Migrate2oz

MIGRATION PROGRAM TARGETING SKILLS - MINISTER FOR IMMIGRATION AND CITIZENSHIP Media release

2010-10-27T16:12:00.000+11:00

27 October 2010

Australia’s migration program continues to target the skills Australia needs for a healthy economy, Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Chris Bowen MP, announced today.

Launching the Report on Migration Program 2009-10, Mr Bowen said the Government’s targeted approach to overseas workers was helping to fill critical skills gaps in the healthcare, engineering, financial services and IT sectors.

More than 60 per cent of the skill stream outcome comprised applicants under the targeted categories, including those who were sponsored by either an employer or state/territory government – a 12 per cent increase on the previous program year.

The total outcome for the 2009-10 migration program was 168,623 places (0.05 per cent below the planning level). The 2009-10 skill stream outcome of 107,868 places accounted for 64 per cent of the total migration program.

The skilled program planning level was reduced in the 2009-10 Budget to 108,100 in response to the continued economic slowdown through most of 2009.

Despite this, the proportion of overseas workers who were sponsored by employers continued to rise, comprising 38 per cent of the 2009-10 skill stream, compared to 33 per cent in 2008-09 and 22 per cent in the 2007-08 program year.

“This outcome is consistent with the Government’s focus on high-demand, employer-sponsored professionals in areas where Australia has critical skill shortages,” Mr Bowen said.

“The program met the Government's objective of sharpening the focus on skilled migration and targeting the needs of Australian industries and employers.”

The migration program showed that across all permanent skilled visa categories, the top three occupations were accountants (6,734), computing professionals (5,370) and registered nurses (3,960) while the top three countries of citizenship for these categories were the United Kingdom (18,487), India (18,042) and China (14,505).

The Government announced in the 2010-11 Budget that the overall level of skilled migration would increase by 5,750 places to further address Australia’s needs as the economic climate improves. This will increase the proportion of skilled migrants to 67.5 per cent of the migration program.

The top three countries of citizenship under the family stream were China (10,218), the United Kingdom (7,229) and India (5,103). Overall, the United Kingdom remains Australia’s largest source of migrants with a total outcome of 25,738 or 15 per cent of the total migration program in 2009-10, with China (24,768) and India (23,164) following closely behind.

The Report on Migration Program 2009-10 is available on the Department of Immigration and Citizenship Website at www.immi.gov.au/media/statistics/statistical-info/visa-grants/

The Minister also revealed that refugees from Burma, Iraq and Bhutan are among the 13,770 vulnerable people starting a new life in Australia through the 2009–10 humanitarian program. The planning level was 13,750 places.

The figures reveal that of these 13,770 people, Burma has 1,959 humanitarian visa grants, Iraq 1,688 and Bhutan 1,144. “These refugees had fled violence and persecution in their home countries,” Mr Bowen said.

“Many had been living in volatile and insecure situations, both in camps and other environments. “As a responsible member of the international community, Australia contributes to the system of international refugee protection. This is something of which we in Australia can all be proud as we have provided refuge and hope for 13,770 people.”

Chris Bowen is Australia's new Minister of Immigration

2010-09-15T10:41:00.000+10:00

Chris Bowen is Australia's new Minister of Immigration. Chris Bowen replaces
former Minister of Immigration Chris Evans, who is now responsible for the
department of Jobs, Skills and Workplace Relations. What does this mean for
potential migrants. Bowen has admitted to being 'taken aback' by his new
appointment. The Asylum Seekers debate was certainly not handled very well
as part of the election campaign. Bowen has already said that the way
refugees are handled is his first priority. For Skilled Australian visa
applicants, there may be questions how the growing backlog of applications
in the system will be approached, as well as how the State Migration Plans
are brought on stream. The timing by some states namely ACT and Victoria is
that October is a possible date for implementation - time will tell!!

The Australian Government is hosting an employment expo in London to assist companies find skills from the UK

2010-08-06T16:04:00.000+10:00

The DIAC Australian Skilled Visa expo planned for September will enable company representatives from a number of major Australian employers as well as representatives from State/Territory governments who intend on attract skilled workers to their State and or Company. The last expo DIAC hosted was in 2009 and some 1800 people attended. Despite cut backs to the Skilled Occupation List there is a fundamental shortage of skilled employees across many industries. This expo in is to target those industries most in need such as building & constructions, the resource sector and the medical sector. Key occupations being sought are tradesmen, healthcare workers and various types of engineers.

Attendees will be able to gather information and research various aspects related to their migration as well possible career pathways. and featured 38 exhibitors including Australian employers, government organisations and relocation service providers.

Previous expo have been very successful for all exhibitors who are get great exposure to many high quality candidates. Surveys have shown attendees find expos as a useful resources and recommend then to others. The Skills Australia Needs expo will be held in London on September 11 and 12. See our face book page for more info

Overseas students inflate migration bubble (TheAustralian Article)

2010-07-30T10:12:00.003+10:00

The Australian - Overseas students inflate migration bubble
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/overseas-students-inflate-migration-bubble/story-e6frg6nf-1225898702323

A SERIOUS political headache looms for the next federal government over what to do with up to 200,000 international students.

Set up your bank accounts before arriving in Australia with NAB Migrant Banking

2010-07-29T22:13:00.003+10:00

Planning to live, work, study or set-up a business in Australia, New Zealand of the UK?

The National Australia Bank group can help you set-up your banking needs in your chosen country before you leave home.

When it comes to assessing the implications of a move overseas our dedicated team of international banking experts can help you with the appropriate advice and strategies for your individual circumstances.

