Playfair

28/08/2024

‼️ IMPORTANT UPDATE: Australia Introduces International Student Cap from 2025 🇦🇺

The Australian government has announced a new cap on international student enrolments starting in 2025.

📍 145,000 places will be available at public universities.
📍 95,000 commencements will be allowed in the Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector.
📍 30,000 places will be allocated to other universities and education providers.

This policy is part of Australia’s effort to manage the growing demand for education and ensure the sustainability of infrastructure, including housing, quality experience, and student services.

Further details on the cap for different universities and regions will be announced in a few weeks.

Follow PLAYFAIR to stay updated and plan for the future.

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27/08/2024

💥 Exciting news!💥

VETASSESS has just announced that they are working to significantly reduce the processing time for skills assessments for professional and non-trade occupations.

📍The processing time has been shortened to 8 to 10 weeks, down from the previous 10 to 15 weeks.

However, please note that the processing time may vary depending on the program and the submission of all required documents.

Contact PLAYFAIR for personalised advice and guidance on preparing a skills assessment application.

🇦🇺

09/07/2024

‼️ Employer-Sponsored Visa Updates - Important Changes‼️

IMPORTANT updates have come into effect on employer-sponsored visas since 1 July 2024. Below are the key changes:

📍TSMIT Increase:
The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) has increased from $70,000 to $73,150.

📍Visa Conditions Adjustments:

🔹 Changes to visa conditions 8107, 8607, and 8608 affect holders of the subclass 457 Temporary Work (Skilled) visa and subclass 482 Temporary Skills Shortage visa.
🔹 Visa holders who cease employment with their sponsoring employer will now have up to 180 consecutive days (an increase from the previous 60 days) to seek a new job, apply for a different visa or make arrangements to leave Australia.

📍 Strengthening Employer Compliance:

The Migration Amendment (Strengthening Employer Compliance) Act 2024 enhances employer compliance and protects temporary migrant workers from exploitation.

📍 FNQ DAMA Updates:

Under the FNQ DAMA, the skills assessing authority is changing from VETASSESS to ANMAC for Personal Care Assistants and Nursing Support Workers for new skills assessment requests made on or after 1 July 2024.

For more detailed information, contact PLAYFAIR to learn how these changes might affect your migration plan in Australia and set yourself up for success.

08/07/2024

‼️ Important Update for Visa Applicants for Australia ‼️

The Migration Amendment (Visa Application Charges) Regulations 2024 have introduced new changes that will impact the cost of visa applications starting from 1 July 2024.

📈 Annual Indexation of Visa Application Charges (VAC): The VAC has been adjusted to match the forecast Consumer Price Index (CPI) of 2.75%, rounded to the nearest $5.

📈 Significant Increases for Student Visas:

🔹 The Student (Subclass 500) visa application fee will increase from $710 to $1,600.
The Student Guardian (Subclass 590) visa application fee will adjust similarly.
🔹 For additional applicants, the visa application fee for applicants 18 years and older will increase from $530 to $1,190, and for those under 18 years old, from $175 to $390.

👉 No Change for Specific Visas

The VAC for the Pacific Engagement (Subclass 192) visa and secondary applicants for the Temporary Work (International Relations) (Subclass 403) visa in the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) stream remain unchanged.

Follow PLAYFAIR's page to stay updated on migration to Australia!

31/05/2024

📣 Raising the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold

Australia’s Home Affairs Department announced an increase of 4.5% of Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) from 70,000 AUD to 73,150, which will be applied from July 1, 2024.

This means that new nomination applications for subclass 482, 494, 186 and 187 from this date must meet the new TSMIT of $73,150 or the annual market salary rate, whichever is higher.

These requirements help to ensure that:
🔹 Employers pay overseas workers no less than an Australian worker who is in the same role at similar locations, that is, the 'annual market salary rate (AMSR)'
🔹 These visa programs are not used to undercut the Australian labour market

Keep up with Australian news on migration strategy and updates. PLAYFAIR offers individual/private consulting to map out and plan for your migration journey to Australia.

