Australian Immigration Minister, Kevin Andrews, has announced major changes to the Australian General Skilled Migration program (GSM) coming into place from 1st September 2007.

Changes include :

• increased level of English language competency
• a streamlined GSM structure
• more points for previous skilled work
• a temporary work visa for graduates

In the past, the threshold for the English language requirement was an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 5(vocational). That level will rise to 6(competent). However, those entering through trade occupations will only need an IELTS score of 5. More points will be given to those who achieve an IELTS score over the required level.

Previous work experience in Australia will now gain more recognition. If an applicant has 12 months work experience within Australia, they will be awarded 10 points. There will now be stiffer requirements between study, work experience and nominated occupation.

The 15 GSM visa subclasses will be reduced to 9. This streamlining of the GSM structure will allow applicants to find subclasses suited to their occupation more easily. The 9 classes are:

• Skilled Independent (175)
• Skilled Sponsored (176)
• Skilled Regional Sponsored (475)
• Skilled - Recognised Graduate (476)
• Skilled Graduate (485)
• Skilled Regional Sponsored (487)
• Skilled Independent - onshore (885)
• Skilled Sponsored - onshore (886)
• Skilled Regional (887)

A new Australian visa has been added that will allow students to apply for an 18 month skilled-graduate visa with no work or study restrictions. This allows students to work in Australia and increase their work experience, so that they may apply for a GSM visa when their skilled-graduate visa expires.

Applications submitted on or before 31 August 2007 will not need to reflect the new changes.