Australia's Migration Program Planning for 2024–25 | Australia Immigration Updates
Australia's migration landscape is undergoing significant changes, with the Albanese government announcing a reduction in the net overseas migration rate as part of its reforms. On 14 May 2024, the Australian Government unveiled its planning levels for the 2024–25 permanent Migration Program (Migration Program), setting it at 185,000 places.
This decision comes in response to the need to address critical skill shortages in priority sectors while prioritizing visa processing for regional Australia, all while enhancing social cohesion by strengthening family bonds and community ties.
Focus on Skilled Migration
The heart of the 2024–25 Migration Program lies in its commitment to supplementing the workforce with skilled individuals. The Skill Stream, comprising approximately 71% of the program, aims to boost the economy's productivity and fill essential skill gaps, particularly in regional areas. This initiative recognizes the vital role that skilled migrants play in driving innovation, economic growth, and job creation.
Within the Skill Stream, several changes have been introduced to address specific needs:
- Employer-Sponsored: The allocation has been increased to 44,000 visas, reflecting the government's efforts to support businesses in securing the talent they need to thrive.
- Skilled Independent: While the number of places has been reduced to 16,900, this category still offers a pathway for highly skilled individuals to migrate to Australia based on their qualifications and work experience.
- State/Territory Nominated and Regional: These categories have seen an increase to 33,000 visas each, highlighting the importance of attracting skilled migrants to regions facing unique economic challenges.
Family Reunification and Special Circumstances
In addition to skilled migration, family reunification remains a key pillar of Australia's migration policy. The Family Stream, comprising around 28% of the program, allows Australians to reunite with their loved ones and contribute to social cohesion. Partner visas, in particular, play a significant role in this stream, enabling families to come together and build a future in Australia.
- Partner Visas: The allocation remains at 40,500 places, emphasizing the government's commitment to supporting family reunification.
- Child Visas: Set at 3,000 places, this category ensures that Australian residents can sponsor their dependent or adopted children, facilitating family unity.
Furthermore, the Special Eligibility Stream, with 300 places, caters to individuals with unique circumstances, such as permanent residents returning to Australia after an extended period overseas. This stream acknowledges the importance of providing assistance to those facing specific challenges.
Multi-Year Planning and Future Outlook
Looking ahead, the government has announced a shift to a multi-year planning model for the Migration Program, extending the planning horizon to four years from 2025–26 onwards. This strategic approach aims to align migration planning with long-term infrastructure development, housing, and service provision.
The move towards a multi-year planning model reflects the government's commitment to a more holistic and sustainable approach to migration, ensuring that Australia continues to benefit from the contributions of skilled migrants while fostering strong family bonds and community cohesion.
Migration Program Planning Levels for 2024–25
| Visa Stream | Visa Category | 2023–24 Planning Levels | 2024–25 Planning Levels |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skill | Employer Sponsored | 36,825 | 44,000 |
| Skilled Independent | 30,375 | 16,900 | |
| Regional | 32,300 | 33,000 | |
| State/Territory Nominated | 30,400 | 33,000 | |
| Business Innovation & Investment | 1,900 | 1,000 | |
| Global Talent (Independent) | 5,000 | 4,000 | |
| Distinguished Talent | 300 | 300 | |
| Family | Partner | 40,500 | 40,500 |
| Parent | 8,500 | 8,500 | |
| Child | 3,000 | 3,000 | |
| Other Family | 500 | 500 | |
| Special Eligibility | Special Eligibility | 400 | 300 |
| Total Migration Program | 190,000 | 185,000 |
Note: Delivery of the Partner and Child visa categories are demand-driven, with indicative planning levels only.
State and Territory Nomination Allocations
| State/Territory | Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190) | Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491) | Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACT | 600 | 600 | 0 |
| NSW | 2,650 | 1,500 | 0 |
| NT | 250 | 400 | 0 |
| QLD | 900 | 650 | 0 |
| SA | 1,100 | 1,200 | 0 |
| TAS | 600 | 600 | 0 |
| VIC | 2,700 | 600 | 0 |
| WA | 1,500 | 850 | 0 |
| Total | 10,300 | 6,400 | 0 |
Note: No new allocations have been given for the BIIP. The Department has enough applications on-hand to meet the 2023–24 planning level for the BIIP.
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