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Have you ever wondered about Western Australia’s approach to welcoming skilled migrants? In the pursuit of a stronger workforce and an improved job market, the state has made significant changes to its migration program. But what do these changes mean for eligible applicants? Let’s dive into the details.
01. The 2023-24 Skilled Migration State Nomination Program Opens Doors
In the 2022-23 fiscal year, Western Australia selected a total of 8,140 skilled migrants, filling its allocated visa quota. Now, the doors have swung wide open for eligible applicants to take part in the 2023-24 Skilled Migration State Nomination program, with invitation rounds set to begin shortly.
These changes were introduced by the WA government to simplify and expedite skilled migration processes. The State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP) focuses on prioritising skilled migrants already residing in the state and those from other states and overseas. This approach aims to cater to the state’s robust economy and job market.
According to Karen Ho, Director General of the Department of Training and Workforce Development (DTWD), Western Australia’s migration priorities align with the needs of key sectors and local businesses. While the Commonwealth Department of Home Affairs manages the overall migration program and visa processing, the SNMP allows the state government to direct skilled migration by the Commonwealth Government’s guidelines.
Subclass 190 and Subclass 491
Through the SNMP, eligible skilled migrants can be nominated for two types of visas: the Skilled Nominated visa (Subclass 190), a permanent visa, and the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (Subclass 491), a temporary visa that can lead to permanent residency under certain conditions.
02. 2022-23 Changes: Attracting Skilled Workers to WA
The 2022-23 migration program saw a series of temporary changes aimed at attracting skilled workers:
1. Fee Waiver: Waiving the $200 application fee.
2. Shorter Employment Requirement: Reducing the requirement for an employment contract from 12 months to six months.
3. Financial Flexibility: Eliminating the need for applicants to demonstrate sufficient funds.
4. English Language Requirements: Lowering additional English language requirements for professional and manager occupations.
5. Reduced Work Experience: Reducing work experience prerequisites to attract more skilled workers to WA.
03. What Are The Opportunities for Skilled Workers?
Over 100 occupations, including those in health, aviation, ICT, agriculture, primary industries, community services, environmental management, mining, urban planning, events, and engineering, were added to the state’s Skilled Migration Occupation List, reflecting a broad range of professions in high demand. These changes will carry forward into the 2023-24 program year.
Also Read : Public holidays in Western Australia for 2023
04. The Latest Amendments for 2023-24
In the latest amendments for 2023-24, the Western Australian government has introduced several new measures:
1. Building and Construction: Waiving the requirement for a six-month employment contract for visa Subclass 190 applicants in the building and construction trade.
2. Equal Ranking: Prioritising invitations for skilled workers in Western Australia, both residents and those from other parts of the country and overseas.
3. Critical Demand Industries: Focusing on industries with critical demand for skilled workers, including building and construction, health and medical, teaching, and tourism and hospitality.
05. What’s The Current Visa Processing Time?
While the state’s migration program becomes more competitive, the processing time for WA State nomination is currently 28 working days for decision-ready applications. However, with just 1,500 positions allocated for the Skilled Nominated visa (Subclass 190) and 850 spots for the Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491) visa in the 2023-24 fiscal year, Western Australia is working tirelessly to match its migration offerings with the high demand from skilled visa seekers.
The state government has also launched initiatives to support migrants in their settlement journey. Programs like the Skilled Migrant Employment Register and Migration WA website aim to connect skilled migrants with job opportunities and provide essential information.
06. The Skilled Migration Job Connect Program
Furthermore, the $4.25 million Skilled Migration Job Connect program offers financial support of up to $7,500 to skilled migrants for skills assessments, gap training, and meeting occupational licensing requirements, all aimed at helping newcomers secure employment matching their overseas qualifications and experience. The $11 million Construction Visa Subsidy Program targets visa subsidies to attract skilled workers to Western Australia’s construction industry.
Neha Singh, a migration expert, notes that Western Australia’s focus on critical demand occupations, including building and construction, medical, teaching, and tourism and hospitality, is a testament to its commitment to attracting skilled workers. However, the limited allocation of just 2,350 visa spots for the state’s ongoing migration program is a challenge for many prospective migrants.
CONCLUSION:
Western Australia continues to be an attractive destination for skilled migrants, but the competition is intensifying. As the state navigates through these changes, the future remains uncertain for those eagerly anticipating their place in the queue. Western Australia is evolving, but what awaits skilled migrants? Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving migration.
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