs and Skills Australia has released the Occupation Shortage List to help you check if your occupation is in shortage in each state or territory.

For example, the occupation of chef is on the shortage list in all states and territories, while cooks are only on the shortage list in some, such as New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia, and Northern Territory, but not in Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, or ACT.

This list is a data tool to check occupation shortages and is not directly related to immigration or your ability to apply for a 189 visa, 190 visa, 491 visa, or any employer-sponsored visas.

However, it could influence which occupations will or will not be included on the Core Skills List, which is expected to be released at the end of the year when the government launches the new Skills in Demand Visa.

Fast Tracking for Trades in the Building Sector

Business Council of Australia Calls for Fast-Tracking of Trades in the Building Sector The Business Council of Australia is advocating for new measures aimed at local and state governments to expedite home approvals and increase supply.

This push highlights the growing emphasis on the building trades, which are currently receiving priority in the 189 visa rounds. 

In the latest invitation rounds, many trades in the building sector were invited with a minimum score of 65 points, indicating a strong focus on these professions.

Fast Track for Doctors’ Registration

Fast track for doctors’ registration Doctors from the UK, Ireland, and New Zealand now have their ability to practice in Australia fast-tracked. 

The new changes will allow international medical specialists to apply directly to the Medical Board of Australia and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) for registration, rather than going through an individual assessment by a specialist college like the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). 

This significant change will eliminate unnecessary regulatory barriers and enable international specialists from similar healthcare systems to work in Australia sooner.

IELTS Updates

Registered Migration Agents now have access to the IELTS Results service that enables them to verify applicants' IELTS test scores to ensure the results are authentic and reliable before submitting them to the Department of Home Affairs.

US Election and Canada Immigration Cuts

How will the US Election win affect Australian immigration?

I’ll discuss four possible effects of the US election result on Australian migration:

  1. Themes could be adopted from the US election following Trump’s victory, possibly leading to more negative sentiments about migration.
  1. Migration policy changes could occur, leading to lower migration targets.
  1. The Australian economy and migration could be affected by US policies, especially regarding tariffs on China, Australia's largest trading partner.
  1. Some people in the US may look to move to Australia, as we’ve already received inquiries.

Canada’s Immigration Cuts

Canada has announced a 21% reduction in immigration for 2025 to pause population growth.

Could something similar happen in Australia?

Based on the US election, the short answer is yes, there will likely be cuts.

These were the main updates that took place in Australian immigration in November 2024. More updates are expected later this year, such as the opening of the new Skills in Demand Visa and the new National Innovation Visa.

If you need any assistance applying for an Australian visa, please contact us.

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Souces: 

https://www.vetassess.com.au/news/change-in-assessment-fees-for-professional-and-general-occupations

https://www.vetassess.com.au/news/summer-office-hours-and-pause-in-priority-processing

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/domestic-family-violence-and-your-visa/family-violence-provisions

https://www.legislation.gov.au/F2024L01288/asmade/text

https://www.migration.sa.gov.au/

https://www.jobsandskills.gov.au/data/occupation-shortages-analysis/occupation-shortage-list

 

 

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7 Visas to Work in Australia

There are many visas that allow you to live and work in Australia temporary or permanent. In this blog, we will discuss 7 common visas that enable you to work in Australia. While there are other visas that also permit work, we will focus on these seven.

Visa Number 1: Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 or 462)

The Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417) or the Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462) allows young people (typically aged 18 to 30, or 35 years old for some countries) from eligible countries to travel and work in Australia for up to 12 months, with the option to extend for another year under certain conditions. 

With this visa, you can do any kind of work, anywhere in Australia. Usually, you can only work for the same employer for 6 months, although some exemptions apply.

The Working Holiday Visa is ideal for those looking to fund their travels while gaining work experience. Working Holiday holders could be eligible to apply for a second or third Working Holiday visa and stay for up to 3 years in Australia.

Visa Number 2: Employer-Sponsored Visa (482, 494, or the new Skills in Demand Visa)

Employer-sponsored visas allow employers to sponsor international skilled workers to fill positions that cannot be filled by local talent. The visa can be granted for up to 5 years, depending on the occupation and the specific visa that the applicant is applying for.

To apply for one of the employer-sponsored visas, such as 482 visa, 494 visa, or Skills in Demand Visa, you must have a business to sponsor you and meet some other requirements.

The employer-sponsored visa can potentially lead to permanent residency.

Take a look at our blog for tips on finding an employer to sponsor you in Australia.

Visa Number 3: Training Visa (Subclass 407)

This visa is designed for individuals who want to participate in workplace-based training to improve their skills for their current occupation or field of study.
This visa can be granted for up to 2 years, allowing you to work and live in Australia.

