Federal Budget 2022 – What this means for Australian immigration

The recent Federal Budget highlighted certain changes to be made to the Australian Immigration system.

Whilst some changes have previously been announced and implemented, various new modifications were noted in the budget relating to Australian immigration.

Previously implemented/announced changes include:

• The introduction of 195,000 permanent migration places;
• An additional $42.2 million fund to accelerate visa processing;
• The hiring of additional staff at the Department of Home Affairs to clear the perpetuating backlog;
• Priority processing of offshore skilled migrants; and
• The relaxation of work restrictions for student visa holders to continue until the 30 June 2023.

New Pacific Engagement Visa

New modifications surround the new Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV) which will be providing up to 3,000 permanent migration places for nationals of Pacific Island Countries and Timor-Leste. This change compliments the existing permanent migration program which will also remain in force, offering 197,000 places in total.

Skilled Visa Allocations Increase

As previously announced, the number of skilled visas available will increase significantly, from 79,600 to 142,000 in total. The visas included in this change relate to employer sponsored, skilled independent, regional, as well as any state and territory nominated visa applicable.

Breakdown of the skilled visas available for 2022/2023

Employer Sponsored Visas – 35,000 places

Skilled Independent Visas – 32,100 places

Regional Visas – 34,000 places

State & Territory Nominated Visas – 31,000 places

Business Innovation & Investment Visas – 5,000 places

Global Talent Visas – 5,000 places

Distinguished Talent Visas – 300 places

Change to Family Visa Allocations

In addition to these changes, the Australian government has increased the allocation from 4,500 to 8,500 for parent visas.

Whilst Partner and Child visas are to remain demand-driven, with no limited place set on these, there has also been the introduction of around 500 places for other family visas, and 100 places for special eligibility visas.  

If you have any questions or queries about these changes, please do not hesitate to contact our office on 1300 083 843 or make an enquiry online.