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Australia and New Zealand Immigration News

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New figures released for Australia's humanitarian visa program
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Australian Immigration Minister Chris Bowen has released new figures stating that 13,759 visas were issued under Australia's humanitarian program last year.
Indians and Chinese largest sources of permanent migrants to Australia
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For the first time ever, India was Australia's largest source of permanent immigrants this year, with a total of 29,018 places or 15.7 percent of the total migration program, according to Immigration Minister Chris Bowen. The second largest source of immigrants was China at 25,509 followed by 25,274 from the UK.
UN urges Australia to ease visa rules
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UN World Tourism Organisation secretary-general Taleb Rifai has urged Australia to relax its strict visa requirements for visitors from developing countries, saying it could help Australia boost tourism. Rifai added that there was no evidence to show that tough entry conditions for foreign tourists were necessary for security related reasons. He urged Australia and other developed countries to ease their tight visitor visa rules.
Priority processing available for Australian skilled migration visas
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Australian Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Chris Bowen, has announced from 1 July 2012, new priority processing arrangements will be in place for certain skilled migration visas.
Australia creates skilled migration advisory council
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Australian Immigration Minister Chris Bowen has announced the creation of the Ministerial Advisory Council on Skilled Migration (MACSM) which will provide the Australian government with expert advice on the role of skilled migration in the Australian economy.
Australia lowers visa passmark - more skilled immigration
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We are happy to report that it is now easier for UK workers and others to immigrate to work in Australia since the Australian government has lowered the current pass mark for their SkillSelect program. Australian immigration announced last month that the pass mark to qualify for EOI - SkillSelect would be lowered to 60 points from 1 July 2012. Previously, applicants needed a points score of 65 points to meet the requirements for skilled immigration.