On target; Australia aims for more skilled migrants

LONDON – The Australian Government has confirmed significant changes to its immigration strategy by adding to its Migration Occupations in Demand List (MODL). The changes affect skilled visas for immigration to Australia.

The MODL and Skills Occupation List (SOL) form part the backbone of Australia’s point-based skilled migration strategy.

‘The additions to the MODL will have a significant impact on the number of workers who now qualify to immigrate to Australia. The additions mean the Australian economy is ready to absorb skilled workers from the occupational categories listed,’ said Oonagh Baerveldt spokesperson for the Australian Visa Bureau.

Applicants for immigration to Australia who nominate one of the newly added occupations on or after 4 May 2005 will be awarded additional points. Those who lodged their application before 4 May 2005, and the application is not yet finalised, will also be granted additional points.

Applicants under the points tested General Skilled Migration (GSM) program who nominate an occupation on the MODL are awarded either 15 points or 20 points.

The following occupations were added to the MODL on 4 May 2005:

Professional
Civil Engineer
Dentist
Nuclear Medicine Technologist
Podiatrist
Speech Pathologist

Trades
Bricklayer
Cabinetmaker
Carpenter & Joiner
Cook
Electrical Powerline Tradesperson
Electrician (Special Class)
Electronic Equipment Tradesperson
Fibrous Plasterer
General Electrician
General Electronic Instruments Tradesperson
General Plumber
Solid Plaster

‘Australia’s points-style system of immigration has proven to be extremely successful in filling labour gaps in the economy. Of course now it’s being touted by politicians as a potential model for Britain,’ said Ms Baerveldt.

‘The points system is effective but not always straightforward. Anyone who is interested in immigrating to Australia should visit the Australian Visa Bureau web site at http://www.visabureau.co.uk/australia/ and complete the online assessment to see if they meet the basic legislative requirements,’ said Ms Baerveldt.

About Australian Visa Bureau
The Australian Visa Bureau specialises in arranging visas for British and Irish national looking to live and work in Australia. Based in London, the company ensures clients are given the most up to date information concerning immigration and visa policy. Visit http://www.visabureau.co.uk for further information and free online visa assessments.

For comment on this story, or further information, please contact:

Oonagh Baerveldt
Communications Manager
Australian Visa Bureau
http://www.visabureau.co.uk
Office: + 44 (0) 870 744 7340
Mobile: +44 (0) 787 634 3664