As with every new financial year, the government has implemented several changes, effective today, 1 July 2024, and the Department of Home Affairs (DOHA) is no exception. These updates were announced as part of Australia’s broader Migration Strategy, which aims to enhance productivity and address worker exploitation within the immigration sector.
Area | Detail of Change |
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Enhancements for Visa Holders Finding a New Sponsor | These changes are designed to support the labour market mobility of temporary migrants under visas such as Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482), the legacy Temporary Work (Skilled) visa (subclass 457), and Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (provisional) visa (subclass 494). Under the new provisions, visa holders who cease working with their sponsoring employer will have extended periods: – Up to 180 days at a time, or – A maximum of 365 days across the entire visa grant period, to find a new sponsor, apply for a different visa, or arrange to depart Australia. During this transition period, visa holders can work for other employers, including in occupations not listed in their most recent sponsorship nomination, prior to a new nomination being approved. |
Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) Adjustment | The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) will rise to $73,150 (plus superannuation) annually from the current $70,000. This adjustment will affect new nomination applications, requiring them to meet the revised TSMIT or the prevailing market salary rate, whichever is higher. Labour Market Testing (LMT) for nominations submitted after this date must demonstrate compliance with the updated TSMIT amount. |
DOHA Fees Increase | DOHA has adjusted its fees in line with the forecast Consumer Price Index (CPI) (2.75%) and rounded to the nearest $5. For more information on DOHA fees please click here. |
The Superannuation Guarantee (SG) Increases. | The SG will increase from 11% to 11.5%. This increase also applies to Temporary Skill Shortage (Subclass 482) visa holders. Primary sponsored Temporary Skill Shortage (Subclass 482) visa holders must be paid at least the guaranteed annual earnings stated in the most recent nomination approval or the market rate, whichever is higher. |
Working Holiday Maker program | Under the new arrangements, UK passport holders will be able to be granted up to three Working Holiday (Sc 417) visas without having to meet any specified work requirements from 1 July 2024. Republic of Philippines passport holders will be eligible to apply for a Work and Holiday (Sc 462) visa. |
Onshore visa hopping | Visitors and temporary graduate visa holders will no longer be able to apply for student visas while in Australia. This change is designed to encourage temporary graduate visa holders to either secure skilled jobs or leave the country. Individuals with skills, may qualify for other visa options better suited for skilled migration. If this applies to you, contact us to discuss your options. |
For detailed information on these updates and their implications for you or your organisation, please visit the Department of Home Affairs website or contact us directly with any questions.
We’re here to help you navigate these changes and understand how they may impact your visa applications or sponsorship obligations.