The Albanese government has announced plans to radically simplify Australia's migration by introducing a three-tiered assessment system designed to cut red tape and reduce delays to permanent residency. The changes will focus on improving the integrity of the visa system, shifting international student visas away from a de facto work visa towards more skilled graduates, and overhauling the points system for permanent migration to benefit those able to make the greatest contribution to Australia.
The government has accepted the recommendation of a new temporary skilled migration income threshold for the second tier and will work with states, business, unions, and civil society to determine the pay thresholds. The review proposes allowing temporary migrant workers up to six months after leaving their current job within which they can find work with another employer in the same sector or type of work.
Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neil said that these major changes aim at covering permanent residency options for temporary visa holders while also bringing in skilled migrants who can boost Australia's economy. In addition, controversial labour market testing rules requiring jobs being advertised locally before employers consider foreign applicants will be scrapped as part of this overhaul.
O'Neil warned that "the system was not meeting either current or future needs," adding that wage exploitation among temporary migrant workers is rife and must be addressed urgently. Opposition Home Affairs spokesman James Paterson acknowledged that "the size, composition and timing of migration intake are legitimate areas for public debate." Labor MP Peter Khalil criticized Australia's existing immigration setup as an "unjust, slow and unplanned" process.
The review considered 483 public submissions from individuals, corporations, unions, think tanks and other interested parties during its analysis phase. This comprehensive approach demonstrates how crucial reforming immigration policies is for ensuring economic growth while providing opportunities for qualified immigrants seeking better lives in Australia.
Overall, these proposed simplifications have been met with both support from those advocating a more efficient migration system and concerns from those who believe that further discussion is necessary to determine the best course of action for Australia's future. The Albanese government remains committed to striking a balance between meeting the needs of local citizens and attracting skilled migrants to contribute positively to their society.