Australia needs more skilled immigrants to address shortages in the workforce. Currently, skilled migration is at an all-time low due to barriers like long assessment times, stagnant wages, and restrictive policies. The government is considering reforms like new visa categories and changes to existing visas to attract and retain more skilled workers to fuel Australia's economy and keep it competitive globally.

1. Australia Needs More Skilled Immigrants!
We hear it all the time – we have too many unskilled immigrants and not enough skilled workers. It’s
true, skilled immigration in Australia is at an all-time low, and there are several reasons why this is the
case. We’ve reached our immigration quota, employers aren’t willing to pay for skilled workers, we
don’t want to steal jobs from Australians. The skills that aren’t required in our country. Whatever the
reason may be, it will only get worse if changes are not made soon.
Why do they need more?
Currently skilled migration to Australia is at an all-time low. With many Australians having to wait over a
year for a simple assessment of their skills. This is bad for employers who want to find skilled workers
but it’s also bad for Australians. Who are in need of a job or just looking to upskill. Ultimately skilled
migration works best. When there is a lot of movement on both sides and because of stagnant wages
and barriers placed on immigrants. That two-way flow isn’t happening. There needs to be a reform in
skilled immigration policies. It doesn’t matter what side you’re on, we can all agree that better
communication would benefit everyone.
How can we help?
The truth is that Australia’s population growth is significantly less than other countries meaning. We
have to make a concerted effort to attract migrants. Skilled migration programs have become one of our
government’s solutions; in 2014-15, skilled migrants made two-thirds of Australia’s permanent
immigration program. The challenge has been convincing skilled workers from other countries to make
Australia their home. Just last year, less than half of applicants were granted permanent residency visas
for skilled migration. Increasing skilled migrant retention will help us maintain our workforce—and
remain competitive in a global market. So, what can you do? It depends on your particular situation, but
most experts agree that setting clear goals. The developing a concrete plan are important first steps.
What are their current policies?
Current policies regarding skilled migration in Australia are onerous and complex. Immigration
authorities require that applicants have not only completed an approved course of study (or equivalent).
But also, must prove they have experience working in their chosen field, show a high level of fluency in
English. And show a high-paying job offer to be eligible for skilled migration. These requirements
represent significant barriers to foreign workers seeking employment or starting businesses in Australia.
Furthermore, there is a limit on how many visas are issued per year; currently 70% of all visa
applications are rejected. Though only 50% are considered by immigration officials. The Australian
government has launched reforms over the past few years aimed at attracting highly skilled immigrants
and loosening some restrictions. But more work is needed to achieve a truly streamlined system.

2. Potential new policies
The coalition government of Australia has placed a lot of emphasis on skilled immigration. Prime
Minister Turnbull and his team have not committed to any clear policy changes that skilled migration to
Australia easier. But there is talk in Canberra of a new visa category for sponsored skilled migrants;
something like America’s H1-B. Without a limit on how long someone can stay or how many people it
can be used for. The existing 457 visa for business sponsorship is also set for change, with Australian
policymakers. Considering some form of annual cap along with all sorts of new regulatory and
compliance obligations, like mandatory drug testing. Nothing concrete has been decided yet and it
might still be some time before these proposed changes are made official.
Do your research before applying
The immigration process can be a long and complicated one, especially for skilled immigrants. So it’s
important to start your research as early as possible. Doing so will help you understand what each visa
category entails and which one is right for your needs. You can find everything you need to know on
Australia’s Department of Immigration and Border Protection website. Once you’ve determined which
visa will work best for your situation. Fill out an Expression of Interest and wait until you hear back from

3. an immigration agent. The officer with any additional questions they may have. Note: Unlike some
countries that require pre-approved visas in order to apply. Australia allows skilled migrants to submit
their applications immediately after applying through Skill Select.
How Skilled Immigration Can Benefit Australia
With a small and aging population, Australia is in need of immigrants to help fuel its economy.
Unfortunately, there are more than enough people leaving Australia for greener pastures than arriving
in. This has left many employers struggling to find workers with certain skillsets. If you’re looking to
move overseas but feel reluctant because you lack experience and professional contacts, skilled
immigration is a great solution. By immigrating via skilled immigration—such as through Australia’s
employer-sponsored or state-sponsored programs. immigrants can gain permanent residency while
working in their field of expertise or study. It also offers an opportunity to network with professionals
and further develop one’s skill set before settling permanently within Australia.
The benefit of Australia immigration
A skilled immigration program offers a lot of flexibility. You can apply to any state in Australia, and while
they all differ. It’s likely that you can find one that will allow you to live and work wherever you wish.
And what about once you’re here? The benefit of moving is not just finding a new place to live and new
people to meet. It’s also allowing yourself more opportunities for growth. Moving countries offers an
opportunity to learn about something new. Whether that be your career or culture or even cuisine. This
ultimately helps improve your skill set, which can make for some truly satisfying job prospects when it
comes time for. You head back into a job market that may have changed quite a bit in your absence!