Immediate actions
Increase the permanent Migration Program planning level to 195,000 in 2022-23 to help ease widespread, critical skills shortages
Provide $36.1 million in additional funding to accelerate visa processing and resolve the visa backlog
Increase the duration of post-study work rights by allowing two additional years of stay for recent graduates with select degrees in areas of verified skills shortages to strengthen the pipeline of skilled labour in Australia, informed by advice from a working group
Extend the relaxation of work restrictions for student and training visa holders until
30 June 2023 to help ease skills and labour shortages
Areas for further work
The Government will conduct a review of the • purpose, structure and objectives of Australia’s migration system to ensure it meets the challenges of the coming decade.
Implement the recommendations of the Migrant Workers’ Taskforce to tackle migrant worker exploitation
The Government will also progress work to:
Assess the effectiveness of the skilled migration occupation lists
Expand pathways to permanent residency for temporary skilled sponsored workers
Raise the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) following broad engagement on equitably setting the threshold and pathway for adjustment
Reform the current labour market testing process following consultation with unions and business
Bring forward a package of reforms to address migration worker exploitation during 2023
Examine the potential for industry sponsorship of skilled migrants
Embed a role for Jobs and Skills Australia’s analysis of skill shortages in setting priorities of the skilled migration program
Consider policies to address regional labour shortages and how to improve small business access to skilled migration
All levels of government will work together to ensure infrastructure, housing and social services are well-planned to meet the needs of a growing population
If you need advice, we offer Skype, Zoom and phone consultations. Call +(02) 8054 2537, 0434 890 199 or book online today to speak to our migration specialists.
