Immigration Alert - New Skilling Australian Fund Bill Takes Effect August 12, 2018

In March 2018, Australia's Subclass 457 visa (Temporary Work, Skilled) was abolished and replaced with the new Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa.

Under Australia's new TSS visa program, employers are required to pay a levy toward the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF), which provides support to apprenticeships and trainee programs by ensuring vocational education and training.

On 12 August 2018, the Australian Government will implement these new immigration amendments, including the requirement of the SAF contributions. Any applications filed before this date will not be subject to the extended LMT duration or new government fees.

Additional effects include an impact on Labor Market Testing (LMT) requirements and a difference in government fees for Subclass 482 and 186 visas. Please see the chart below for the changes to tax-deductible SAF contributions based on company turnover.

Further, Labor Market Testing will increase from 21 days to 28 days. LMTs must also be conducted within 4 months of the submission of any new work visa applications or position transfer nominations.

Ultimately, businesses can expect more stringent LMT requirements and increased costs. We recommend that employers factor in these changes when determining onboarding dates and budgets.

Thank you,
Rachel Robinson-Evans, Associate Immigration Specialist, Aires
Diana Mikitin, Associate Immigration Specialist, Aires

About Aires
Aires delivers best-in-class global and domestic relocation solutions and mobility program management. Having been recognized by The Forum for Expatriate Management, the Better Business Bureau, and the Stevie Awards for organic growth methodology, excellent client/vendor partnerships, and leading-edge proprietary technology, Aires focuses on people, process, and technology to deliver world-class service. The company has also achieved ISO 9001, ISO 14001, FIDI-FAIM, C-TPAT, and Privacy Shield certifications and registrations. Clients are assured a focus on quality and customer service excellence when partnering with Aires. For more information, please visit www.aires.com.