The Training Visa requires sponsorship by an Australian organization and doesn’t lead to permanent residency; it is just a temporary work visa.

Visa Number 4: Student Visa (Subclass 500)

While primarily intended for studying in Australia, the Student Visa allows holders to work part-time while studying. Students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the academic term and unlimited hours during breaks.

This visa is valid for the duration of the course.

Visa Number 5: Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)

The 186 visa is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are nominated by their employer. 

It has three streams: the Temporary Residence Transition stream, Direct Entry stream, and Labour Agreement stream, each catering to different situations and requirements.

Check out our blog on how to find an employer to sponsor you in Australia.

Visa Number 6: Temporary Activity Visa (Subclass 408)

The Temporary Activity Visa (Subclass 408) allows individuals to come to Australia to participate in specific activities, such as cultural or social events, sports, or special projects. 

It can also include work rights in certain situations, depending on the activity.

Visa Number 7: Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

The Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is for international students who have recently graduated from an Australian institution. It allows them to work in Australia full-time to gain practical experience in their field of study. 

You can apply for the Graduate Visa if you are 35 years old or under. Exceptions apply. 

Work visas Australia

What Australian work visa is for you?

If you want to know whether you can apply for one of these visas or any other visa that allows you to work in Australia, please book an appointment with us. We will discuss your situation to determine which visas you may be eligible to apply for.

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189 Visa Invitation Round 2024

The Department of Home Affairs has released the list of professions from the latest 189 Skilled Independent Visa invitation round that took place on June 13th, 2024. This round saw a total of 5,292 invitations issued across more than 130 different occupations, with a significant focus on construction, healthcare, and engineering fields.

Interestingly, there were no invitations for the 491 Family Sponsored visas this round.

What is the 189 Skilled Independent Visa?

The 189 Visa is a points-tested permanent visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, a state or territory, or a family member. This visa allows you to live and work anywhere in Australia as a permanent resident. Key benefits include:

  • Permanent residency status
  • No need for state or family sponsorship
  • Freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia

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Building Trades Occupations

With the ongoing housing shortage and the urgent need to build more housing, building trades have become the most sought-after professions in Australian migration.

Occupations such as carpenter, cabinetmaker, bricklayer, plumber, joiner, electrician, drainer, and glazier received invitations with 65 points or more.

Construction workers

Engineering Occupations

Civil engineer, mining engineer, telecommunication engineer, industrial engineer, transport engineer, and electrical engineer were invited, some requiring at least 85 points.

Healthcare Professionals

Registered nurses were invited with a minimum of 85 points.

Other Notable Occupations and Minimum Points

  • Chef: 95 points
  • Accountant: 100 points
  • Architect: 85 points
  • Child Care Centre Manager: 85 points
  • ICT Occupations: 100 points
  • Internal and External Auditors: 95 points
  • Motor Mechanic: 95 points
  • Social Worker: 85 points

Surprising Invitations

These occupations are surprising because they are not often considered the most “in-demand” skills.

  • Dancer or choreographer
  • Solicitor
  • Valuer

189 Occupations and Minimum Points

In general, most occupations required at least 80 points to receive an invitation.

Click here to see all the occupations invited.

How to apply for the 189 Skilled Independent Visa?

  1. Your occupation must be on the Medium-Term occupation list
  2. Obtain positive skills assessment and required English test results
  3. You must meet minimum 65 points to be able to lodge an expression of interest (EOI)
  4. Submit an EOI through SkillSelect
  5. If invited, submit visa application within 60 days of receiving an Invitation to Apply and include all supporting documents for the application

If your occupation is not receiving invitations, consider exploring employer-sponsored options such as the 482 visa or 494 visa.

Do you need help with your visa application?

Our team of experienced Immigration Lawyers and Migration Agents is ready to assist you with your visa application.

Based in Adelaide, South Australia, we provide Australian immigration advice to people and businesses from all over the world.

You can book an appointment online or call us at (+61) 8 8351 9956.

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Latest News in Australian Immigration – End of the 2024 Financial Year

As the end of the fiscal year approaches, many changes are being made to the Australian immigration system. Many of these changes stem from the Budget 2024-25.

We have already posted some videos about these changes, which you can find on our YouTube channel.

Today’s news includes an exciting 189 invitation round, restrictions on applying for student visas, skills assessment updates, and a new visa coming soon.

No Student Visas for Those with Tourist/Visitor or Graduate Visas

From 1 July 2024, visitor visa holders and temporary graduate visa holders will not be able to apply for student visas onshore. In the short term, this will lead to many graduate and visitor visa holders lodging applications before 30 June 2024.