Well before you depart we can help you:

Set-up a bank account in Australia, New Zealand or the UK before you arrive.
Arrange foreign exchange solutions to suit your personal, business and investment needs.
Provide you with a dedicated migrant banker aligned to your individual needs (Personal, Private and Business Banking as well as Wealth Management)

If you are not yet located in your chosen country you can use the following information and our online application forms to open bank accounts in Australia, New Zealand or the UK before you arrive.

To find out more visit www.nabgroup.com/migrantbanking or contact Migrate2oz

Queenslands State Migration Plan

2010-07-09T14:28:00.001+10:00

A Queensland State-sponsored and State regional-sponsored Migration Plan has been developed, and will be put in place subject to agreement with the Australian Government. Until the Plan is in place, Queensland may continue to nominate suitable applicants with an occupation on the current Queensland Eligible Skills Lists as long as the occupation is also on the Australian Government's Skilled Occupation List (SOL).

ACT - Sponsorship for offshore applications target date 1 August 2010

2010-07-02T09:36:00.001+10:00

ACT are planning to publish the 2010 / 11 skills list on 1 August. The announcement of ACT’s State Migration Plan has also been delayed and they are now working to a 1 August start date.

Northern Territory - Sponsorship for offshore applications target date 1 September 2010

2010-07-02T09:33:00.001+10:00

The Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship suspended accepting offshore General Skilled Migration visa applications from 7 May 2010 until 30 June 2010. Applicants will only be able to lodge an application after 1 July 2010 if they have been assessed for an occupation on the revised national Skilled Occupation List (SOL).

The Northern Territory will put in place a State Migration Plan and will publish a Northern Territory Occupation List with that plan. This list will contain a number of occupations that are not on the national SOL. The target date for the Northern Territory's State Migration Plan is 1 September 2010.

Processing of all offshore sponsorship applications has been suspended until the Territory Migration Plan comes into effect.

All applicants for Northern Territory sponsorship will be required to demonstrate that they have positive employment prospects in the Northern Territory even if their occupation is on the shortage list.

Annual DIAC fee increases

2010-06-30T16:05:00.001+10:00

From 1 July 2010, the Migration Regulations 1994 (the Migration Regulations) are amended to effect the annual adjustment of most fees and visa application charges (VACs). Certain fees and charges under the Migration Regulations are increased by 1.8 percent, in accordance with the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The second installments of the VACs for Contributory Parent and Contributory Aged parent visas increase in accordance with the Contributory Parent Visa Composite Index (CPVCI), calculated by the Australian Government Actuary, which is 10.6 percent for the 2010-11 financial year.

New Australia Prime Minister Flags Further Cuts To Immigration Quotas

2010-06-28T09:56:00.001+10:00

JULIA Gillard has used her first major announcement to reassure disenchanted Sydneysiders she does not believe in a "big Australia" with a population target of 36 million.

The policy is clearly at odds with former prime minister Kevin Rudd, who announced the "big Australia" targeting 36 million people by 2050. Ms Gillard announced Labor would produce what is in effect a two-speed immigration policy to match Australia's two-speed economy, but admitted it was "a very difficult problem". "Australia should not hurtle down the track towards a big population," she said.

Yesterday reached out to the people of western Sydney, whose number-one concern is asylum-seekers, according to internal Labor Party polling. The polling found Labor was in serious trouble in western Sydney, with its primary vote dropping as low as 30 per cent and the asylum-seeker issue overriding all others. "If you spoke to the people of western Sydney, for example, about a 'big Australia' they would laugh at you and ask you a very simple question: where will these 40 million people go?" Ms Gillard said.

She said the new policy was not intended to open an immigration debate. "This is not about bringing down the shutters in immigration," she said. "It is a debate about planning affected by many factors - water supply, open space, infrastructure, ensuring the appropriate tax base to support our ageing population, the need for skills and the need to preserve a good quality life. Parts of Australia are desperate for workers, but other parts are desperate for jobs; having a smart and sustainable population strategy coupled with the right skills strategy will help improve this balance."

She understood how important immigration was, but said arbitrary targets were not the answer. "I do not support the idea of setting arbitrary (population) targets of, say, 'a 40-million-strong Australia'.

"I don't want business to be held back because they couldn't find the right workers. That's why skilled migration is so important. "But I also don't want areas of Australia with 25 per cent youth unemployment because there are no jobs."

New SOL is here!!

2010-06-23T12:35:00.001+10:00

Finally the official version of the new SOL is here. Schedule 3 is the new SOL for overseas applicants (page 29), and Schedule 4 (page 37) is the list of occupations which may be state sponsored. The table contains relevant occupations, points and assessing authorities. The column for "Country" refers to whether it's a trade assessable by Vetassess or TRA.

NEW list of Occupation for Subclass 457 visas

2010-06-23T12:24:00.001+10:00

The New list of Occupations that apply to the Occupations for Nominations in relation to Subclass 457 (Business (Long Stay) visas has been released. The list is extensive and provides the opportunity for many to start a new life in Australia. Before embarking on a migration strategy that starts with a 457 visa you should certainly ensure that this provides you with a pathway to permanent residence down the track to avoid disappointment. That is if permanent residence if this is your intention.

Please Contact us to discuss your migration strategy.

Andrew Heathcote CA MMIA

Registered Migration Agent MARN 0850840

Change to Sponsorship requirements for Family and State/Territory Sponsorships

2010-06-23T11:41:00.001+10:00

Changes to the migration regulations affecting Skilled - Sponsored or Skilled - Regional Sponsored visa applications have just been announced.

Under the new regulations, applicants looking to lodge a sponsored application need to have the sponsorship in place at time of application. This applies to both relative or a state/territory government sponsored applications.

