Changes to the Migration Regulations, which came into effect on 16 October 2024, recognise that children who have been born in Australia to overseas nationals and who have spent a significant part of their childhood residing here have a strong connection to the Australian community.

One of the 8 keys actions forming part of Australia’s new Migration Strategy relates to a new visa category known as a Skills in Demand visa. The commitment to develop this new visa envisages its holders having full mobility in terms of their employment parameters and a clear pathway to permanent residence.

A new immigration Ministerial Direction (known as MI110) aimed at tightening the parameters for decision makers regarding what factors should be given weight when considering Australian visa refusals or cancellations came into effect from 21 June 2024.

The Migration Amendment (Strengthening Employer Compliance) Act 2024 received royal assent on 20 February 2024 and commences from 1 July 2024. These changes are being introduced to try to curb temporary migrant worker exploitation and hold employers who conduct themselves this way accountable.

In April 2023, the Australian government announced a new direct pathway for eligible New Zealand Citizens applying for Australian Citizenship. The new direct pathway commences from 1 July 2023 and is available to New Zealand citizens holding a Special Category Visa and who meet the eligibility criteria.

Someone granted citizenship who later displays attributes which bring into question their “good character” can find themselves in circumstances where the government seeks to revoke their citizenship status.

In Australia, most visa applicants must meet minimum health requirements before a visa will be granted. It’s called ‘obtaining a health clearance’. In recent times, there has been a number of media articles about applicants failing this requirement and looking at having to leave the country.