Australia is set to see the biggest change to its employer sponsored migration program since 2017. From an expected start of November 25, 2023, we will see the clock wound back and in effect of having two skill shortage lists (Short Term and Medium to Long Term) will become redundant. For the first time employees in skills on the Short Term List will have a pathway to permanent residency under the 186 Transition to Residency stream. 

Here's what it means for employers and employees alike:

1. Reviewing Valued Employees on 482 Visas 

We recommend employers who currently have valued employees on 482 TSS visas working in occupations listed on the Short Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) should consider conducting an audit to see if they could be eligible for  for permanent residency under the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) subclass 186 visa program. 

In health, skills that would be covered include Pharmacy Technicians, Cardiac Technicians, and Anaesthetists (metro locations). In another bonus for retaining skilled workers, there will be a reduction in the employment period requirement (from 3 to 2 years) which will make this pathway more accessible for both employers and employees.

2. Expectation more requests for PR Sponsorship

Employers should also be prepared for their staff to come forward and inquire about sponsorship opportunities. As the reforms open up pathways to permanent residency for short term TSS visa holders, many skilled foreign workers may express their interest in securing their long term future in Australia. Employers should be ready to engage with these discussions, understand the new requirements, and consider the impact of sponsoring their employees for permanent residency.

These changes in Australia's migration policy represent a significant shift in the government's approach to skilled migration. It is essential for employers to be proactive and informed about the upcoming reforms to make the most of the opportunities they offer. Additionally, employers should be prepared to engage in discussions with their skilled foreign workers who may now see the possibility of achieving permanent residency in Australia under the new streamlined pathways.

ImminHealth provides a specialist migration advisory service for employers in health and healthcare professionals.

Contact us to find out more on how you can partner with ImminHealth to benefit from working with a specialist migration advisory service for employers in health for healthcare professionals looking to migrate to life down under.