Latest Immigration News Australia: ACS Launches Job Portal; COVID-19 Updates for Temporary Visa Holders

The Australian Computer society (ACS) – the skills assessment authority for foreign nationals who wish to pursue ICT occupations in Australia – has recently launched a platform to connect certain members with potential employers. Also, according to latest immigration news Australia has issued new instructions regarding the immigration status of temporary visa holders in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Due to lockdowns imposed to prevent the spread of the virus, businesses have been forced to operate digitally, thus increasing the reliance on technology and causing a higher demand for workers in the technology sector. The Career Platform will allow employers such as Accenture, ANZ Bank, MYOB, Optus, etc. to fulfill the growing need for IT professionals at all levels by accessing the ACS Australia wide network of experienced tech workers, students and graduates. The job hub is only for ACS members.

Temporary visa holders in Australia who do not have sufficient savings to support themselves in this crisis have been advised to return to their home countries. However, to avoid this outflow, many of the country’s 2.1 million temporary visa holders will be allowed to access their superannuation savings.

139,000 skilled foreign nationals holding a temporary work visa Australia that is valid for two or four years – who entered the country to fill workforce shortages in IT and other sectors – can access up to $10,000 from their superannuation during the current financial year, if they are employed by a sponsor.

Of the 565,000 foreigners studying in Australia – 240,000 are also working in the country. These international students can rely on family support, seek part-time work, or use their personal savings. Holders of the Student Visa Australia can work for up to 40 hours in a fortnight. If they have been in Australia for more than 12 months, they can also access superannuation funds.

The 118,000 people holding Working Holiday visas have been allowed flexibility to enable them to support crucial industry sectors. However, they have been encouraged to leave the country if they cannot anticipate supporting themselves over the next six months.

This latest immigration news Australia has indicated that in addition to announcing massive relief measures accessible to immigrants and natives, the government has also taken measures to protect certain ‘in-demand’ immigrant profiles in the current scenario.