Although new skills in demand and requirements from Australia might be complex to navigate, our team is confident that our experience and expertise in the field will help you achieve the most fruitful outcomes.

22/05/2024

🇦🇺 Opportunities in Australia for Education Professionals! 🌟

Australia is seeking talented individuals to join its workforce. If you're looking for career development opportunities and want to live overseas, Australia might be a good fit for your consideration.

✈️ Skilled Migration Process for Teachers
- Independent Skilled Visa (subclass 189): For those who want to live and work permanently in Australia without state or territory sponsorship.
- State-Nominated Skilled Visa (subclass 190): For those sponsored by an Australian state or territory.
📝 Basic Requirements
- Educational Qualification: You must have a relevant academic degree recognised by the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL).
- Work Experience: At least two years of experience in the education field.
- English Proficiency: You must meet the required scores in English language tests like IELTS or PTE. A minimum score is usually needed for these tests. For instance, for IELTS, a score of at least 7.0 in each of the four components (listening, reading, writing, and speaking). For PTE, a score of around 65 in each communicative skill might be required.

However, each Australian state or territory could have additional requirements or specific scores to be met.

Start your journey today by contacting us for detailed consultation and support on your new path! 🎓✈️

17/05/2024

PLAYFAIR at UPGRAD GLOBAL STUDY PARTNERS ASSEMBLY

🎓🌏 We're thrilled to join the recent “Empowering Minds, Changing Lives” UpGrad Global Study Partners (GSP) Assembly, where experts worldwide convened to discuss key issues in higher education and student mobility.

🗣️ George Lombard, PLAYFAIR’s Special Counsel, presented at the assembly, providing an in-depth analysis of the latest trends and challenges in student visas and migration. His insights and expertise are invaluable for students planning to study abroad and institutions looking to support them.

🔍 The session addressed critical questions and offered strategies to overcome obstacles, ensuring students can achieve their dreams without borders.

Contact PLAYFAIR to learn more about how it affects your migration plan.

15/05/2024

BUDGET ANNOUNCEMENT - CHANGES TO MIGRATION

📢The Australian Government will set a cap for the 2024-2025 financial year migration plan at 185,000 applications. Of these, 132,200 applications were allocated to the skilled migration stream, further limiting opportunities to become permanent residents for those who fit Australia's long-term skills needs.

📢The immigration rate from foreigners is expected to halve to 260,000 by 2024-2025.

📢The number of international students coming to Australia will be limited, details to be determined in negotiations with universities The number of places for international students is being capped, the details to be determined in negotiations with universities.

📢 Working Holiday visa applicants from countries such as China, Vietnam and India will have to pay a draw fee of $25 AUD from the next financial year. This lottery will help reduce visa application processing time and manage the number of applicants.

📢 The Australian Government will launch a new visa called National Innovation, replacing the current Global Talent visa (subclass 858) from the end of 2024, to attract talented immigrants. excellent capabilities to promote growth in important national sectors. The Business Innovation and Investment visa program (BIIP) will end, with visa fee refunds offered from September 2024 for those who wish to withdraw their BIIP application. This resolution includes $51.4 million over 2024-25 for system changes needed to implement the new visa stream and close BIIP.

We will continue to update you with further information as it is announced.

26/04/2024

🇦🇺 NEW CHANGES ANNOUNCED TO THE TEMPORARY GRADUATE VISA PROGRAM

The Australian Government announced new changes in its recent Migration Strategy. They should take effect from 1 July 2024.

👉 Gradudate Work Stream will be renamed to the Post-Vocational Education Work stream:

🔑Some key changes included:

🧑The maximum eligible age for the visa stream will be reduced to 35 years or under. However, for Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders, the age limits will continue to be under 50 years.

🔖 Qualification: Applicants must hold an associate degree, diploma or trade qualifications closely related to their nominated occupation on the Medium and Long Term Strategic Skills List.

Other applicants with higher degrees will no longer be eligible for this stream.