Currently, the sponsorship requirements need only be to be finalised at date the visa is decided on. So practically one could lodge an application and follow it up with a sponsorship at a later date. This is no longer the case! Previously one could also switch between getting sponsored by a family member and getting sponsored by a State/Territory if there were a change in circumstances for whatever reason. The intention seems to be that it will not be possible to switch state/territory nominations in the same way going forward.

If you believe that your application is impacted by these changes we urge you to contact us regarding your application.

Regards

Andrew Heathcote CA MMIA

Registered Migration Agent MARN 0850840

Australian Citizenship requirements

2010-06-23T11:25:00.001+10:00

On 1 July 2010 the current transitional arrangements for Citizenship applications will cease. This means that on and after 1 July 2010 there will only be one general residence requirement which everyone aged 16 and over will be required to meet. This residence requirement will apply to all applicants regardless of when they first arrived in Australia. It is based on the length of time:

· you have lawfully lived in Australia

· you have spent outside Australia

· you have been a permanent resident.

The requirement is that:-

· You must have been living in Australia on a valid Australian visa for 4 years immediately before applying, including 1 year as a permanent resident, and

· You must not have been absent from Australia for more than 1 year during the 4 year period, including no more than 90 days in the year immediately before applying.

The old requirements applied to those who became permanent residents prior to 1 July 2007 and required you to be in Australia as a permanent resident for at least:

· Two of the last Five (5) years; and

· 12 of the last 24 months

Please contact us regarding your Citizenship application.

Andrew Heathcote CA MMIA

Registered Migration Agent MARN 0850840

DIAC Country profile on United Kingdom

2010-06-16T07:34:00.001+10:00

In 2008-09 there were 31 882 UK born permanent additions to the resident Australian population. This makes the UK the largest source of new migrants to Australia over this period. Western Australia was the most popular destination, accounting for around 27 per cent of these new migrants. Another 14 455 UK born migrants were dependants of these skilled Primary Applicants.

In 2008-09 there were 6840 permanent additions from the UK as part of the Family Stream. This represents the second largest cohort of Family Stream migrants behind China. The remaining 1529 came as part of the Non-Program, Humanitarian and the Special Eligibility Streams. UK is the main source of Australia’s 457 migrants with 28 388 UK born migrants on this visa in Australia at June 2009. Of these, 16 196 were Primary Applicants.

In the 2008-2009 financial year, 21 070 UK born persons were granted a subclass 457 visa, an 11 per cent decrease from the previous year. Their most common occupations were registered nurses, personnel consultants, business and information professionals, specialist managers and general medical practitioners.

Access the full report an http://www.immi.gov.au/media/statistics/country-profiles/_pdf/united-kingdom.pdf

Andrew Heathcote CA MMIA

Registered Migration Agent MARN 0850840

www.migrate2oz.com.au

DIAC Country profile on South Africa

2010-06-16T07:29:00.001+10:00

Migration from South Africa increased rapidly in the 1990s due to the changing political situation, and still remains strong with 11 996 permanent additions in 2008-09, an increase of 54 per cent from 2007-08 (7762). The vast majority of South African migrants (more than 80 per cent) come to Australia via the Skill Stream, however, most of these new additions are dependents of the Primary Applicant.

Western Australia was the most popular destination, accounting for around 34 per cent of these new migrants, followed by Queensland (26 per cent) and New South Wales (20 per cent).

South Africa is the fourth largest source of Australia’s 457 migrants with 12 844 South Africa born migrants on this visa in Australia at June 2009, of which 4615 were Primary Applicants. In the 2008-2009 financial year, 9740 South Africans were granted a subclass 457 visa, which was a 4 per cent increase from the previous year. The most common occupations were registered nurses, business and information professionals, fitters and computing professionals.

Access the full report an http://www.immi.gov.au/media/statistics/country-profiles/_pdf/south-africa.pdf

Andrew Heathcote CA MMIA

Registered Migration Agent MARN 0850840

www.migrate2oz.com.au

CALLING ALL ACCOUNTANTS! - MORE CHANGES COMING

2010-06-15T09:58:00.000+10:00

If the prospect of writing the IELTS test is scary, the bar is soon to be raised for Accountants. As part of the skills assessment process it will become compulsory to have an having an IELTS score of at least 7 in each of the four (4) components – speaking, reading, listening and writing at the ACADEMIC level. These changes are coming into effect on 1 July 2010.

So there is there a small window of opportunity left to get the process underway an avoid having to write the IELTS at the Academic level.

Please contact us Urgently if you are an Accountant and have been thinking about migrating we can assist lodging your skills assessment prior to the change, BUT YOU NEED TO ACT QUICKLY!

A number of questions still remain unanswered!!

2010-05-18T13:04:00.001+10:00

Yesterday’s announcement with respect to the new Skilled Occupation List (SOL) was certainly a relief but this announcement still leaves a number of questions unanswered.

· Enter ANZSCO exit ASCO – The new list introduces the long awaited ANZSCO coding, which is already in operation within NZ migration.

· Clarity as to how points will vary for each occupation, which is the current practice, is required?

· There are some new occupations on the new SOL. Clarity is required which Australian body will be responsible for assessing these occupations.

· Once the new points test regulations are introduced further clarity may will questions, many of which stem from the fact that the new list of occupations is drawn from the ANZSCO as opposed to the ASCO.

· Where will those applicants holding current positive skills assessments under the ASCO coding be left. Skills assessment bodies are expected to make announcements with respect to any transitional arrangements or possibly DIAC will accept old skills assessments for a period of time. Engineers Australia sheds some light on this process stating the following at their web site:-

What does this mean for people applying for a Migration Skills Assessment by Engineers Australia?

