Yesterday, the government announced the Budget for 2017-18 and some of the changes will directly affect the current immigration program.
Increase of the Visa Application changes (VAC)
From 01 July 2017, Visa application fees will increase in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Check the full list of VAC increases here.
Temporary Skills Shortage visas
From March 2018, Temporary 457 Work (Skilled) visa will be abolished and replacement with a new Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS).
Read more about the 457 visa replacement here.
Training Benchmarks – Skilling Australians Fund Levy
This levy will replace the current training benchmarks for employers sponsoring workers on Subclass 457 and permanent Employer Nomination Scheme Subclass 186 visa
| Business Turnover | Upfront Contribution | One-off payment |
| Less $10 million p.a. | $1,200 per visa, per year for each employee on TSS |
a one-off payment of $3,000 for each employee being sponsored for a permanent Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa or a permanent Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 187) visa |
| $10 million p.a. or more | $1,800 per visa, per year for each employee on TSS |
a one-off payment of $5,000 for each employee being sponsored for a permanent Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa or a permanent Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 187) visa |
Temporary Sponsored Parent visa
This visa will allow the temporary stay of sponsored parents in Australia for periods of up to three or five years. The visa may be renewed from outside Australia to allow a cumulative stay of up to ten years. It will be introduced in November 2017 with 15,000 visas expected to be made available annually.
How we can help
If you would like advice on your situation understanding how the budget changes will affect you, please Contact us or call +61 2 9262 4707. Our initial consultation is free of charge.
Sources:
- MIA Notice No. 26: 9 May 2017 https://www.mia.org.au/communications/id/2442/idString/cbflqj2