New report exposes lower migrant skills in Australia than government says.

Albanese Government’s Migration Policy Under Scrutiny

The Albanese government’s migration policy is facing fresh criticism as a recent report highlights that only 12% of new arrivals are skilled workers. Despite public concerns, the government plans to maintain Australia’s permanent migration intake at 185,000 annually.

Public Opposition to High Immigration Numbers

This decision has stirred public discontent, with anti-immigration rallies attracting thousands across Australia. Many citizens are worried about the record-high immigration levels that followed the Covid-19 pandemic, yet the government remains steadfast in its targets.

Government’s Focus on Skilled Migration

Immigration Minister Tony Burke has confirmed there will be no changes to permanent migration numbers for this financial year. He stressed the government’s focus on attracting skilled migrants to bolster Australia’s labour market and economy.

Report Raises Concerns Over Skilled Migration Intake

A report from the Australian National University (ANU) points out concerns regarding the effectiveness of Australia’s skilled migration programme. It reveals that over 60% of permanent visas are granted to family members of skilled workers, a figure that is double previous estimates.

Reliance on Temporary Visa Holders

Experts at ANU argue that Australia is overly reliant on temporary visa holders, including international students and working holidaymakers, to fill skilled positions. The report indicates that 84% of skilled job growth over the last three years has been driven by these temporary visa holders rather than permanent skilled migrants.

Skilled Workers Trapped in a Visa Catch-22

Professor Alan Gamlen from the ANU Migration Hub described a prevalent issue where graduate visa holders encounter a “Catch-22.” They find it challenging to secure skilled jobs without permanent residency, but cannot gain residency without first obtaining skilled employment.

Calls for Migration Program Reform

To better align with labour market demands, experts suggest comprehensive migration reform. Their recommendations include:

• Capping humanitarian and parent visas
• Allowing partner and secondary family applicants to be exempt from the main migration cap
• Prioritising skilled stream applicants in permanent migration intake

These changes are seen as essential for matching immigration practices with national skills shortages and economic goals.

Government Maintains Skilled Migration Strategy

Minister Burke reiterated that the current migration strategy will prioritise skilled migrants, based on feedback from state and territory consultations. This policy aims to balance economic needs with family reunification laws.

Opportunities for Skilled Visa Applicants

As Australia’s skilled migration programme undergoes scrutiny, there are still opportunities for those seeking visa sponsorship, such as through the subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage visa) or subclass 189 (Skilled Independent visa). Prospective applicants should be aware of increased competition and potential policy changes aimed at enhancing the programme’s efficiency.

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