1. Up to and including 30 June 2010, assessment outcome letters will be issued in ASCO codes only

2. From and including 1 July 2010, assessment outcome letters will be issued in ANZSCO codes only ... this will also apply to any reissued outcomes after that date

Please note - For applicants who hold, or are about to hold, an assessment outcome letter with an ASCO code issued by this office prior to 1 July 2010, and who lodge an application to DIAC within 12 months of the date of this letter:

DIAC have advised us that they will honour the ASCO code assessment for a period of 12 months after the introduction of the new SOL, or the expiry date of their 12-month validity of the assessment outcome letter, whichever is the sooner.

· Moving to ANZSCO also introduces some different skill level requirements (i.e. the level of degree, trade certificate or years experience required). There may be instances were an applicant has a valid skills assessment under ASCO and ANZSCO requires slightly different skill level. This may be splitting hairs but requires clarity never the less.

· And then there are the migration pathways that will hopefully become available again from 1 July 2010e when the State Migration Plans will be introduced. Where does this leave those individuals holding current sponsorships from the State/Territories? Will these convert or be valid under the State Migration Plans?

Lots of questions! So given that we are in a period of transition we advise you to engage a registered agent, who will be able to represent you in this ever evolving landscape. Please contact us regarding your application or future application but in the meantime though, we will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as and when we receive these.

NEW Skilled Occupation List and how it impacts you!

2010-05-17T09:57:00.000+10:00

Dear Client

On 17 May 2010, the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship announced a list of occupations that would form a new Skilled Occupations List (SOL) which is to reflect the Australian Government’s commitment to a labour market demand-driven skilled migration program.

The new list is specific to the general skilled migration (GSM) program and does not apply to employer-sponsored permanent or temporary visas. The new list is proposed to take effect from 1 July 2010 can be found here http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/general-skilled-migration/pdf/new-list-of-occupations.pdf. It is intended that this list will be reviewed annually to ensure it continues to be targeted at those skills Australia needs in the medium to longer term.

It is anticipated the new list would apply to all new GSM applications lodged on or after implementation of the new SOL, with the exception of applicants who fall within the proposed transitional arrangements which essentially relate to you if you held a student visa on 8 February 2010.

What does this mean for me?

If your occupation IS ON THE NEW SOL you will need to meet all the criteria to lodge GSM. You will however not be able to lodge an application for an offshore GSM visa until the temporary suspension which was introduced on the 8 May 2010 is lifted - this is expected to be from 1 July 2010. We also anticipate the introduction of a NEW POINTS test to come into effect in the second half of 2010.

If your occupation is NOT ON THE NEW SOL and you do not meet the proposed new requirements for independent skilled migration you may wish to consider your eligibility for alternative migration pathways, such as through employer or state/territory sponsorship.

· State/territory nomination - You may wish to consider your eligibility for state/territory nomination. It is intended that individual state/territory migration plans will be agreed to by the Minister for implementation in the second half of 2010. These plans may include occupations outside those specified on a new SOL.

· Employer nomination scheme (ENS) - You may wish to consider applying for a temporary or permanent visa under the employer nomination scheme (ENS). The list of occupations that is available to employer sponsored applicants is broader than the SOL. You will, however, be required to have an employer willing to sponsor you.

· Regional sponsored migration scheme (RSMS) - You may be eligible to apply for skilled migration under the regional sponsored migration scheme (RSMS). This scheme allows employers in regional or low population growth areas of Australia to sponsor employees who are foreign nationals for a permanent visa to work in regional Australia.

· Business Skills - You may be eligible to apply for business skilled migration under the Business Skills program. This scheme aims to attract people with proven experience and skill in business, senior business management and investment. The aims are state development and wider economic benefit to Australia.

· Student visa - You may wish to apply for a student visa to pursue further qualifications in Australia. The Department of Immigration and Citizenship does not recommend this option, as the SOL may change in line with the requirements of the Australian labour market.

We anticipate that these announcements will have a significant impact on many of your migration plans and strategies whether already commenced or yet still to commence.

We therefore urge you to contact us specifically with reference to your personal circumstances.

Yours faithfully

Andrew Heathcote CA MMIA

Registered Migration Agent

MARN 0850840

Waiting for the new SOL!

2010-05-07T23:00:00.000+10:00

This announcement by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) today (7 May 2010) regarding the suspension of accepting General Skilled Migration applications was certainly unexpected. Applications for Offshore General Skilled Visas will no longer be accepted from midnight tonight (AEST 7 May 2010), until the end of the current program year on 30th June, 2010. This temporary suspension means that people will not be able to lodge a valid application for an affected GSM visa for the duration of the suspension. I am of the opinion that DIAC were clearly trying to avoid a similar spike in applications that occurred in September 2007 before regulations were changed back then. We sympathize with those who still need to apply as it now becomes one of waiting to see if you will be on the NEW Skilled Occupation List. http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/general-skilled-migration/pdf/faq-temporary-suspension.pdf

We are confident that for those professionals in occupations such as Engineering, Computing, Accountancy and Nursing amongst others will more than likely be on the NEW Skilled Occupation List. Although you may not be able to lodge an application until at least the 1 July 2010, one can continue in obtaining your skills assessments and completing your IELTS. Form the 1 July we also expect further information from a number of States/Territories regarding their State Migration Plans which will list many occupations that may not be on the NEW SOL enabling you still to apply for a visa; and one that will command a high priority from a in processing point of view as well.

Andrew Heathcote CA MMIA

Registered Migration Agent MARN 0850840

Suspension of Offshore General Skilled Migration

2010-05-07T16:45:00.001+10:00

The Minister has today announced a temporary suspension of certain general skilled migration visas. The move hopes to ensure that all offshore general skilled applications made after today are in accordance with the occupations included on the new Skilled Occupation List (SOL), to be released later this month. The Minister has not indicated when the suspension will be lifted, however it will be no earlier than the announcement of the new SOL.

