Rise in Australian business trips

Visa applications for short-term business trips increased to over 120,000 in the last quarter of 2011, according to recent figures. The 456 subclass visa, also known as the short term business visa, allows the holder to stay in Australia for three months and carry out a range of tasks such as attending conferences and investigating business prospects. The 456 visa now accounts for 14% of all visa applications. The rise in applications is being attributed by some to Australia’s growing economy and high natural resources, which are attracting international investors to the country.