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.
