Lisa's Blog

You may recognise Bradley from our "Words We Love' page - Bradley has been a client of ours over a number of years and has finally achieved his dream of becoming an Australian Citizen. Bradley and his wife Collette, along with their children have been enjoying a change of lifestyle for some time overseas, so his citizenship certificate was presented by Australia's ambassador to Italy, Dr Greg French. Congratulations Bradley!  Read More

At present, Parent visas are under scrutiny by the government. Ministers are questioning to cost of bringing elderly parents into the country at a time in their lives when they are most likely to need extensive and possibly expensive health and medical care. The productivity commission indicated that even paying a non-refundable fee of $50000 is nowhere near enough to cover the 2015/16 estimated cumulative lifetime costs of a parent visa holder of between $335000 and $410000. One possible alternative being discussed is a five (5) year holiday visa instead.  Read More

The ABC (Australian Broadcasting Commission) has put out a 'fact check' about the many claims as to how many 457 Visa are granted. click here  to read the result.  Read More

From 01 July, the new Simplified Student Visa Framework (SSVF) will come into effect. This means:  Read More

The changes below will take effect on 01 July 2016...  Read More

The changes announced in the 2016 Budget will impact on backpackers - they will now be expected to pay the base rate of 32.2 cents in the dollar tax from July 2016. The government also intends to reduce the DIBP work force by almost 400 people, even though there is a huge backlog of cases. Don't expect a speed up of processing times in the near future.  Read More

Islamic State has been declared a terrorist organisation under the Australian Citizenship Act. The effect of this is the possibility of cancellation of Australian Citizenship for a dual passport holder who is proven to have engaged in terrorism related conduct.  Read More

The Senate recently released a report on 'Temporary Work Visa Holders'  - that is, the 457 Visa category. To read report click here  Read More

If you are an Australian who has entered into a relationship with a person from another country and you are hoping to sponsor your partner into Australia, be prepared to have your application carefully scrutinised by the Government.   Read More

A recent survey in Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Britain, taken by almost 4000 people has found that there is huge support for a system of free movement between these countries, much like the European Union style.  Read More