what’s news in immigration?

latest news 26 May 2008

Minimum salary level increase for 457 visa holders

23 May 2008 The Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, today announced that Minimum Salary Levels (MSLs) for temporary skilled overseas workers will increase by 3.8% from 1 August 2008. The increase is part of a package of reforms outlined in the Budget designed to improve the integrity of the temporary skilled migration (457 visa) program. more...

Labor promises massive increase in migration to lure workers

17 May 2008 Immigration Minister, Chris Evans, wants a major overhaul of the migrant program to boost numbers, promote unskilled as well as skilled applicants and gear Australia to the new global competition for workers. Next month, cabinet is expected to approve a pilot program for a guest worker scheme from the South Pacific. more...

An invitation to chaos

21 May 2008 Last week, the Rudd Labor Government announced a lift in permanent and temporary migration for 2008-09 to nearly 300,000, and Immigration Minister, Chris Evans, has indicated that some of the rules will be eased to ensure those numbers are met. Among the most important changes will be the easing of the need to have a knowledge of the English language, a shift in emphasis from skilled to unskilled workers and the decision to trial a pilot program based on the successful New Zealand model for guest workers from Pacific nations. more...

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