The Minister has announced that his Department will not accept applications for the following visa subclasses from 8 May 2010 until further notice:

• Subclass 175 – Skilled Independent;

• Subclass 176 – Skilled Sponsored; and

• Subclass 475 – Skilled Regional Sponsored.

Therefore, any applications received by the Department after 8 May 2010 for one of the above visa subclasses will be returned and the visa application charge refunded.

Please note that this suspension does not affect onshore general skilled migration visas.

See here for the media release.

Update on announcement of New Skilled Occupations List

2010-04-30T13:16:00.001+10:00

According the Department of Immigration and Citizenship: The Government is considering the report from Skills Australia containing their Skilled Occupation List. An announcement and publication of the new Skilled Occupation List for Migration purposes will be made in May. Previously, the Department had expected the new SOL would be announced on 30 April 2010.

We will keep you updated once further information is available in this regard.

Trying to curtail the hot property market - implications for temporary residents

2010-04-26T13:41:00.001+10:00

In a move to try and keep the houses affordable for first time home owners in Australia the Federal government will scrap its controversial new rules on foreign investment in real estate, and instead tighten both the rules and their enforcement to head. The about face is suspected to be in order to head off a damaging political storm. In an about-face, the Assistant Treasurer has announced that temporary residents will now have to seek approval from the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) to buy any real estate in Australia. This requirement was recently relaxed. Temporary residents will also be required to sell their Australian property when they leave Australia. And for the first time, the FIRB will be given the means to ensure that the laws are enforced.

Assessment criteria for Accountants changing from 1 July 2010

2010-04-25T11:45:00.003+10:00

With changes expected, there is a 2 month window of opportunity for accountants still to get assessed under the current rules, thereafter specific subjects will be compulsory and Academic IELTS will also be required.

According to Institute of Charted Accountants in Australia & CPA Australia, on 1 July, assessment criteria for General Skills Migration will be as follows:-

· A formal qualification assessed as being at least comparable to an Australian Bachelor degree.

· Completion of at least 9 out of the 12 core knowledge areas at tertiary level.

· Each nominated occupation has 4 mandatory core knowledge areas – please refer to the table below.

Core Knowledge Areas	ACCOUNTANT 2211-11	FINANCE MANAGER 1211-11	CORPORATE TREASURER 2213-11	EXTERNAL AUDITOR 2212-11
Accounting Systems and Processes	compulsory	compulsory	compulsory	compulsory
Financial Accounting	compulsory	compulsory	compulsory	compulsory
Management Accounting	compulsory	compulsory	compulsory	compulsory
Accounting Theory	compulsory	optional	optional	optional
Finance	optional	compulsory	compulsory	optional
Auditing	optional	optional	optional	compulsory
Commercial Law	optional	optional	optional	optional
Economics	optional	optional	optional	optional
Quantitative Methods	optional	optional	optional	optional
Information Systems Design and Development	optional	optional	optional	optional
Taxation Law	optional	optional	optional	optional
Company Law	optional	optional	optional	optional

· IELTS Academic Test Report Form (TRF) Number to show you have a band score of at least seven (7) on each of the four (4) components – speaking, reading, listening and writing.

Please contact us if you are an Accountant and have not as yet lodged your skills assessment.

New national body called the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) to assess Nurses from 1 July 2010

2010-04-23T00:04:00.000+10:00

Registration of nurses will soon be through a new national body called the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). The NMBA has indicated in their proposal to the Australian Health Workforce Ministerial Council that they recommend have the English language requirement set at a minimum of 7 in all 4 bands of the Academic IELTS for registration. However good news for many is that if your secondary school studies were conducted in English, you may qualify for a waiver of this requirement. These proposals have not yet been finalised and we will keep you informed as to when they are.

NEW Skilled occupation list is on the way!

2010-04-22T15:54:00.001+10:00

It’s only a week or so until we see the NEW Skilled Occupation List (SOL). Its release will certainly come as a relief to many. However the news may not be great for others. Skills Australia, which is the organisation that has been given the responsibility of forming the new SOL and presenting it to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) for approval in a recent report listed the 'SKILLS WE NEED'. We expect most of these to be included in the new SOL. However please note that this is NOT the final SOL, and THERE IS NO GUARANTEE THAT ANY OF THESE OCCUPATIONS WILL APPEAR ON THE NEW SKILLED OCCUPATION LIST WHEN IT IS FORMALLY ANNOUNCED LATER IN APRIL 2010.

Accountants

Actuaries

Air transport professionals

Aircraft maintenance engineers

Architects and landscape architects

Auditors

Automotive electricians

Bricklaters and stonemasons

Carpenters and joiners

Chemical and materials engineers

Childcare centre managers

Civil engineering draftspersons and technicians

Computer systems analysts

Construction managers

Dental hygienists, technicians and therapists

Electronics trades workers

Engineering managers

Fire and emergency workers

Health and welfare services managers

Industrial, mechanical and production engineers

Judicial and other legal professionals

Lawyers

Marine transport professionals

Mining engineers

Motor mechanics

Optometerists and orhoptists

Other education managers

Other medical practitioners

Pharmacists

Police

Psychologists

Registered nurses

School principals and teachers

Sign writers

Social workers

Software and applications programmers

Surgeons

Teachers of English to speakers of other languages

Telecommunications and electrical engineers

Telecommunications technical specialists

Urban and regional planners

Veterinarians

Wood machinists and other wood trades workers

Changes to the Business Skills visa program, have been announced by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship.

