Author: Julie Williams | MARN 9903637

Many International Students apply, receive and hold a 485 visa……valid for 18 months or up until four (4) years depending on the stream.  We often see individuals not making the most of their Subclass 485 visa by missing the opportunity to gain experience in their chosen field of study. If you’re finding it challenging to […]

The new five-year Northern Territory Designated Area Migration Agreement (NT DAMA III) has been executed between the Northern Territory and the Australian Federal Government on 19 March 2025 and is open for business. The Northern Territory (NT) DAMA is an employer-sponsored visa program that enables businesses across the Northern Territory to sponsor workers for positions […]

I am from the United States and arrived on a Work & Holiday Visa (462) on September 16th 2023, meaning I’ve been in Australia for a year and a half!  I applied for a  State Nominated Subclass 190 visa through the state of Victoria, based on my skill set.  I was invited in August 2024, receiving […]

With the end of the financial year fast approaching — and the Federal Election on the horizon — it’s important that Australian employers remain informed about key immigration changes that may impact your business’s ability to sponsor skilled workers. Below, we break down the most relevant updates confirmed by the Department of Home Affairs, and […]

From Brazil To Australia I am from Brazil, and I travelled to Australia in 2015 for a sabbatical period to have experience of studying English abroad while experiencing the language on a daily basis, meeting new people of different backgrounds, visit and travel to different places, taste different culinary, enjoying life, so have the best […]

Australia’s Working Holiday Maker (WHM) Program continues to expand, creating exciting new opportunities for young people worldwide to experience life in Australia while seeking skilled employment. With over 40 partner countries already participating, this visa program is becoming an increasingly valuable stepping stone for those looking to establish themselves in Australia—whether through securing employer sponsorship […]

Are you a parent of an Australian citizen or permanent resident longing to reunite with your family in Australia? If you don’t meet the Balance of Family test for other parent visa pathways or are waiting on the lengthy processing of a permanent contributory parent visa, the Subclass 870 Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa could be […]

The Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa provides a pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers who have been sponsored by an employer in Australia. If you are a current Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Subclass 482 visa holder, this article will guide you through the recent changes to the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream as […]

As the Lunar New Year approaches, it brings with it the promise of new beginnings, prosperity, and opportunities. For many, this festive season is a time to reflect on the past and plan for a brighter future. At Migration Downunder, we recognise the deep cultural significance of the Lunar New Year and celebrate Australia as […]

The holiday season often reminds us of the warmth and joy of family, whether it’s spending time with loved ones who are visiting Australia or cherishing moments while overseas, dreaming of being closer to family members here. If you’ve been longing to bring your family together, now is the perfect time to turn that dream […]

The Skills in Demand (SID) visa was introduced on 7 December 2024, replacing the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) 482 visa. This significant change in Australia’s migration framework aims to address the country’s evolving labour market needs by streamlining skilled migration and providing enhanced pathways for highly skilled workers. Here’s a detailed look at the SID […]

The Department of Home Affairs has announced that effective 7 December 2024, the new Skills in Demand (SID) visa program will be implemented along with the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL). This new program will replace the Subclass 482 visa and its existing occupation lists. Key Details of the SID Visa Implementation Initially, many anticipated […]

As you are no doubt aware, the Australian government has announced significant updates to the skilled migration landscape, focusing on the introduction of the Skills in Demand Visa, which will replace the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) subclass 482 visa. These changes reflect Australia’s continued efforts to streamline skilled migration and address critical workforce shortages in […]

Applying for an Australian visa can be a rewarding but complex process. With various visa options and strict requirements, even small errors can lead to delays or rejections. To help you navigate the process, we’ve outlined the top five mistakes to avoid when applying for an Australian visa. 1. Providing Incomplete or Incorrect Information Accuracy […]

Where have you Migrated From? My wife Lucy and I met in Zimbabwe and subsequently married at historic Victoria Falls.  Thereafter, we travelled to ‘our’ home in Los Angeles and Lucy entered the U.S.A.as a green card holder.   We are both US citizens. What Was Your Motivation to Come to Australia? During our American […]

As Australia continues to grow and strengthen its economy, the need for skilled migration in critical sectors has become a top priority for the Australian government. To support this demand, various skilled visa pathways are available for individuals with expertise in industries that are vital to Australia’s long-term prosperity. These sectors are not only fundamental […]

Australia’s migration and employment landscape is constantly evolving, and with it, so are the systems used to classify and manage occupations. One of the most significant recent changes in this area is the transition from the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) to the new Occupation Standard Classification for Australia (OSCA). This […]

Australia’s strong emphasis on family unity and migration has made it a leading destination for individuals seeking to reunite with their loved ones. The Australian government provides various visa options for families, allowing spouses, parents and children to reconnect and live together. 1. Partner Visas One of the most popular visa options for families is […]

In a significant development for cultural exchange and economic collaboration Chinese and Indian citizens can now apply for a Subclass 462 Work & Holiday Visa.  This initiative aims to bolster the ties between the countries. Commencing on 1 October 2024, the Australian government is implementing a visa pre-application (ballot) process for the following high demand […]

For Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens, reuniting with children overseas is a deeply emotional and important step. The Australian government offers several pathways to bring children to Australia through a child visa. This article serves as a detailed guide to help you navigate the process, understand the eligibility criteria, and successfully […]

Australia’s Permanent Parent Visa program offers a pathway for parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to reunite with their families. However, understanding the available visa options and making an informed decision is crucial, as the process involves significant waiting times, costs, and specific eligibility criteria. Basic Criteria for Parent Visa […]

A representative from the Victorian government recently provided key updates on the state nomination program, which re-opened in August 2024. The message from the Melbourne State Government highlights an increase in opportunities for regional Victoria during the 2024-2025 program year. This year, 2,000 places have been allocated to the Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491) visa, […]

Employing temporary skilled workers in Australia can provide businesses with access to a diverse talent pool and specialised skills that may not be readily available locally. However, it also involves navigating a complex landscape of immigration laws and regulations. Employers must be aware of their obligations and the criteria that need to be met to […]

The journey to obtaining an Australian visa can often feel like preparing for the Olympics. Much like athletes training for the marathon, prospective migrants must approach the process with dedication, patience, and a long-term perspective. Training for the Long Haul Just as marathon runners spend months, even years, preparing for the big race, aspiring migrants […]