In this article Emigrate to Australia’s Greg Veal explains the new Ministerial Direction 105.
Australia is witnessing a shift in the landscape of skilled visa applications with the implementation of Ministerial Direction No.105 on December 15, 2023. This new move not only formalizes the Australian Government’s steadfast commitment to regional development but also marks a decisive step towards optimizing the efficiency of skilled visa processing.
To underline this commitment, the Australian Government has allocated a substantial $48.1 million in the 2023-24 Budget. As a result this underscores Government’s dedication to providing world-class immigration services. Indeed, the funds will refine and expedite various visa programmes, further unlocking opportunities for skilled professionals and businesses.
Ministerial Direction No.105 specifically targets the streamlining of visa processing for businesses in regional Australia sponsoring skilled workers. The directive prioritizes applications for employer-sponsored visas in regional occupations, with a particular focus on key visas such as the Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482), Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186), and Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 494). These visas play a pivotal role in addressing identified skill shortages and contributing to the growth of regional Australia.
While the directive maintains a continued emphasis on prioritizing applications in the healthcare and education sectors, it acknowledges that this strategic move may impact processing times. Nevertheless, it reinforces the government’s unwavering commitment to addressing critical needs in these essential sectors.
Sponsors with Accredited Status continue to be in the spotlight, with their applications receiving top priority. This aligns with the government’s vision of a modernized accredited sponsorship program, with a specific focus on start-ups that have secured venture capital funding.
A notable policy shift is the cessation of prioritizing offshore permanent visa applications over onshore applications. This decision aligns with the government’s dedication to providing pathways to permanent residence while simultaneously streamlining processes, ensuring accessibility and efficiency for applicants.
In a bid to enhance overall efficiency, the new Ministerial Direction eliminates the priority for eligible passport holders, including Hong Kong nationals and British National Overseas. This decision aims to further streamline measures, optimising the visa processing system for all applicants.
The comprehensive overhaul of the visa processing system under Ministerial Direction No.105 signifies a monumental change. Now, it both supports regional development and addresses critical skill shortages. However it also provides a more accessible pathway to permanent residence. As the government continues to invest in the immigration service, these changes reaffirm Australia’s position as a welcoming destination for skilled professionals and businesses eager to contribute to the nation’s growth.
Looking ahead, the future is promising for those seeking skilled applications for Australian migration. With streamlined processes and prioritized pathways awaiting skilled individuals and their sponsoring businesses, Emigrate-to-Australia eagerly anticipates assisting its clients with seamless applications. For more information, please contact registered MIRA Agent and Head of Emigrate to Australia’s Greg Veal at 020 7427 5975. Greg.Veal@taylorhampton.co.uk. Emigrate to Australia is part of Taylor Hampton Solicitors, regulated by the SRA.