🕰️ Stay period: Applicants may continue to stay up to 18 months, except Hong Kong or British National Overseas passport holders, who can stay up to 5 years.

👉 Post- Study Work stream will be renamed to the Post-Higher Education Work stream

🧑 The maximum eligible age for this stream will be reduced to 35 years or under, while Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders will be under 50 years old.

🕰️ The stay period will change to the following:
- Bachelor degree - up to 2 years
- Masters (Coursework and extended)- up to 2 years
- Masters (Research) and doctoral degree - up to 3 years

There are some differences in the stay period according to the country of origin of the passport holders.

Learn more about the changes and how they affect your migration plan in Australia by contacting PLAYFAIR.

09/04/2024

🇦🇺 IMPORTANT UPDATE: The extended 2-year post-study work (subclass 485) visa offered to international graduates with select degrees will no longer be available from mid-2024.

The Department of Home Affairs has noted that there is currently no set date for when the two-year extension will cease, but they will update their website when further information becomes available.

If you already hold a Post-Study Work subclass 485 visa, contact PLAYFAIR for assistance with an extension before mid-2024.

03/04/2024

‼️ IMPORTANT UPDATE

The NSW Government has just announced an important update to the nomination criteria of work requirements for the Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491) under Pathway 1.

Previously, applicants for Pathway 1 were required to have been living and working in a designated regional area of NSW for at least 12 months with a single regional NSW-based employer, among other requirements. Based on industry feedback at recent Regional Skilled Migration Seminars, this employment duration requirement has been reduced to 6 months.

That means more skilled workers will be eligible to apply for the Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491) under Pathway 1 and have contributed to the regional economy and communities for six months.

Other remaining criteria remain the same, including single regional NSW-based employer, roles in the skill occupation list, minimum salary and more.

To learn more about the update and how to apply, contact PLAYFAIR to plan your migration journey.

08/03/2024

MIGRATION UPDATE‼️

Check out the updated statistics on invitations left for subclass 190 and 491 in each state of Australia.

Plan your migration journey with PLAYFAIR today.

29/01/2024

‼️ IMPORTANT UPDATE: Changes to the COVID-19 Pandemic Event Visa Subclass 408

The Australian Government has announced that the visa subclass 408 will be closed to all applications on February 1, 2024.

If you are holding a 408 visa:
- You are eligible to apply for an extension if your visa is due to expire within the next 90 days
- There is an AUD 405 Visa Application Charge
- If your visa application is successful, you will receive a six-month visa

Contact PLAYFAIR to discuss your eligibility for a 408 visa extension and ensure a smooth and successful process.

28/12/2023

🎉 Happy New Year from PLAYFAIR to all our valued partners and friends! 🎉

✨ We are thrilled to bid farewell to the past year and embrace the boundless opportunities in 2024. ✨

🌟 The PlayFair team is committed to empowering you to take the next step in your personal and professional journeys. We are here to turn your aspirations into realities.

✨ As the saying goes, "The best way to predict the future is to create it." Let's make 2024 the year of challenges met, goals achieved, and dreams realised.

🥂 Cheers to a transformative new year! 🥂

27/12/2023

✨As we are about to embark on this new journey, we would love to celebrate the achievements and milestones we have accomplished together.

💌 We are grateful for your unwavering trust and collaboration, which have made our migration services successful.

🇦🇺 We are proud to have assisted countless individuals and families in their pursuit of a brighter future in Australia.

A HUGE thank you to our partners and friends!

24/12/2023

Merry Christmas from Playfair! 🎄✨

As the festive season unfolds, we extend our warmest wishes to you and your loved ones.

May this Christmas spark joy and inspiration as you journey towards your aspirations in Australia.

Here’s to embracing new adventures and creating unforgettable memories. Cheers to a season filled with hope, success, and happiness! 🌟

"

21/12/2023

📣 Exciting Update from Tasmania!

Tasmania has revised its Critical Roles List, adding 33 new job categories in various fields such as Graphic and Web Design, Education, IT, and Social Welfare Support.

