Changes to Subclass 457 visa
The Minister for Immigration & Citizenship, the Hon Brendan O’Connor MP, has announced some major changes to the subclass 457, Temporary Work (Skilled), visa program. While the Minister’s statement presents changes to Immigration policy the Department of Immigration & Citizenship (DIAC) is still finalizing the details of the legislative. Most changes are expected to be introduced on 1 July 2013.
The debate looks set to continue for some time yet, especially in the rub up to the federal elections later this year, but the government have acted first with Treasurer Wayne Swan announcing in his most recent Federal Budget that the cost of a 457 visa will be increased to AU$900 (£580) in July.