Partner visa - Form 888 Declarants May Expect a Call from the DIBP

Departmental officers are increasingly contacting supporting witnesses to Partner Visa and Prospective marriage visas who provided Statutory Declarations or Forms 888 to verify the content of their statements. Form 888s (or Statutory Declaration in other forms), which contribute to the assessment of the social aspects of a relationship, must be taken very seriously by supporting witnesses since, under the Statutory Declarations Act 1959, people who intentionally make a false statement in a statutory declaration are liable for punishment...

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General Skilled Migration - amendment to the 'points test'

The Migration Regulations have been amended in relation to the Skilled Migration "points test" to provide additional points for applicants who: have completed at least two full academic years of post-graduate studies at doctoral or masters (research) level; in specified fields, which may include science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or information and communication technology. Please contact us if you would like advice and assistance about your eligibility for an Australian permanent residence visa. ...

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Skilled Occupation List (SOL) - 52 Occupations flagged for removal

Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL) is reviewed by the Department of Education and Training annually.  This year, over 50 occupations have been flagged for removal from future Skilled Occupation Lists (SOL).   Professional Accountant (General) Management Accountant Taxation Accountant Actuary Land Economist Valuer   Medical Medical Diagnostic Radiographer Occupational Therapist Medical Radiation Therapist Podiatrist Speech Pathologist General Practitioner Anaesthetist Cardiologist Endocrinologist Intensive Care...

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Shell Australia Chairman believes regional migration is key to resource sector growth

While the media continues to scrutinise the Australian immigration program, recently at a Melbourne Mining Club conference, Shell Australia chairman Andrew Smith, emphasised the importance of immigration in boosting resource industry and economic growth. Mr Smith said, ‘Often hysterical debate has surrounded Australian immigration in the new millennium. There has been a failure of industry to advocate for an immigration program that will provide economic stimulus to a sluggish economy.’ Mr Smith believes skilled labour shortages in the...

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How does the 457 visa work?

With a 457 visa you can work in Australia for up to four years. You can bring your family with you (they can work and study) and you can travel in and out of Australia as often as you like. The employer/sponsor must:  Apply to be a sponsor to recruit overseas workers; nominate the positions they want to fill; recruit the overseas workers to fill the nominated positions; and act as a sponsor for employees applying for a visa.   You as the employee accept the offer of employment from the employer; apply for the visa; and meet...

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