Two-yearMaster by Coursework(Master by Coursework) Graduate Work visas (granted on or after 01/12/21) will have their validity extended to 3 years.In combination with regional study and residency requirements, some applicants may be eligible for up to 5 years of the right to live and work in Australia.

Trade Certificate & Diploma / Graduate Work StreamGraduate Work visas (granted on or after 01/12/21)will have their validity extended to 2 years.

Key update!“The Graduate Work visa for trade and diploma graduates requires nomination of an MLTSSL occupation” — this requirement will be temporarily removed from 01/07/2022. This change brings significant benefits, as outlined below:

With the removal of the nominated occupation requirement,any trade or diploma graduate may have the opportunity to apply for a Subclass 485 visa — this meansapplicants have access to a wider range of affordable, low-entry-requirement trade and diploma programmes.

For example,trade-type courses:before the reform, most trade and diploma students studied courses such as Western cookery, automotive mechanics, and carpentry. After the reform,they will have the opportunity to choose more lifestyle-oriented trade courses such as hairdressing, make-up artistry, horticulture, and computer system maintenance.

Non-trade programmessuch as Diploma of Nursing, Diploma of Community Service, Diploma of Hospitality Management graduates will alsohave the opportunity to obtain a Subclass 485 visa and contribute to the Australian workforce.

The range of occupations that can lead to migration through these programmes is set to flourish!

Precisely because more trade occupations on the short-term occupation list will gainfull-time work rights, applicants will then be able to undertake the TRA’s Job Ready Program toobtain a skills assessment.At the same time,graduates in occupations such as Enrolled Nurse and Community Worker will also be able to use a full-time work visa to participate in migration applications. This reform also aims to balance the occupational distribution within the migration market, bringing a diverse range of skilled workers to Australia — a win for both Australia and applicants alike.

Students who would like course recommendations or to understand which policies apply to their situation are welcome to connect with us directly for a chat.

Working holiday visa holders may benefit the most

Furthermore, in this author’s view, the applicants who stand to gain the most are those on working holiday visas in Australia.

These individuals often already have stable employment, quietly contributing in places such as farms, abattoirs, and restaurants.After the July reform, they will potentially be able to choose courses closely aligned with their current work, such as nursery production, meat processing, and food and beverage service management.They will use their existing work experience to relatively smoothlyobtain a skills assessment,and thereby proceed with a migration application.Interested applicants should follow this space closely — you are also welcome to get in touch early to start planning!

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Image 1 — the Minister’s original statement on Subclass 485 changes

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485 Extension & Enlivening — illustrated summary. According to the Department of Home Affairs website, Subclass 485 holders affected by COVID-19 will, subject to meeting the requirements, be eligible for a visa extension or reactivation, and will have the opportunity to apply for an alternative Subclass 485 visa upon returning to Australia. Further details are expected to be released mid-year.