In the media
LCA: Unfair hike to FCC migration fees
The Law Council considers it unconscionable for the
government to be imposing such an exorbitant rise in the cost of
migration applications to the Court," Ms Wright said. These
increases will likely result in a significant upsurge in
unrepresented applicants as people will be even less able to afford
access to legal assistance after paying the application fee (17
November 2020). More...
Citizenship appointments resume in all states and
territories
Testing has progressively resumed in states and
territories as COVID-19 restrictions have allowed.
More than 30,000 tests have been administered since testing resumed
in July 2020. An updated version of the Australian Citizenship: Our
Common Bond publication is available online in English and in 40
community languages to help people to prepare for the test. For
more information on citizenship tests and appointments
visit here (18 November 2020). More...
Canada and UK ramp up pitch for migrants while Australia
struggles to even get its own home
Australia's coronavirus border controls are hampering
efforts to revive its stalled immigration program, as Canada
expands its intake and the UK makes it easier for migrants to
settle (18 November 2020). More...
In practice and courts and publishing
Department of Home Affairs updated visa processing time
frames published
The latest processing times of popular visas have been
prepared by SearchMyANZSCO and are listed here. Get processing times for other
visas here November 2020).
Closure of the Trades Recognition Service
The Trades Recognition Service (TRS) will
close on 1 December 2020 due to low
demand and no new applications will be accepted from this date. TRA
Skills assessments will continue to be available to people who have
gained their skills outside a formal apprenticeship pathway through
the Offshore Skills Assessment
Program available in Australia and selected overseas
locations. More...
Updated Australian Values Statement
The Life in Australia booklet provides visa applicants
with supporting information on the values in the updated Australian
Values Statement.
For more information visit here. As previously announced, a new Australian Citizenship Test with a
stronger focus on Australian values will also come into effect on
15 November 2020.
This publication does not deal with every important topic or change in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you have found this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances please contact one of the named individuals listed.