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The Australian government has decided to reclassify Perth and Gold Coast as regional cities and the decision is beneficial for international students and skilled workers, according to immigration experts. The re-classification would become effective from 16th November 2019.
The Australian government decided to re-classify Perth and Gold Coast to bring down the population pressure on the major Australian cities–Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. Almost 70 per cent of the population growth of Australia is attributed to these cities.
The decision has made Perth and Gold Coast more attractive for international students and skilled workers. The changed status of these cities would promote the creation of local jobs in regional areas. Further, international students choosing to study in these cities would be enjoying all the incentives promised to those studying in regional areas. The decision would also help these cities get an increased share of international students and skilled workers.
The benefits the international students enjoy include eligibility for an additional year in Australia on a post-study work visa. It would help them to earn more Australian work experience, income and financial stability after the completion of their studies.
The decision to reclassify Perth and the Gold Coast will have a positive impact on the following visa types:
Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate Visa)
The international graduates from universities/colleges based in an Australian region can apply for the subclass 485 visa, which is valid for one year for a second time. But the holder must have resided in the regional area when they were holding their first Temporary Graduate Visa. Even while holding their second subclass 485 visa, they need to reside in the same regional area. For example, graduates of the universities in Perth must be living in Perth itself for the validity of the subclass 485 visa.
Subclass 482 (Temporary Skilled Shortage Visa)
The decision has enabled employers in Perth and Gold Coast to nominate international workers on 482 visas in occupations on the Regional Occupation List (ROL). The eligible employees can be nominated for up to four years. However, after three years, the employees may apply for permanent residency through the subclass 186 visa.
Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa)
Subclass 491 visa holders have to live in the designated regional area for three years after which they can apply for permanent residency in Australia via subclass 191 visa.
Subclass 494 (Skilled Employer-Sponsored Visa)
The Skilled Employer-sponsored visa holder may apply for permanent residence in Australia via the 191 visas after living for three years in the designated regional area. This visa allows local businesses in Perth and the Gold Coast to nominate employees for up to five years.
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