Tourist Australia 1

In summary, from 1 July 2024, the following subclasses will not be able to apply for a student visa onshore:

  • Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate)
  • Subclass 600 (Visitor)
  • Subclass 601 (Electronic Travel Authority)
  • Subclass 602 (Medical Treatment)
  • Subclass 651 (eVisitor)
  • Subclass 988 (Maritime Crew)

This is in addition to the visas already listed which cannot make a valid student visa application, which are:

  • Subclass 403 (Temporary Work) International Relations – Domestic Worker (Diplomatic or Consular) stream
  • Subclass 426 (Domestic Worker (Temporary) – Diplomatic or Consular)
  • Subclass 771 (Transit)
  • Subclass 995 (Diplomatic Temporary) – primary visa holders only

189 Invitation Round Released

A 189 Skilled Independent Visa invitation round has just happened On the 13th of June 2024! It includes invitations for a wide range of occupations with high points, many in the range of 85 to 100 points. The occupations include engineers, accountants, ICT professionals, and construction-related trades, such as carpenters and painters.

Before this round, the last few rounds only included invitations for health and teaching professions, which was discouraging for those in other occupations.

The June 2024 round is encouraging for many, as it opens up opportunities for a wide range of occupations.

State Nomination 190 and 491 Visas Updates

Only New South Wales (NSW) and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) are still open. The other states are already closed and will reopen in the new financial year.

Increase in the TSMIT

From 1 July 2024, the TSMIT will increase from $70,000 to $73,150.

The TSMIT is the minimum salary that employers are required to pay when they sponsor someone on a 482, 186, or 494 visa.

Any new nominations from this date will need to meet the new TSMIT of $73,150.

This change will not affect existing visa holders and nominations lodged before 1 July 2024.

Good News for People Seeking to Apply for the 482 Employer-Sponsored Visa

From November 2024, applicants will be able to apply for the 482 employer-sponsored visa after 1 year of experience. Currently, the applicant must have 2 years of full-time experience.

With the shortage of invitations in the points-based visas, this change for the employer-sponsored 482 visa will be welcomed by many students and 408 holders looking for their next visa.

We have a blog with some tips on how to find a sponsor. Click here to read.

Graduate Visa Changes

From 1 July, the maximum eligible age to apply for the 485 Graduate Visa will be reduced to 35 years or under at the time of application.

Masters (research) and PhD graduates, as well as Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders, will still be eligible if they are under 50 years of age.

Any applications lodged on or after 1 July 2024 will be assessed under the new subclass 485 visa requirements, which include the reduction of the age limit to 35 and under.

If you need to apply for a 485 Graduate Visa, please contact us.

Ministerial Direction

There has been much media commentary in relation to Directions 99 and the decisions of the AAT.

This pertains to visa holders with character issues and some decisions by the AAT to reinstate visas for those with criminal convictions.

A new Direction 110 has been released, emphasizing the protection of the Australian community in visa decisions involving character issues.

ORANA DAMA Expanded

The variation of the Orana Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) has been expanded to include an additional 41 local government areas across inland NSW.

This expansion grants a geographical boundary extension to include the RDA regions of Riverina, Murray, Southern Inland, and Central West.

The variation will support the development and growth of regional NSW, expanding to 129 occupations under the Orana DAMA, giving businesses across 53 local government areas in NSW access to a broader range of skilled workers.

Click here to check the ORANA DAMA Occupation List.

Western Australia Subsidy Up to $7,500

The Skilled Migrant Job Connect Subsidy program is now available through the Migration WA Portal to help onshore migrants cover the costs of skills assessments, gap training, and occupational licensing by providing reimbursements of up to $7,500.

This support aims to assist migrants in gaining employment in Western Australia that aligns with their overseas qualifications, skills, and experience, thereby bolstering the state’s skilled workforce.

You can find the requirements here.australian dollar bills 1

End of the Global Talent Visa and the Business Visa

The Australian Government announced that it will close the Global Talent Visa and the Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP) in 2024 and replace them with the new National Innovation Visa.

What is the National Innovation Visa?

This new visa aims to attract exceptionally talented migrants to Australia, such as high-performing entrepreneurs, major investors, and global researchers. Streams of the National Innovation Visa could include:

  • High-performing entrepreneurs
  • Major investors
  • Global researchers

Here you can find more information about the National Innovation Visa Australia.

Skills Assessments Updates

VETASSESS

VETASSESS reopened new applications for Chefs and Fitters, which they stopped last year.

