Australia and New Zealand Immigration News

On 9 July 170 people from more than 40 countries became Australian citizens in ceremonies across the country.

"On the occasion that marks Australia's creation as a nation, it is fitting to celebrate citizenship, the glue that holds our culturally diverse population together," Department of Immigration and Citizenship Secretary Andrew Metcalfe said.

G'dayUK is a series of events that will show visitors what it is like to live in Australia. It will cover four main areas:Migration and tourismTrade & investmentFood & wine,

The event will highlight the unique range of skills, resources and opportunities offered by Australia.

The number of 457 visas issued in the period 2007 to 2008 went up by 27 percent:

Further changes to the 457 visa program took place on 15 May 2009. This has resulted in the removal of some occupations from the standard sponsorship arrangements.

Occupations affected by the changes include those in the following industries:

Tourism Clerical Agricultural

This follows on from changes to the 457 program of 14 April 2009 when there was an increase in the Engllish language requirements.

From 14 April 2009 the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) raised the language requirement for all subclass 457 trades and chef applicants. There had been concerns about the exploitation of workers from non-English speaking countries.

Australian immigration officials have stated that there are no special Australian programs for Tamil Sri Lankans or internally displaced people in the north of Sri Lanka.