On 1st April, our consultants attended a migration seminar in London regarding potential rules changes for July 1st (the traditional date for significant visa changes to be implemented), involving representatives from state governments as well as those from the Migration industry.
The overall consensus was that any radical changes to Australia’s immigration programme are unlikely at this time. There will probably be an election in Australia in July, so any radical alterations to visa policy are unlikely to be considered until after the political process is complete. Visa fees will probably increase in line with previous years, so skilled visa applicants, as well as those applying under other visa subclasses, are urged to ensure their applications are lodged prior to 1st July should they wish to avoid the prospect of an increased fee.
As with previous years, the new prices will be announced on 1st July or shortly before.