However, the roles like Architects, Urban Planners, Medical Scientists, and Electrical Engineering Technicians have been removed.

You can read the complete list on the Tasmanian government’s website:

https://www.migration.tas.gov.au/skilled_migration/critical_roles_list_-_june_2022

21/12/2023

📣 Important Update: Changes to Visa 462 - Work and Holiday Visa

Starting January 1, 2024, in line with the new Migration Strategy, the Work and Holiday Visa (Visa 462) has undergone significant changes. Now, applicants can work for the same employer in Australia for more than six months without seeking permission under the following conditions:

- Work in different locations, not exceeding six months in any location.
- Engage in plant and animal cultivation anywhere in Australia.
- Work in specific industries like aged care, disability services, fishing, pearling, tree farming, felling, construction, and mining, but only in Northern Australia.

Please get in touch with PLAYFAIR to learn more and stay updated with the latest migration policy and visa guidelines regarding subclass 462!

13/12/2023

🥳 Congratulations to Rachel Po***ck and Gopika Aryad on officially becoming lawyers after their admission ceremony to receive their practising certificates!

The practising certificate is a significant milestone, marking the successful completion of rigorous legal education and training. It is a testament to Rachel and Gopika's hard work, dedication, and talent.

Rachel and Gopika are members of PLAYFAIR's team of dedicated solicitors, and we are even more confident in providing our clients with the highest quality legal consulting services throughout their migration journeys.

11/12/2023

IMPORTANT UPDATE on Australia’s Migration Strategy

The Australian government has announced significant changes to its 10-year migration strategy, focusing on attracting skilled workers and ensuring genuine students. Here's a breakdown of the key updates:

1. New Skills in Demand Visa:

The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa will be replaced by the "Skills in Demand" visa, and the “Specialist Skills Pathway” visa streamlining the process for skilled professionals in critical industries.

This change aims to address labour shortages, attract talent in areas like technology and energy and give workers more opportunities to move employers.

2. Updated English Language Requirements for Students:

Student visa applicants will now require higher English language scores:

- Graduate visa: 6.5 overall on the IELTS (up from 6.0)
- Student visa: 6.0 overall on the IELTS (up from 5.5)

These changes ensure students have the necessary language skills for academic success and integration in Australia.

3. New Scrutiny for Subsequent Student Visas:

International students applying for another student visa will undergo a "genuine student test”.

This test verifies alignment between the chosen course and the student's academic aspirations or career goals.

Stay tuned for further updates and insights into the Australian migration landscape!

29/11/2023

📣 Exciting News for Skilled Workers! 📣

The Department of Home Affairs has made it easier for temporary skilled workers to transition to permanent residency. Here's what you need to know:

✅ You can now apply for permanent visas under the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream or the Subclass 187 Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream as the required time holding a subclass 482 or 457 visa has been reduced to a minimum of 2 years (excluding unpaid leave) in the 3 years before applying for a subclass 186/187 visa.

✅ To be eligible, you must have:

- Worked in a position with your sponsoring employer for 2 out of the past 3 years while holding a subclass 482 or 457 visa.
Been employed full-time in Australia while holding your subclass 482 or 457 visa.

- Have your employer willing to offer ongoing employment.

These changes are effective immediately and will provide equitable access to permanent residency for temporary skilled workers.

Ready to make Australia your permanent home? Contact PLAYFAIR today to discuss your eligibility and application process.

17/08/2023

We've got two important updates to share:

📅 1st August 2023: Starting from this date, PNG passport holders can now submit a valid Subclass 462 visa application without the hassle of providing a Letter of Support. 🛂✅ Your journey to exciting international adventures just got a whole lot smoother!

📅 1st July 2023: This comes after the Australian Department of Home Affairs announcement that as of July 1st, 2023, Papua New Guinea has proudly joined the Working Holiday Maker (WHM) Program, becoming the newest partner country to join this incredible initiative. 🎉🙌 This means that up to 100 lucky PNG nationals now have the chance to travel to the stunning land down under, Australia, on a Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa.

