The Australian budget has not clarified the position on migration.
Australia’s budget announcement did nothing to change the skilled migration program despite the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship claiming that the focus of the program will be sharpened.
The size of the migration progam remains at 168,700. That breaks down at 113,850 for skilled migration, 54,550 for family migration and 300 special eligibility places. As expected, the number of places for general skilled migration has been reduced to 3,600 to make way for an increase of employer-sponsored skilled migration and business skills.
Family migration visas will also be reduced however the DIAC reassure family members that they can access temporary visas to visit family members who have emigrated to Australia. Little comfort then to the relatives who want to move to Australia to be with their families.
Senator Chris Evans said of the minor changes: “These reforms support the Government’s policy to deliver a more demand-driven skilled migration program that meets the need of the economy in sectors and regions where there are shortages of skilled workers.”
“Foreign skilled labour is an important driver of economic growth and contributes to increases productivity and labour force levels. It also benefits migrants by ensuring they have a job with a direct match to their skills on arrival in Australia.”
Of course it would also make it easier for potential migrants if there was less confusion about migration legislation changes. The new Skilled Occupation List was meant to be out at the end of April but has been delayed by weeks now, meaning that migrants don’t yet know if the skills they have are in demand in Australia.
Some migrants who have been affected by the GSM suspension won’t be able to apply to emigrate to Australia until July as the DIAC claim they have been overwhelmed with GSM applications.
The Migration Institute of Australia have welcomed the migration program plans but criticise the government’s handling of the SOL. Spokeswoman Maurene Horder said: “An effective skilled migration programme can only be achieved with an immediate announcement of the Skilled Occupation List, now weeks overdue, and a revised Points Test, which underpins the overall program.
The SOL was widely believed to be available after the Federal Budget was announced. No news yet but we’ll keep you posted!
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