Global Talent pilot program now open
The Australian Government’s new visa scheme officially started last week, offering a new pathway for skilled workers into the country.
The Global Talent Scheme pilot program began on 1 July, with businesses now able to sponsor highly skilled and specialised workers.
Businesses can sponsor overseas workers where there are no suitable Australians available to fill the vacancies, during the 12-month pilot program.
The Global Talent Scheme consists of two components. Established businesses with an annual turnover of more than $4 million will be able to sponsor highly skilled and experienced individuals for positions with earnings above $180,000 into Australia.
Employers will need to demonstrate that they have been unable to source suitable individuals in the Australian labour market.
Workers sponsored under the scheme will have access to a Temporary Skills Shortage visa and permanent residence after three years.
Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, Alan Tudge said the new scheme complemented existing Temporary Skill Shortage visa arrangements by providing the flexibility to handle “high value, niche skills that can’t be obtained under the standard visa program”.
“A lot of the top talent is in fierce demand from companies all over the world. We want this talent to come to Australia, to support businesses here and create wealth for the nation.”
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AREEA will engage with the government to ensure all our members’ views are represented for the pilot phase of this new visa program. To provide input contact [email protected].
Skilled Migration Points Test increase from 1 July
In other skilled migration changes in effect from 1 July, the Skilled Migration Points Test has been restored from 65 points from 60 points.
The changes will apply to three unsponsored permanent residence visas:
- Subclass 189 – Independent skilled
- Subclass 190 – Skilled nominated visa
- Subclass 489 – Skilled regional (Provisional) visa
The Points Test was reviewed by the former Labor Government in 2011, setting the pass mark at 65 points. Twelve months later the then-Labor government lowered it to 60.