So, whether you're dreaming of exploring the vast Australian landscapes, immersing yourself in its vibrant culture, or gaining valuable work experience while making unforgettable memories, these updates have got you covered!
Tag your fellow adventure-seekers, share the news, and start planning your journey today. 🌍✨

16/08/2023

📈 Breaking News: The Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, Andrew Giles, has just announced the number of humanitarian places in Australia will be increased from 17,875 to 20,000 per year! 🌟 This commitment comes at a crucial time, as our world faces an overwhelming humanitarian crisis, with over 100 million people forced to flee their homes and more than 2 million individuals in urgent need of resettlement worldwide.

📣 Minister Giles' press release underlines the significance of this decision in responding to the global call for compassion. The Albanese Labor Government is taking a strong stand, delivering a humanitarian program that not only provides refuge and safety to those in need but also paves the way for them to rebuild their lives in Australia. 🏡🤗

The recent press release echoes a commitment that resonates with compassion. As Australia steps up its humanitarian effort, we pledge to provide a safe haven for those seeking refuge, while bolstering our nation with diverse strengths and stories. Together, we're shaping a future that's built on empathy and understanding. 🌏🕊️

10/05/2023

Announcements relating to the Department of Home Affairs portfolio and the migration program that were included in last night's Federal Budget 2023-24.

If you believe any of these updates impact you, please contact our office via [email protected] or call our switch (02) 92 338 899.

08/05/2023

Some good news for the 482 holders and their PR options courtesy of the Migration Institute of Australia:

By the end of 2023, the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream of the Employer Nomination Scheme SC 186 will be amended.

- All Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) SC 482 visa holders will be eligible for ENS visas sponsored by their employers.

- Applicants will need to continue to work in the occupation nominated for their TSS visa(s).

- Sponsored visa holders will be eligible for ENS TRT after two years (down from three years) of sponsorship on a TSS by their employer.

- Applicants will need to meet all other nomination and visa requirements for the TRT stream of the Employer Nomination Scheme visa.

- The limit on Short Term stream TSS visa applications that can be made onshore has also been removed in the interim.

05/05/2023

MIGRATION ANNOUNCEMENT | Increase in 482 Minimum Salary

Following the recent announcement last week from The Minister for Home Affairs (Claire O’Neill MP,) employers may need to consider recruitment and employment strategies and timing to minimise any negative impact.

The announcement signifies an overhaul of the migration program, with one significant ramification for businesses being the minimum salary for 482 visa holders, the so-called TSMIT, increasing to A$70,000.

The press release indicates that the increase will take place from 1 July 2023 but it does not indicate how this increase is going to be phased in with respect to existing nomination or visa applications; nor what additional labour market testing may be required if any, and what might be the impact on existing Labour Agreements or new Labour Agreements in process.

The link to the relevant press release is at Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold Raised to $70,000 (homeaffairs.gov.au).


If PLAYFAIR can assist you with your recruitment and employment strategies and timing, please reach out to us now via email [email protected] or call our office switch on (02) 9233 8899.

30/01/2023

Immigration is a cornerstone of our Australian history and we are proud to play our part!

This interactive graphic illustrates how immigration policies and historical events – from the first world war to the Covid-19 pandemic – have changed the make-up of Australia since federation

13/01/2023

Ariarne Titmus’s father has called for mandatory swimming lessons in primary schools, saying “you shouldn’t go to high school unless you have a certificate to swim.” Thoughts? FULL STORY: https://bit.ly/3QpfXPa

01/01/2023

Best wishes 🧚‍♀️ to family and friends. Bring on 2023. Heading under the rope into the POW now.

29/11/2022

Receiving your retirement income in GBP leaves you at the mercy of currency fluctuations between GBP & AUD. We're here to help!

Request a UK pension entitlement report to understand your currency options in full.

https://www.devere-group.com/request-a-complimentary-uk-asset-review/