Dedicated to workers earning below AUD 70,000 but possessing critical skills, the Essential Skills pathway is currently in the developmental phase by the government.

1. Government Initiatives for Australian
Immigration in 2024
The inception of the innovative Skills in Demand visa signals a transformative move to bolster Australian
immigration and foster increased mobility within the local labor market. This visionary visa program
introduces three distinct pathways, strategically catering to the diverse needs of prospective migrants.
With a primary focus on attracting skilled individuals capable of contributing to Australia's national
productivity, the visa streams aim to provide enticing opportunities across a spectrum of occupational
domains.
Specialist Skills Pathway:
The Specialist Skills pathway is tailored for highly skilled migrants whose contributions are deemed
essential to Australia's overall productivity. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate guaranteed annual
earnings of at least AUD 135,000, surpassing those of Australian workers engaged in similar occupations.
Eligibility encompasses all occupations, excluding trades workers, machinery operators, drivers, and
laborers. This pathway serves as a key driver for the targeted growth of Australian immigration in
sectors requiring specialized skills.
Core Skills Pathway:
The Core Skills pathway is crafted for applicants whose occupations align with the newly introduced
Core Skills Occupation list, addressing shortages identified by Jobs and Skills Australia. To qualify,
applicants must earn at least the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT). This pathway
strategically addresses specific skill gaps, aligning with Australia's long-term goals for a robust and well-
rounded immigration strategy.
Essential Skills Pathway:
Dedicated to workers earning below AUD 70,000 but possessing critical skills, the Essential Skills
pathway is currently in the developmental phase by the government. This pathway provides an
alternative for workers sponsored through labor agreements, emphasizing the importance of
recognizing and facilitating the immigration of individuals with essential skills at a more accessible
income level. It further contributes to the broader goal of diversifying and enriching Australian
immigration patterns.
The creation of the Skills in Demand visa, with its three targeted pathways, underscores Australia's
commitment to enhancing workforce flexibility and addressing critical skill shortages. By providing
avenues for skilled migrants across varying income brackets and occupational categories, the visa
program stands as a strategic initiative to fortify the nation's labor market and stimulate economic
growth.
In a forward-looking approach, the Australian government has outlined several key initiatives aimed at
shaping the landscape of immigration in 2024. These strategic measures seek to refine the immigration

2. system, address specific sectoral needs, and streamline visa processes. The following are noteworthy
aspects of the government's initiatives:
1. Reformed Points Test for Skilled Migration: The government is set to explore a reformed Points
Test for permanent skilled migration. This signals a commitment to refining the criteria for
assessing the eligibility of skilled migrants, ensuring that the selection process aligns with
Australia's evolving economic and labor market needs.
2. Talent and Innovation Visa: Introducing a new Talent and Innovation visa underscores the
government's emphasis on attracting migrants who can actively contribute to the growth of
sectors deemed crucial to Australia's interests. This visa is designed to bring in individuals with
the skills and innovative capabilities necessary to drive advancements and prosperity in key
industries.
3. Student SC500 Visa Revisions: The Student SC500 visa, integral to Australia's education sector,
will undergo revisions. Expectations include a focus on Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE)
requirements and elevated English proficiency standards. These changes aim to ensure that
international students contribute positively to Australia's academic environment and,
potentially, its workforce upon completion of their studies.
4. Simplified Temporary Graduate SC485 Visas: Streamlining the process for Temporary Graduate
SC485 visas is a significant move in facilitating the transition of international students to the
workforce post-graduation. Simplifications in this visa category aim to enhance the experience
for graduates seeking employment opportunities in Australia.
5. Closure of the 408 Covid Visa: As part of the ongoing response to the evolving global situation,
the government has decided to close the 408 Covid visa. This reflects a shift in focus and signals
a phased return to pre-pandemic immigration norms.
6. Visa Application Fee Increases from July 2024: Starting July 2024, there will be adjustments to
visa application fees. This financial measure is likely aimed at balancing the costs associated with
processing visas and maintaining the integrity of the immigration system.
7. State Requirements for 190 and 491 Visas in 2024: State-specific requirements for the 190 and
491 visas will be subject to adjustments in 2024. These changes are anticipated to reflect
regional needs and priorities, further aligning the immigration system with the diverse economic
landscapes across different Australian states.
In summary, the government's comprehensive approach in 2024 aims to modernize and optimize the
Australian immigration system. By addressing skilled migration, innovation, student visas, and state-
specific needs, these initiatives reflect a commitment to shaping a dynamic and responsive immigration
framework for the benefit of both migrants and the Australian community.