Australia May Soon Relax English Language Rules

[caption id="attachment_955" align="aligncenter" width="769"] Federal Government Considering Relaxing of Languages Rules[/caption]

Australian Federal Government is giving a serious thought to relaxing English language rules for visa applicants for 457 visa. The Govt. has taken note of an independent analysis of the scheme and is therefore of the view that language requirements can be relaxed further to bring in more skilled migrants to Australia.

A report released last week had Australian government talking over the issue. Michaelia Cash, Assistant Minister for Immigration, has said that the report included over 190 submissions including one from Australian Mines and Metals Association (AMMA).

The minister referred to Scott Morrison's, Immigration Minister of Australia, latest comments on the subject, in which Mr. Morrison said, " serving more as an industrial lockout rather than an honest attempt to ensure appropriate language skills". "We believe that there are more practical ways to achieve what is needed and move into an averaging system in each of the test components."

The panel report made 22 recommendations, of which language rules is one and close collaboration between Australian Tax Office and Immigration Department is another. The report says that both departments coming together will restrict people from taking unfair advantage of the scheme.

Michaelia Cash added that, "The panel's proposals that support trusted, legitimate sponsors and help them manage their compliance and reporting obligations more effectively whilst making it more difficult for those with dishonest intent to make a fraudulent application are also attractive."

Currently, the language requirements for 457 are measured through International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and by Occupational English Test (OET). Applicants can take either of the two tests to determine their language skills. In case of IELTS, one has to score 5 bands each in all 4 components, and at least a 'B' in OET.

It is almost the same as required for sub-class 190, 489, but relaxing the rules for 457 will come as a great relief to aspiring and eligible candidates who fit 457 visa requirements.

Source: Perth Now

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