On 4 November 2019, the Hon David Coleman MP officially launched the Global Talent Independent program, which offers a streamlined, priority visa pathway for highly skilled individuals to work and live permanently in Australia. The program is designed to strengthen Australia’s ability to compete for the world’s best and brightest skilled migrants and grow Australian businesses of the future. The eligibility requirements for the program include that the candidate:

• is highly skilled and internationally recognised in one of seven target sectors (listed below); and
• has the ability to earn the Fair Work High Income Threshold (currently $148,700).

In assessing whether a candidate is likely to have the ability to meet this salary threshold, the Department will consider: current salary or future job offers; as well as candidates who have recently graduated or are soon to graduate with PhD or Masters qualifications in the target sectors. The following target sectors have been selected to foster growth in future-focused industries:

• AgTech
• FinTech
• MedTech
• Cyber Security
• Space and Advanced Manufacturing
• Energy and Mining Technology
• Quantum Information, Advanced Digital, Data Science and ICT.

Individuals who wish to be considered under the Global Talent Independent program can register their interest through the Global Talent contact form. Migration Agents can also refer potential candidates using this link. Individuals who meet the requirements will be provided with a unique Global Talent identifier, which provides priority processing for a Distinguished Talent visa application.   Candidates accepted into the program will receive streamlined, priority processing with complete visa applications currently taking less than a month to finalise. All visa applicants need to meet the Distinguished Talent visa regulatory criteria, including health and character requirements, before a visa can be granted.