Australia and UK Sign Historic Free Trade Agreement
Visa Executive are proud members of the Australian=-British Chamber of Commerce and with the Chambers approval we are reproducing important information that will be of interest to our client base both in Australia and the UK.
The 17th of December 2021 saw the announcement of the Australia/UK Free Trade Agreement (AUKFTA).
There are many worthwhile and exciting benefits for both countries in the new FTA but the most important to our clients will be the ability for a broad base of businesses to trade more freely, including provisions to enable mobility of people.
The Australian British Chamber of Commerce, of which Visa Executive are a member, has compiled a comprehensive review of the FTA with partners at Principal Sponsor, Harrow Advisory. Please click here to access the review.
Most relevant to note for our clients are the substantial beneficial changes to the Australian migration programme for UK passport holders. Some of the changes that we are expecting include:
- Australian businesses can sponsor visas without labour market testing requirements being met
- Sponsoring business will not be subject to the skilled occupation list
- Accompanying spouses & children can work up to 4 years
- Guaranteed access for managers and specialists across all sectors for 3-year transfers
- Business visitors will be able to visit Australia for 3-months in any 6-month period
- Working Holiday age limit raised from 30 years of age to 35 years
- Working Holiday visas will be extended from the current 1 year to 3 year duration
- The current requirement for working holiday makers to work in the agricultural sector to obtain another working holiday visa will be removed within 2 years
- Joint declaration on Agriculture and Agri- Business, detailing visa pathways in both the UK and Australia
- Pilot early innovation & careers skills exchange up to one year - for UK graduates to Australia between 21 and 45 years; and for highly experienced specialists focused on innovation
Professional Services
Reciprocal commitments for entry of professional personnel including 3 year intra-corporate transfers (one year for graduate trainees)
Support for recognition of professional qualifications and increased collaboration between accreditation and regulatory bodies
So its all good news coming up for Australian businesses who are looking to employ UK passport holders. We are waiting on the FTA to be signed and ratified by both Governments.
Thank you to the Chamber for advising members of these important changes that we are sure will be welcome news to our clients.
