DFAT issues ‘Do Not Travel’ advisory for Saudi Arabia amid escalating regional attacks
New Ministerial Directions overhaul processing order for employer-sponsored visas
Nationals say backpacker-visa fast-track ‘band-aid’ won’t save harvests
Latest News
Australia raises Bahrain advice to ‘Reconsider Travel’ as Gulf tensions rise
DFAT now advises Australians to ‘Reconsider Travel’ to Bahrain, citing missile-attack risks and potential flight disruptions. Businesses with personnel in Bahrain must refresh security plans, arrange alternate evacuation routes and ensure insurance coverage under a Level 3 advisory.
NSW DAMA consultation closes, subclass 190 invitation rumours swirl
Consultation on a potential NSW Designated Area Migration Agreement closes 23 October 2026. While industry hopes it will ease regional skill shortages, no DAMA has been approved yet. Unverified reports of new subclass 190 invitations are circulating; employers should await official confirmation.
South Australia opens limited on-shore ROI window ahead of January visa cliff
South Australia has opened a special Registration of Interest round for on-shore skilled migrants whose visas end by 31 January 2027. The limited window offers a pathway to state nomination under subclasses 190 and 491 but is restricted to applicants already working in priority sectors within the state.
Northern Territory hosts webinar to clarify student-visa rule changes
Study NT is holding a 23 October webinar with Home Affairs officials to explain recent student-visa reforms. International students and employers can gain authoritative guidance on the new onshore-application ban and dependant restrictions, helping to counter confusion in the market.
Tasmania issues 70 state-nomination invitations in latest round
Tasmania invited 38 skilled-migration candidates for subclass 190 and 32 for subclass 491 nomination in its 23 October round, with lowest ROI scores of 317 and 76. The figures indicate continued demand for skilled workers but underscore the importance of accurate documentation and genuine ties to the state.
Digital Australia Travel Declaration set to debut at Western Sydney International Airport
From 26 October, Western Sydney International Airport will be the first in Australia to accept the new web-based Australia Travel Declaration, letting passengers file immigration, customs and biosecurity details online and receive a single QR code for arrival. The government will invest A$56 million to expand the system nationwide, promising faster clearance and better risk-screening. For companies, the ATD offers a more predictable, paper-free arrival process for inbound staff and visitors.