2010-04-19T17:01:00.001+10:00

The following amendments will be implemented by DIAC on 19 April 2010 and will apply to new applications lodged on or after 19 April 2010. Applications lodged with DIAC before this date will not be affected by the amendments.

The Amendments include an increase in the minimum net business and personal assets required for the 163 and 164 provisional Business Skills visas. The increase will be from A$250 000 to A$500 000 in addition to assets that the specific State/Territory government sponsor considers adequate to settle in Australia.

The ownership requirement of all business owner visas (including subclass 132 and 892) will be increased from 10% to:

· 51% where the business turnover is less than A$400 000;

· 30% where the business turnover is A$400 000 or more; or

· 10% where the business is a publicly listed company.

The senior manager provision will be removed from the Subclass 163 visa.

Please contact us to discuss how these changes may impact your application.

Australian skilled migration program under revision

2010-04-19T10:10:00.001+10:00

Australia is currently adapting their general skilled migration program to ensure it is more responsive to the nation’s future skill needs. These reforms plan on delivering a demand rather than a supply driven skilled migration program that meets the demands of the economy in sectors and regions where there are shortages of highly skilled workers, such as healthcare, engineering and mining.

Changes include the introduction of a NEW greatly reduced Skilled Occupations List, as well as, a complete revision of the Points test, of which potential migrants must pass to ensure eligibility. The Australian government’s attitude is one of favouring Employer and State Nominated pathways, so in time we do not foresee visa requirements relaxing for skilled migration. Andrew Heathcote of Migrate2oz therefore advises “During a period of significant change and uncertainty we certainly believe that you will be better served by placing your matter in the hands of a registered migration agent who gives you sound and meaningful advice.” He goes on to advise that if you are contemplating migration, do not procrastinate as it may cost you in the long run!

Making sense of the changes to GSM program

2010-04-18T00:31:00.000+10:00

The Critical Skills List is to be revoked and replaced with a new Skilled Occupations List which will become effective from the middle of 2010. This NEW SOL will be available for review in the coming weeks (by the 30 April 2010) with priority processing arrangements for applications with nominated occupations on the current CSL continuing until they are reviewed in Mid 2010.

Over the coming months we also expect to see a revised points test. At this stage it is uncertain what these changes will be. The revised test could possibly include some of the following changes that the Minister of Immigration recently mentioned. Changes such as:

· should some occupations warrant more points than others?

· are the points for age properly calibrated?

· should points be awarded for qualifications acquired overseas from prestigious universities?

· are sufficient points awarded for experience?

· should more points be awarded for excellence in English?

As mentioned the NEW Skilled Occupations List (SOL) is to be reviewed by Skills Australia, supposedly to “… deliver a General Skilled Migration (GSM) Program more focused on high-value skills across the professions and trades.”

So what does this mean for you? – If you have an occupation on the present SOL you can still apply for a general skilled visa, so long as the application is lodged before the NEW SOL comes into effect in "mid-2010" We expect this to be 1 July 2010. Any skilled migration application that is lodged prior to the introduction of the new Skilled Occupation List in mid-2010 will be assessed with reference to requirements current at the time the application is lodged with the Department of Immigration.

IMPORTANT!!! This gives you another 6 weeks to get things moving, after 30 June 2010 you will be subject to the NEW SOL and NEW Points test. The detail of which we do not know but will update you once available. This may not be good news for all.

We have always been strong proponents of the approach that if you qualify for a visa and are intending to migrate to Australia do so while a visa pathway exists.

The current government’s attitude to the migration program is one of favouring Employer and State Nominated pathways, so in time we do not foresee visa requirements relaxing for skilled migration.

We therefore recommend that those who wish to lodge a general skilled visa should factor into their considerations the likelihood that from the middle of 2010 the barriers will be higher than they are presently - possibly meaning that they will not be able to apply once the NEW SOL is introduced.

Do not delay starting your General Skilled Visa application. Procrastination may cost you in the long run! Please contact us if you are in doubt.

General Skilled Migration Program to be cut back

2009-03-16T11:08:00.000+11:00

Today 16/3/2009 the Minister of Immigration Chris Evans announced immediate reductions to Australia's skilled migration program this is in response to the economic slowdown. The skilled program for the current year (ending 30 June 2009) is to be cut by 18,500, from a planned total of 133,500 to 115,000.

Although the detail of how this is to carried out is still not known, we believe that this is going to be achieved by the removal of certain trade skills from the Critical Skills List. The Critical Skills list was introduced from January 2009 in order to facilitate the priority processing of applications for skilled visas.

At Migrate2oz we continue to encourage individuals to consider obtaining State Sponsorship as this will enable your application to be treated with priority.

If you are considering lodging a skilled migration application or have already lodged an application and require the services of a migration agent please contact us for an assessment of your circumstances.

Some web links regarding this news:-

www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/03/16/2516766.htm

http://www.theage.com.au/national/sk...0315-8yyp.html

http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au...31-601,00.html

http://www.smh.com.au/national/immig...0315-8yy2.html

Critical Skills List to change priority of visa processing

2009-01-12T10:02:00.001+11:00

The Minister of Immigration introduced a Critical Skills List (CSL). This list focuses on medical and key IT professionals, engineers and construction trades. The idea behind the CSL is to change the order of processing of General Skilled Applications undecided after 1st January 2009 (that is all permanent points tested applications under skilled migration - 880,881,882,885,886,175,176 etc)

Although the total program numbers wont be cut at this stage, the place you fit in the priority list will determine how long it may take. In short the new priority order (number 1 being the quickest) will be ..

