Changes to SC485 Visa - July 2023

Article by Sarah - Oz Study & Visa Centre

Introduction:

Australia has long been a preferred destination for international students seeking quality education and diverse career opportunities. Among the various options available to them, the Graduate subclass 485 Visa has been a popular choice. This visa allows international graduates to gain valuable work experience in Australia after completing their studies, enhancing their employability and potentially opening pathways to permanent residency. However, the global pandemic brought forth unprecedented challenges, leading to temporary concessions to support international graduates during this challenging time.

As the world gradually recovers from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and moves towards a post-pandemic environment, the Australian Department of Home Affairs has made significant changes to the Graduate subclass 485 visas. These changes aim to revert to pre-pandemic visa regulations and come into effect from July 1, 2023. In this blog, we will delve into the key updates for international graduates to better understand the new regulations and how they can navigate their future career prospects in Australia.

The Key Changes to the 485 Graduate Work Stream:

1) Occupation Nomination Requirement:

Starting from July 1, 2023, applicants for the 485 graduate work stream must nominate an occupation from the specified list outlined in schedule 1. This means that individuals will have to choose their occupation from the current designated list, unless a new legislative instrument is introduced to extend the deadline. This change ensures that the skilled workforce meets the demands of the Australian job market, promoting a more targeted and efficient approach to workforce planning.

2) Mandatory Skills Assessment:

Another significant change is the introduction of a mandatory skills assessment for individuals applying for the 485 graduate work stream, as outlined in schedule 2. This assessment is designed to verify that applicants possess the necessary qualifications and competencies required for their chosen occupation. The requirements for the skills assessment may vary depending on the occupation and the assessing authority responsible for conducting the evaluation. This move aims to ensure that the right skills are being matched with the right job opportunities, fostering a more sustainable and competitive workforce in Australia.

Positive Changes for the Post-Study Work Stream:

Extended Work Rights:

One of the positive updates that international graduates can look forward to is the extension of work rights under the post-study work stream. Starting July 1, 2023, graduates will be able to continue working in Australia for an additional two years after completing their studies. This extension opens up valuable opportunities for graduates to gain further work experience, contribute to the local economy, and explore career advancement options.

Benefits of the Post-Study Work Stream Extension:

Skill Enhancement and Networking:

The extension of work rights recognizes the importance of retaining skilled graduates in Australia. By allowing international graduates to continue working for an additional two years, it provides them with ample time to further develop their skills, build professional networks, and enhance their employability. This not only benefits the graduates themselves but also contributes to the growth and competitiveness of Australian industries that thrive on a diverse and skilled workforce.

Pathways to Permanent Residency:

The two-year extension offered under the post-study work stream provides a significant advantage for graduates considering pathways to permanent residency in Australia. With more time to explore job opportunities, graduates can potentially fulfill the requirements for permanent residency. This change encourages international students to consider Australia as a long-term career destination, fostering a stronger bond between the graduates and the nation.

Conclusion:

The recent changes announced by the Australian Department of Home Affairs regarding the Graduate subclass 485 visas signify a shift towards post-pandemic visa regulations, with many temporary concessions set to expire on July 1, 2023. International graduates intending to stay and work in Australia must familiarize themselves with the updated requirements, including the occupation nomination and mandatory skills assessments for the Graduate work stream.

By embracing these changes, international graduates can better position themselves in the Australian job market, ensuring compliance with the new regulations and maximizing their chances of success in their chosen career fields. Additionally, the extended work rights under the post-study work stream provide a fantastic opportunity for graduates to further enhance their skills, contribute to the local economy, and potentially pave the way towards permanent residency in Australia. With a strategic approach and a keen eye on the evolving visa regulations, international graduates can continue to make Australia their second home, enriching both their careers and the nation's cultural diversity.