Australia

29 May 2017
Sticky Post By Posted in NYCBNG, USA-Australia Permalink

The Australia-United States Free Trade Agreement – Exporting goods to Australia

Sticky Post By On May 29, 2017

After US President Donald Trump pulled out from the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP), a massive regional trade deal backed by Australia and other regional neighbours, US Vice President Mike Pence first official visit to Australia last month has confirmed the position of Australia and US as allies and trading partners.
The meeting between Mr Pence and Australian business leaders came to reassure Australia-United States Free Trade Agreement signed in 2005 stands, with further interested in eliminating any remaining trade barriers to help make trade smoother between the two countries. Read more

26 May 2017
Sticky Post By Posted in General Australia, NYCBNG, USA-Australia Permalink

Australia Inventions – Innovation and the Research Sector

Sticky Post By On May 26, 2017
From top inventions such as the black box flight recorder, Wi-Fi technology and Google Maps to children’s toys like the hula-hoop and everyday use items such as refrigerators and power boards, Australian inventions have improved the lives of millions of people worldwide.

Australia’s research institutions are among the best in the world with scientists collaborating in many fields throughout Australia and internationally. Despite recent changes to work visas, Australia maintains a commitment to attract the best and brightest researchers from all over the world. Read more

10 May 2017
Sticky Post By Posted in 457 Visa, Changes, Immigration News Permalink

2017-18 Budget Announcement and Immigration Changes

Sticky Post By On May 10, 2017

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. Read more

19 Apr 2017
Sticky Post By Posted in 457 Visa, Business Sponsorship, Changes, Immigration News Permalink

Replacement of temporary work visa 457: Understanding the Changes

Sticky Post By On April 19, 2017

On 18 April 2017, the Government announced the abolishment of the Temporary 457 Work (Skilled) visa and replacement with a new Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa in March 2018.

This new visa is part of the Government’s strategy to focus temporary and permanent employer sponsored skilled migration on skills shortages and gaps.

Immediate changes (from 19 April 2017)

  • 216 occupations were removed from the Consolidated Sponsored Occupation list (CSOL). The list was also renamed to Short-term Skilled Occupations List (STSOL). The maximum duration for 457 visas issued for occupations on this list will be 2 years. The STSOL will be updated every 6 months based on advice from the Department of Employment.
  • The Skilled Occupations List (SOL) was renamed the new Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). The maximum duration for 457 visas issued for occupations on this list remains 4 years.

Read more