1. Employer sponsored visas

2. State or territory Government sponsored visas

3. Occupations on the critical skills list

4. Occupations on the Migration Occupations in Demand List

5. All other valid applications

The CSL is in addition to the current MODL list and mean that applicants who have nominated an occupation on the CSL can expect much speedier processing. Although the actual timelines are still uncertain it is possible that those applicants who are in priority 5 can expect a delay in the processing of their visas.

Changes to the processing of provisional visas (ie 475,487 etc). They will be done in the following order :

1. State or territory sponsorship

2. Family sponsorship where the applicant’s occupation is listed on the CSL

3. And then all other applications.

Do these changes apply to applications lodged before 1 January 2008? It would seem so. In "2008-09 Migration Program Changes Frequently asked questions" it states in Question 22: What will happen to those applications which are in the final stages of processing and where the department has requested applicants to provide health and character clearances? Those applications which are currently close to being finalised, will be finalised by the department, subject to health and character clearances."

The links to the changes are as follows:-
http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/general-ski...whats-new.htm#j (link to DIAC announcement)
http://www.minister.immi.gov.au/media/medi...ion-program.pdf (Ministers Full Statement)
http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/general-ski...ion/pdf/faq.pdf (Frequently Asked Questions on the NEW changes)
http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/general-ski...skills-list.pdf (Critical Skills List)
http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/general-ski...s-in-demand.htm (MODL List)

Forex alloawances for South Africans

2008-10-31T21:38:00.000+11:00

Earlier the year the foreign exchange control requirements for South Africans were amended.

What is still not widely appreciated is that South African residents (natural persons), who are over the age of 18 years may be permitted to avail of a single allowance within an overall limit of R500 000 per individual per calendar year, without the requirement to obtain a tax clearance certificate, to cover the following discretionary allowances –

• monetary gifts and loans;

• donations to missionaries;

• maintenance transfer;

• travel allowance;

This discretionary allowance is in addition to the existing R2 million individual foreign capital allowance. To ensure accurate and comprehensive reporting of all data and cross border transactions, applicants must provide accurate information to enable the authorised dealers to correctly report the purpose of the transaction via the reporting system.

Australian Migration - three things to consider

2008-10-16T21:36:00.001+11:00

Australia’s Immigration policy is cornerstone to the economic growth and future success of the country. At a time when economic concerns engulf our attention one needs to consider the impact on this policy. What is known is that the Australian Government is proactive and the policy is dynamic and this means that changes can occur relatively quickly.

At present Australia is facing a significant skills shortage. The number of skilled migrants for 2008/09 is at an all time high and overall the forecast number of migrants for the period is 190300, up 20% over the previous year. However Prime Minister Rudd has gone on record stating that advice would be sought where skilled workers are needed and that immigration is not a one-size-fits-all across the country.

Therefore as migration agents we urge our clients that if they qualify for a visa today that they do not procrastinate and they must lodge the application as soon as is practically possible, as they simply may not have that opportunity tomorrow.

Skilled migrants comprise the bulk of the program i.e. 133000 with South Africans comprising approximately 3.5% of permanent additions (Dec 2007). Permanent additions comprise of those persons who while already in Australia on a temporary basis are granted permanent residence status and those persons who arrive from overseas and are entitled to stay permanently in Australia.

Given that South Africans are willing to settle in Australia and the fact that they are held in fairly high regard in the work place, implies that they are a very attractive pool of talent. South Africans do however make active use of the temporary stream which allows them, once sponsored by an employer, to remain in Australia temporarily for up to four years. One point we believe that is not well communicated is the fact that this strategy of obtaining a temporary visa does not necessarily result in permanent residence. We therefore advocate that should an individual embark on this route that it is done so in conjunction with a well structured strategy for permanent residence. The process is stressful enough without having to put your family’s future at risk of being disrupted again should you fall out of favour with your employer, not to mention the cost and emotional upheaval of having to return.

As registered migration agents we see the full gambit of individuals planning a new future down-under and by the time someone approaches us they have inevitably made their mind up. We really act as a facilitator in the process and ensure that the minefield of regulations and legal criteria are handled in the correct order and manner. There is no doubt that Australia has a highly complex and legally technical visa system which requires applications to be carefully prepared in order to succeed. Up to 50% of those who apply for a visa fail, this is mainly because they are refused, apply under the wrong visa class or pull out. A registered migration agent will ensure that your case is presented in the best way possible.

It would be fair to say that the reputation of the Australian migration industry has fallen under some scrutiny in recent years, particularly in regard to unregistered offshore agents and there are many of these agents operating in South Africa. South African’s are generally ignorant to the fact that they may be dealing with and are often being poorly advised and exploited by an unregistered agent who is not subject to any regulatory control or censure. Using an unregistered agent denies you the protection and peace of mind that your agent has passed the required character tests, complies with the MARA code of conduct (www.themara.com.au) and possesses the necessary immigration law qualifications. You also need to be sure as to whether your registered migration agent is the one in fact giving you the advice and you have reasonable access to the agent or are you being advised by an unregistered employee based in South Africa.

In summary, we therefore urge you to have a well structured migration plan that does not naively ignore the permanent residence aspect of migration. Should you decide to use an agent you use an agent that is registered with The Mara; and finally, if you qualify for an Australian visa, act now because the landscape may change tomorrow.

By Andrew Heathcote - Registered Migration Agent MARN 0850850

Minimum salary Levels and Occupations for 457 visa's

2008-08-04T08:54:00.001+10:00

According to the Department of Immigration (DIAC) from the 1st August minimum Salary Levels under Subclass 457 program are to increase.

The 457 Visa is the most commonly used program for employers to sponsor overseas workers to work in Australia on a temporary basis (3 months to 4 years). There are also special arrangements for employers in regional areas across Australia.

