In 2022-23, the Federal government will increase permanent skilled visas by more than 30% and plan to offer 109,900 skills visas. This is a welcome return after last year’s pandemic levels.
The biggest change with these new numbers are Independent Skills Visa (189) which have been allotted 16,652 places which is a 156% increase. The second notable increase is in allocation for the number of Regional invitations (494 and 491). The federal government continues to focus on regional migration strategies including new DAMA opportunities. Talent and Business visas saw a reduction.
In addition, occupation lists have been reviewed and updated in July-September 2022 to reflect changes in Australia’s labour market, based on advice from the National Skills Commission.
The turn around after Covid and a different economy
The Federal Government reduced the amount of visas available last year because it was being cautious and didn’t understand what would happen with Covid. They were cautious.
The good news is that we’ve seen some regions in Australia fare better than expected with unemployment rates not increasing as quickly. This has allowed the Federal government to allocate more to Skilled Migration.
Will the occupation lists change?
It has been speculated, based on analysis of the reports published by The National Skills commission, we might see a renewed focus on some trades (especially in manufacturing), Natural and physical scientists and potentially some community and personal service workers.
There might be a removal of some telecommunications technician occupations for the MLTSSL. We can expect that occupations such as accounting, engineering, information technology, health, psychology, and key trades remain on the list.
Don’t expect dramatic changes…
What is means for you
This is a great opportunity for skilled workers that are currently living in Australia. The new budget will allow states and regions to offer more migration opportunities, which will lead more along the path of becoming permanent residents or even citizens!
It’s been somewhat difficult over recent years but with recent concessions and these extra allocations it presents more renewed opportunities!! If you are able to complete a skills assessment then I recommend that you do this as soon as possible to increase your chances for skilled migration in the coming year.
If you have any questions regarding this, then please feel free to contact us via email contact@123migrationagent.com.au. And happy to respond to any questions you have!
References:
2022-23 Budget supports skilled migration to drive a stronger future
https://minister.homeaffairs.gov.au/AlexHawke/Pages/2022-23-budget-release.aspx
Migration Program planning levels
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/migration-program-planning-levels
