Australia is looking for more Skilled Workers

As an immediate measure, the Australian Government has announced that the Skilled Migration program will be increased by 6,000 places in 2007-08.

The increase will be made up of permanent employer sponsored visas and General Skilled Migration visas. The General Skilled Migration program selects people with the tight skills and qualifications to work in industries where labour is in demand.

The additional 6,000 places will bring to 108,500 the total number of permanent visas granted under the Skill Stream of the migration program in 2007-08.

High demand categories

Child Care Coordinator, Accountant, Computer Professional, Engineers, Dentist, Chef, Hairdresser, Auto Mechanics, Cooks, A/C Mechanics - please check with us for the complete list.

Work Experience Skill Pathway D removed from UAC

On 4 September TRA removed Pathway D from the Uniform Assessment Criteria (UAC) until further notice. Until further notice TRA will no longer accept applications that predominantly rely on evidence of work experience and would normally be assessed under Skill Pathway D of the UAC. TRA require applicants to have formal training, Qualifications and work experience for any future skills assessments.

Offshore assessment service update

The VETASSESS consortium will conduct the offshore practical assessments / technical interviews for the residents of Sri Lanka, the United Kingdom, South Africa and the Philippines in one of the following trade occupations:

General electrician, general plumber, refrigeration and air-conditioning mechanic, motor mechanic, carpenter and joiner, carpenter, joiner, electrical powerline tradesperson, cable jointer & bricklayer

Changes to the General Skilled Migration Programme

Changes to the General Skilled Migration programme (GSM) were introduced on 1 September 2007. Changes include:

• increasing the English language threshold for GSM visa applicants
• rewarding GSM visa applicants who have very good English language proficiency
• greater emphasis on skilled work experience
• introduction of a new temporary work visa for graduates

Please contact AUSME to see how these changes could affect you and how AUSME can assist you to be eligible to Migrate to Australia in-line with the new regulation changes.