The Australian Government offers support for domestic violence survivors
Australia is stepping up its efforts to help victim-survivors of domestic and family violence through more support initiatives. Recent data shows that domestic violence is still a big problem in Australia. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), one in six women and one in sixteen men have experienced physical or sexual violence from […]
Family joining a 482 visa holder
When it comes to your employees sponsored through the 457 or 482 visa programs, it is important to know that their families can only join them in Australia if you give them your approval. This is because certain sponsorship obligations that apply to your sponsored worker also extend to their family members. Employees who have been […]
What lies ahead for COVID Pandemic visa holders?
The Australian Government stopped accepting new COVID Pandemic visa applications (subclass 408) on 1 February 2024. The visa was created in April 2020 to help temporary visa holders stay legally in Australia during border closures and to address job shortages in critical sectors. Now that the borders are open and the number of temporary visa holders is […]
Increased Scrutiny in 482 Nominations
In recent months, we have observed a higher level of scrutiny and subsequent refusals in 482 nomination applications. Of particular focus are companies with a lower turnover or where the salary package includes guaranteed overtime as a part of the salary package. The Department has also stopped asking for further information in these cases and move to […]
Policy Change for International Drivers in NSW Since 1st July 2023
There have been new rules for overseas drivers in NSW effective from July 1, 2023. Visa holders are reminded to make sure you are following these new rules and only driving where you are permitted. Here’s a quick overview: 1. Changes for Overseas Drivers: 2. Safety and Policy Updates: 3. Conversion and Consequences: For more […]
Eligible New Zealanders can now apply directly for Australian citizenship
New Zealanders are taking advantage of a new opportunity to become Australian citizens shortly after the Albanese government made changes to the migration system. Now, New Zealanders can apply for Australian citizenship directly after living in Australia for four years, without having to become permanent residents first. This change is welcomed by many as it […]
Submitting false English test results will cause visa application refusal
Meeting the English requirements is often a requirement for you to obtain a visa to remain in Australia. Lately – we have noticed an increase in scams and activity that result in fabricated or falsified English test results being provided in order to meet the minimum English requirements to be eligible for a particular visa. […]
No income requirements for PR Subclass 191 visa applications
The Department of Home Affairs has recently clarified that there is no minimum income requirement for the subclass 191 Permanent Residence visa (Skilled Regional). There is no minimum income threshold for applicants for the Sc 191 eligibility. This is the visa that provisional subclass 491 and 494 visa holders convert to once they are eligible for permanent residency. […]
Increased savings now required for Australian student visa applications
The Australian Government has recently increased the savings requirement for International Students applying for a Subclass 500 Student visa in Australia or from overseas. This change, effective from October 1, 2023, is the first update since 2019 and is necessary due to increased living expenses. Starting October 1st, student visa applicants must demonstrate a minimum savings of […]
Visa applications from Healthcare or Teaching Occupations now prioritised by the Department
Australia is currently prioritising applications concerning healthcare and teaching occupations according to the new Ministerial Direction No 100 that came into effect on 28 October 2022. This also includes offshore permanent and provisional applications to allow more workers to enter Australia and ease critical workforce shortages. Due to the high volume of applications, the Department […]