Government Allocates $18.3 Million to reform Migration System- FEDERAL BUDGET 2024/2025
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in Australia Immigration News, Australian Migration Strategy & Policy, Skilled Migration News
In a bid to drive economic prosperity and enhance the integrity of Australia’s migration system, the Government has unveiled comprehensive reforms aimed at safeguarding migrant workers, targeting talented individuals, and streamlining visa processes. These measures reflect a commitment to fostering innovation, protecting vulnerable workers, and ensuring the nation’s continued growth and success.
The Australian government allocates $18.3 million over four years (starting from 2024-25) for migration system reforms.
1. Information and Education Activities
A significant investment of $15.0 million over three years will be allocated towards information and education initiatives. These efforts aim to empower migrant workers with accurate knowledge about workplace safeguards, protections, and compliance measures under migration laws.
By equipping migrants with essential information, the Government seeks to enhance workplace rights and prevent exploitation.
2. Data Matching Pilot
To combat exploitation and abuse within the labour market and migration system, a data-matching pilot will be conducted between the Department of Home Affairs and the Australian Taxation Office.
With $1.9 million allocated for this purpose in 2024–25, the pilot aims to identify discrepancies in income and employment data, enabling authorities to take targeted action against offenders.
3. Introduction of National Innovation Visa:
A new National Innovation visa will be implemented, replacing the existing Global Talent visa (subclass 858) from late 2024. This visa will target exceptionally talented migrants who possess the skills to drive growth in sectors deemed of national importance.
The closure of the Business Innovation and Investment visa program (BIIP) will accompany this change, with refunds provided to affected applicants from September 2024.
4. Reduction in Work Experience Requirement for the Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) visa
Effective from 23 November 2024, the work experience requirement for the Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) visa will be reduced from two years to one year for all applicants. This adjustment aims to streamline visa processes and facilitate access to skilled labour, contributing to economic growth and innovation.
5. $100 Million to Strengthen Department of Home Affairs Operations
Additionally, The Australian Government has allocated $100 million to the Department of Home Affairs to support Australian Border Force operations, immigration compliance efforts, and critical system maintenance.
Expected Impact:
While these reforms are anticipated to decrease receipts by $155.0 million over four years, primarily due to the closure of the Business Innovation and Investment visa program, the long-term benefits are significant. By prioritizing the protection of migrant workers, attracting top talent, and simplifying visa requirements, Australia is poised to strengthen its position as a global leader in innovation and economic prosperity.
Read here for more updates on the 2024-25 Budget!
[…] investment of $18.3 million over four years will be made to further reform Australia’s migration system. This includes funding for information and education activities to empower migrant workers with […]