The Australian government has announced its planning levels for the 2022-2023 Migration Program, which will consist of 160,000 places. Of these, two-thirds will be allocated to the Skills Stream, and one-third will be allocated to the Family Stream.
The Migration Program was designed to help Australia deal with its critical workforce shortages by supporting the country’s economic recovery from COVID-19 and reuniting Australians with their family members.
As a result, foreign nationals will find it easier to enter the country for work, residency and a path to citizenship.
The situation
The Australian Government has announced that the planning levels for its Migration Program will be 160,000 places in 2022-2023.
Skills Visa Stream
The Skills Visa stream is intended to help the Australian economy by filling labor shortages and improving skills in the workforce. It consists of allocations for employer-sponsored skilled workers, skilled independent workers, regional visas that allow areas to nominate people they need, state/territory nominations, business innovation visas and investment visas.
Allocation
The government has allocated 109,900 places to the Skills Stream, a larger number than in 2021-2022.
Increased places.
This year, the number of regional work visas has doubled from 2021-22 levels to incentivize foreign nationals to settle outside major capitals in Australia. The number of state and territory nominated categories have been increased significantly to allow jurisdictions the flexibility to respond to their unique labor needs.
Emphasis on skilled independent visas.
To address the post-pandemic skills shortage in Australia, the government has introduced a new visa category that allows foreign nationals to obtain permanent residence without employer sponsorship if they meet a set of criteria (allocated based on age, English language skills, education and employment history).
Family Visa Stream
The Family Visa Stream allows family members to reunite with their loved ones in Australia, and provides them with pathways to citizenship. Allocations are granted for partners, parents, children, and other family members.
Allocation
The Australian government has allocated 50,000 places to the Family Stream of its immigration program, reflecting a strong commitment to reunite families.
Demand-driven partner visas.
Australia has decided that it will grant more partner visas on a demand-driven basis and will no longer be subject to a ceiling. It will also allow Australia to grow its population and enhance social cohesion outcomes.
Impact
Foreign nationals will discover that they have a greater number of opportunities to work, live and be granted citizenship in the country.
Background
Migration Program.
A Migration Program is determined each year after consultation with state and territory governments and representatives of various industries.
Skills shortage.
To address the post-pandemic skills shortage in Australia, the government has increased the number of places in the Skills Stream and provided new permanent residence pathways and extended visa validities.
In 2022-2023, the Minister for Immigration and Multicultural Affairs will be able to adjust the composition of the Skill stream if changing economic conditions merit it.
What does this mean to Employers?
Recent changes to the regulation have made it possible for employers in Australia to find a solution for their staff shortage.
Are you looking to hire an overseas candidate or have you found an overseas candidate that might be a good fit for you?
Our parent company, Australia Migration Services, is experienced in all visa-related matters and has processed numerous employer-sponsored visas for candidates and employers alike.
To best help you, we advise you to speak with one of our MARA registered consultants. They will provide a clear and step-by-step explanation of pathways for sponsoring your ideal candidate.
If you have queries relating to the above, or need urgent assistance, please call us on 03 9092 1688 or email us at info@aabd.com.com.au.
