Australia Strengthens Immigration Policies to Protect Students and Prevent Visa Abuse

Australia unveils measures to combat widespread fraud and exploitation within its immigration program, with a focus on addressing issues related to student and protection visas, which have been termed 'serious and systemic' by Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neil.

1. To address these problems, the government plans to establish a new division dedicated to immigration compliance and allocate an additional $31.5 million in funding.
2. In addition to these specific measures, there will also be broader changes to the immigration system, and a review of the current system is set to be delivered by the end of the year.
3. Recognizing that the current immigration system is too complex, the government aims to make it more manageable for individuals and businesses seeking skilled workers.
4. There will be an overhaul of the system of migration agents, as some have been found to exploit the system.
5. These actions are part of the Labor government's efforts to reform Australia's immigration program in response to post-pandemic migration surges and visa processing delays.

Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neil expressed optimism saying: "We've initiated a comprehensive migration review set to be unveiled by the close of 2023. Simultaneously, we've boosted funding for visa processing to expedite the clearance of mounting applications. Our commitment stems from the recognition that Australia's immigration system, while intricate, is ripe for simplification, making it more accessible for ordinary individuals and businesses aiming to bring in skilled professionals".

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FAQs

1. What does the future hold for immigration in Australia?

The government has revealed its permanent Migration program plans, with a total of 190,000 slots available. Within this program, the Family stream will account for 52,500 places, constituting 28% of the program, while the Skill stream will comprise 137,000 places, representing 72% of the allocation.

2. Is Australia a good place for students?

Yes, Australia is not only a premier study destination but also an excellent place to call home. In fact, out of the 1,300 top universities ranked by QS in 2023, approximately 38 of them are situated in Australia. These universities provide a world-class educational experience, backed by exceptional faculty and state-of-the-art infrastructure.

3. Is Australia offering visas for skilled workers?

Australia provides two main visa options for skilled workers:

1. Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa: Designed for skilled workers seeking to live and work in regional Australia on a temporary basis.
2. Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) Visa: This visa is intended for individuals engaged in short-term, specialized work within the country.

4. What is the fastest-growing job in Australia?

IT and engineering positions take the lead as the fastest-growing job sectors in Australia.

5. How many Points do you need for PR in Australia?

To qualify for an Australia PR visa under the Australian PR points system, a minimum of 65 points is necessary.