On 1 August 2008 a new Legislative Instrument (Gazette Notice) was issued, increasing the Minimum Salary Level (MSL) by 3.8 per cent.

This instrument applies not only to new sponsored worker visa applicants, but to all sponsored workers.

This means that the formula for calculating the MSL will apply to every sponsored worker who is paid in accordance with an MSL.

Refer to the attached PDF on the DIAC website for more details.

IELTS some very useful information

2008-07-17T23:21:00.004+10:00

We get many questions regarding the degree of difficulty of the IELTS exam. Obviously this is difficult to answer, as what one might find basic others might find somewhat challenging. There are many resources available on the web that you may find useful in your preparation. Here are two such videos I found on YouTube and there are many many others on sites such as Youtube which you may find of interest.

What is the latest on the $100,000 capital investment bonus points?

2008-07-16T09:25:00.000+10:00

Prior to 1 September 2007 GSM visa applicants could earn 5 bonus points if they deposited at least $100,000 in a designated security for a term of not less than 12 months. The NSW, Queensland and NT Treasury Corporations and the SA Government Financing Authority had been State and Territory authorities participating in these arrangements (the Western Australia Government withdrew from 1 July 2007).

Each of the participating States and Territories have notified the department of their withdrawal of support for the use of treasury bonds for this purpose. This means that no State or Territory will issue a security in which an investment is a ‘designated security’. There is no compulsion on States or Territories to participate in the scheme. Whether the State or Territory government authorities actually issue a security is ultimately a matter for them to determine.

The new visa arrangements for the GSM Program introduced from 1 September 2007 did not include the provisions for the lodgement of designated securities. This change in arrangements only affect visa applications lodged before 1 September 2007.

While a decision regarding theses visa applicants is still awaited by DIAC, DIAC has now put an FAQ in relation to the issue on its website. It can be found at: http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/general-skilled-migration/capital-investment-scheme-faqs.htm

Settling and relocation services

2008-07-14T12:00:00.002+10:00

Has your visa been granted and you are now ready to make the move. Settling-in in Australia can be daunting! Smooth Transitions may make the move just a little easier. Migrate2oz has established a relationship with Smooth Transitions and by registering for this FREE service, approved suppliers will contact you with quotes, many discounted from normal rates.
You are not tied into buying a service you may never use. It is your membership and as such, your resource site for 12 months. You are able to access all of the services once you have arrived in Australia and well into setting up your new life, just in case you forgot something before you get to Australia.

You can register and become a member for free.

When registering your Migrate2Oz referrer code is AUSNSWMA0003

Click to access settling and relocation
services

Services include:-

· Bank Accounts, Credit Cards and Home Loans
· Pensions Transfer
· Departure Flights and stop-overs
· International Removalists
· Employment and Job Readiness Consulting
· Education Assistance and Student Admissions
· Foreign Currency Transfers
· Health and General Insurances
· Settlement and Orientation Package
· Accommodation - short and long term
· Taxation and Accounting services
· Telecommunications - mobile and fixed phones, VoIP
· Internet services
· Real Estate and investment properties
· Pet relocations and quarantine
· Hire cars
· Business and franchise advice and assistance
· Financial Planning assistance

Foster's Australia's Famous Beer is not that big in Monza Italy

2008-07-11T15:14:00.001+10:00

New centres of excellence opened

2008-07-11T13:07:00.001+10:00

On 1 July 2008 the department of Immigration opened three (3) new centres of excellence to process:

• Subclass 457 – Business (Long Stay)

• Subclass 459 – Sponsored Business Visitor (Short Stay)

• Subclass 422 – Medical Practitioner applications with Australian business sponsors.

These centres are designed to improve client services by reducing processing times and developing areas of staff expertise.

The centres of excellence are located in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth. There will be a geographic split of responsibility for processing new applications. Where your application is processed will depend on where the sponsoring business is located. If the business has more than one location, the processing centre will depend on where the business’s head office is located.

Hopefully this will see the processing times for these visa classes improve.

Immigrants details to go online

2008-07-11T12:56:00.001+10:00

A project that aims to produce an online catalogue of the millions of people who have immigrated to Australia has been launched in Canberra.

The Making Australia Home project was launched on Wednesday along with special citizenship ceremonies in Canberra and Brisbane, arranged to mark Constitution Day.

The National Archives has already digitised 74,000 items, providing online access to the details of many of the more than seven million people who have resettled in Australia since Federation.

The records contain details such as the name of the person who migrated, when they migrated and their place of birth, including those who resettled under assisted passage arrangements and post-war displaced person schemes.

Cabinet Secretary Senator John Faulkner, who launched the project, said much of the story of Australia's migration history, from a government perspective, is told in the records held by the National Archives.

That rich history would now be accessible to all Australians, Senator Faulkner said.

"The records reflect changing attitudes towards migration and the evolving patterns of population movements over the 20th Century," he said.

"They are of immense historical and personal significance."

The migration records catalogued to date can be found on the National Archives website at www.naa.gov.au .

Source: AAP

Minimum Salary Level increase for 457 visa holders

2008-07-11T12:42:00.001+10:00

The Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, today announced on Friday, 23 May 2008 that Minimum Salary Levels (MSLs) for temporary skilled overseas workers will increase by 3.8 per cent from 1 August 2008.

The change will increase the current standard MSL from $41,850 to $43,440 per annum. For ICT professionals, the MSL will rise to $59,480 from $57,300. In regional areas, the MSL will rise to $39,100 (from $37,665) and $53,530 (from $51,570) for ICT professionals.

There are currently more than 68,000 primary 457 visa holders working in Australia, most of whom are professional employees on incomes higher than the MSL.

http://www.minister.immi.gov.au/media/media-releases/2008/ce08050.htm