Changes to Australia visa rules in effect

Changes to the General Skilled Migration (GSM) programme in Australia have gone into effect this month.

Under the revisions, more points are awarded for high English language skills, as well as for advanced Australian educational and work experience.

Two new visas have also been created; the Skilled - Recognised Graduate visa is aimed at recent graduates from overseas universities with skills that are in demand, while the Skilled - Graduate visa is for students who are already in the country and wish to remain and work.

"The changes would lead to better labour market outcomes for all General Skilled Migration applicants and help deliver the skills Australian employers need," commented immigration minister Kevin Andrews.

"This also assists in maintaining the strong reputation of our education sector as a provider of high quality education to international students."

Recently, statistics from the Australian government indicated that Britain sent the most skilled workers to the country last year, with accountancy jobs among those most filled.