Resetting the Government’s Migration Strategy

Andrew Woo (LPN 5511494), an experienced Immigration Lawyer at Taylor & Scott, shares his insights on the recent positive developments in Australia’s migration system.

Following the publication of the “Review of the Migration System” report, led by Dr. Martin Parkinson AC PSM, the Department of Home Affairs outlined the Government’s Migration 

Strategy, emphasising significant policy shifts aimed at:

  1. Prioritising the skills and individuals needed for economic prosperity and security;
  2. Simplifying and streamlining the process for employers and migrants;
  3. Ensuring positive outcomes for both Australians and migrants after arrival;
  4. Restoring the core Australian values of integrity, fairness, and inclusion within the migration system.

During a recent National Press Club address, Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil highlighted several issues with the current system and announced the “biggest transformation of our migration system in a generation.” 

She criticised the previous government’s inaction and neglect, pointing out the following problems:

  • Overemphasis on temporary migration programs, which have not supplied the necessary skills and talent to address pressing national challenges;
  • A slow and complex system that is difficult to navigate;
  • Insufficient protections for participants in permanent and temporary migration programs;
  • Misalignment with core Australian values such as integrity, fairness, and inclusion.

Minister O’Neil made two major announcements:

  1. Starting on July 1, 2023, the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) will rise from $53,900 to $70,000 for the first time in a decade, aligning with the Grattan Institute’s 2022 proposal.
  2. By the end of 2023, all temporary skilled workers in the short-term stream will be eligible to apply for permanent residency (PR) through the TRT pathway.

Additionally, the Minister indicated plans to revamp the migration system further by:

  • Overhauling outdated skilled occupation lists and employer-sponsored nomination labor market testing requirements;
  • Introducing three new pathways for temporary skilled migrants tailored to Australia’s needs;
  • Tightening requirements for international students studying in Australia;
  • Revising the current points test;
  • Establishing Jobs and Skills Australia, a new government body responsible for identifying skills needs in the country’s economy;
  • Encouraging closer collaboration between the federal government and the states;
  • Enhancing integrity through improved post-arrival monitoring and enforcement of wages and employment conditions to prevent exploitation.

Andrew Woo, our immigration lawyer, commented on the proposed changes, saying, “The planned changes are long overdue and based on common sense. I especially appreciate the idea of eliminating unnecessary red tape for employer-sponsored visa pathways, including updating the skilled occupation lists and modifying labour market testing requirements.”

As Australia’s migration policies undergo significant transformations, it’s more important than ever to have a trusted legal expert by your side. Taylor & Scott Lawyers are here to guide you through the evolving immigration landscape and help you secure the best possible outcome for your unique situation. 

Contact Taylor & Scott Lawyers today to discuss your immigration needs.

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