In May, they also reopened to cooks, diesel motor mechanics, and motor mechanics.

Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) Updates

The requirement for mandatory skills assessment through the Offshore Skills Assessment Program (OSAP) has been removed for certain automotive trades from qualified applicants/countries of passport. Applicants can now have their skills assessed through the Migration Skills Assessment (MSA) program. This change provides a less expensive documentary evidence-only assessment option.

Do You Need Help with an Australian Visa Application?

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. You can book an appointment online or call us at (+61) 8 8351 9956.

Sources:

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/news-media/archive/article?itemId=1211

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skillselect/invitation-rounds

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/news-media/archive/article?itemId=1205

https://budget.gov.au/content/bp1/index.htm

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/temporary-graduate-485/changes

https://migration.wa.gov.au/news/skilled-migrant-job-connect-subsidy-program-now-available-migration-wa-portal

https://www.rdaorana.org.au/migration/dama

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/news-media/archive/article?itemId=1209

https://www.vetassess.com.au/news/reopening-new-applications-for-chef-and-fitter-general-occupations

https://www.vetassess.com.au/news/reopening-new-applications-for-cook-diesel-motor-mechanic-and-motor-mechanic-general

https://www.tradesrecognitionaustralia.gov.au/news/requirements-applicants-selected-automotive-trades-now-have-option-be-assessed-through

 

 

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Making the Graduate Visa 35 or under will affect Australia's postgraduate research sector and high-skill labor market – We propose a policy solution

The Australian government has announced significant revisions to its migration strategy, notably adjusting the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485). A key alteration is the reduction of the age limit for applicants from 50 to 35 years or under, which will have implications for many international students and educational institutions.

Setting an age limit of 35 or under for graduate visas in Australia is likely to substantially affect international postgraduate students and the research capabilities of universities.

The government is planning to introduce the changes from the first of July 2024, as you can read here.  

This article will discuss all the implications of age reduction, particularly for the postgraduate research sector, which includes international students studying for a Master’s degree by research or a Doctoral degree in Australia.

Several rows of contemporary intercultural university students sitting by long wooden desks in lecture hall and listening to professor at lesson

FOI Results Show Numerous PhD and Master by Research Students Will Be Impacted

Work Visa Lawyers obtained information from a Freedom of Information (FOI) request released on February 24, 2024, which provided insights on the number of international students who may be affected.

Click here to check the FOI and the number of postgraduate research in Australia.

The introduction of a 35-year age limit presents a significant challenge, particularly for PhD candidates, who may surpass this age during their studies. Therefore, being under 31 before starting a PhD becomes crucial.

As of January 31, 2024, Australia hosted 17,574 postgraduate research visa holders, including PhD and Masters by research students. Among them, 45.87% were under 30, 31.93% were aged 30 to 34, and 22.20% were over 35. This suggests up to 50% of current postgraduate research students might be ineligible for a graduate visa upon completing their studies if the age limit is lowered from 50 to 35 or under for all students since many students from 30 to 35 years old will finish their studies over 35 years old.

Masters and PhD Graduates Make Excellent Skilled Migrants

Eligibility for the 485 provides international students the time needed to line up employment and do skills assessments so as the possibility to apply for Australian PR. Without the possibility of a graduate visa many potential students that are over the age of 35 will choose not to study in Australia. This mainly means that Australia misses out on many post graduate students.

Masters and PhD students are more likely to obtain employment and secure better jobs, as seen on page 9 of the "Review of the Points Test Discussion Paper" released in April 2024. The review states:

"Education is strongly associated with positive employment outcomes for migrants. PhD graduates are more likely to be employed than Bachelor graduates, who in turn are more likely to be employed than Vocational Education and Training (VET) graduates. Education is also strongly correlated with incomes — migrants with a PhD earn 20 percent more over 10 years than migrants with a Bachelor degree. Education also has a stronger impact on successful labor market outcomes after five years than on immediate outcomes, reflecting that education enables migrants to adapt to a changing labor market.”

The Review also says: “Migrants with higher levels of education also contribute to a more dynamic economy, and improve the wages of local workers. A focus on education, along with English language skills, means migrants are less likely to be exploited, with modelling by the Grattan Institute showing that workers who are more educated are less likely to be paid below the minimum wage.”

In conclusion, the review says: “All these considerations are not fully reflected in the points test, with a PhD only earning 20 points, whereas a Bachelor degree earns 15, and a trade qualification 10. This does not reflect the degree of difference in outcomes, as the gap can easily be bridged by undertaking a professional year or returning to study in a regional area, which are worth 5 points each."

You can read the Review of the Points Test Discussion Paper here.

This implies that individuals with higher educational levels, such as PhD holders, are more likely to find better-paying jobs and will earn more points on the Points Test. Therefore, excluding individuals aged 36 and over from applying for the Graduate Visa will decrease the number of highly qualified and skilled individuals that Australia seeks.

It is concerning that the skills points review recommends more postgraduate migrants while the visa criteria is discriminating against or selecting against postgraduate students.

Effects on the Australian Research Community and Labor Market

The new age restriction is expected to saturate the student visa/graduate market with recent graduates from vocational and bachelor's programs who may lack experience and may find it challenging to secure employment in their field of study.

From my years of experience as an Immigration lawyer I have observed the most favourable employment outcomes come from Master's graduates with approximately 5 years of experience from their home country before pursuing Master's degrees in Australia. This demographic might now be discouraged from studying in Australia due to the new policy.

Mature scientist looking in microscope during chemical investigation in lab

The average age of individuals entering PhD programs in Australia is 34, highlighting the significant role of mature students in the academic research environment. These students often contribute diverse life experiences and perspectives that enhance research and academic discourse.

Regarding international PhD students in Australia, data indicates a concentration in the early 30s age range, with about 40.9% of foreign PhD graduates remaining in Australia. This underscores their substantial contribution to the Australian research community and labor market.

Should Australia Exclude Mature Students from the Graduate Visa Program?

An age limit of under 35 for obtaining a graduate visa could potentially exclude a considerable portion of these mature students. This could have several implications:

1.         Research Diversity and Quality: Mature students, including those over 35, often have substantial professional and life experiences that can contribute to the depth, diversity, and innovation in research. Limiting this group might reduce the richness of academic inquiry and debate within universities.

2.         International Collaboration: International students, particularly those pursuing PhDs, play a vital role in the global academic community, fostering international collaboration and cultural exchange. Restricting age could deter these valuable contributors from choosing Australia as their destination, thereby impacting the international ties and networks that Australian universities benefit from.

3.         Labor Market and Skill Development: PhD graduates contribute significantly to the high-skill labor market. An age restriction might not only affect the availability of skilled professionals in certain research fields but also limit the opportunities for mature students to further their careers and personal development through advanced research opportunities.

The proposed age limit could also deter international students, especially Ph.D. candidates, from choosing Australia as their destination, impacting the international networks and collaborations that benefit Australian universities.

Furthermore, Ph.D. graduates significantly contribute to the high-skill labor market, and an age restriction might limit the availability of skilled professionals in certain fields, as well as mature students' opportunities for career and personal development through advanced research opportunities.

An Age Policy Solution to Encourage International Post-graduates

A strategic age limit for Graduate Visas could be implementing a tiered age limit, such as 36 for Vocational and Bachelor degrees, 40 for Masters, and 45 for PhDs. This approach could maintain the engagement of international students in post-graduate research, while still advancing the government's migration policy goals of limiting older skilled migrants.

Type of course

Age limit

Degree-level courses or vocational (VET)

Age to 36

Masters

Age to 40

PhD

Age to 45

Further, there should be a transitional period to allow for those who began study in Australia before the 1st of July 2024 to qualify for the graduate visa up to the age of 45. Those that start to study after the 1sf of July 2024 will know that there are new predictions in age limit and so will be able to make a decision based on that acknowledgment rather than having the rough pull down from them once they need the end of the course.

Pretty laughing Vietnamese woman with many folders and document and smartphone

Conclusion:

The recent changes to Australia's Graduate Visa, specifically the reduction of the age limit to 35 years and under, present significant challenges for international postgraduate students, particularly those pursuing research-intensive degrees like PhDs. These changes impact not only the individuals directly affected—older students who bring a wealth of experience and depth to their fields of study—but also the broader academic and research communities in Australia.

Considering the substantial contributions of mature international students to the academic and labor markets, it would be beneficial for the Australian government to reconsider the age restrictions as suggested above.

Sources:

https://www.workvisalawyers.com.au/images/Number_of_student_visa_holders_in_Australia_February_2024.pdf

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/programs-subsite/migration-strategy/Documents/migration-strategy.pdf

https://thesiswhisperer.com/2019/10/02/starting-a-phd-at-58-years-old/

https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/reports-and-pubs/PDFs/points-test-discussion-paper-april-2024.pdf

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We acknowledge and pay respect to the past, present and future Traditional Custodians and
Elders of this land and this nation, and the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational
practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

This site's contents are for general information purposes only
We recommend you seek advice from a Registered Migration Agent and Lawyer
(such as Work Visa Lawyers) in relation to your factual situation and relevant migration laws

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