Australia and New Zealand Immigration News

Access Economics says that the South Australian economy is likely to continue to grow. However, Australia overall may see a downturn after what has in recent years been significant growth based on a commodities boom.

The report predicts that the state's economy will grow 2.3 per cent this financial year, 2.9 per cent next year and 3.8 per cent in 2010-11.

The new Australian online visa system makes it possible lodge, check the status and check visa entitlements online at any time through the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) service. Visa holders no longer need a visa label attached to their passport to travel to or work in Australia.

One of Australian sport's highest profile administrators will head the new Australian Multicultural Advisory Council, says Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans.

AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou will chair the 16-member council which. It is hoped that this will bring new cultural diversity perspectives to the Australian Government.

The Australian migration program for the second half of 2008-09 has changed so that skilled migrants who have a confirmed job, or have skills in critical need will be given priority for a permanent visa to come to Australia.

Despite the global financial crisis, Australia's Immigration Minister Chris Evans has indicated that he expects only modest cuts in next years migrant intake program which is currently at an all time high, with Australia taking more than 200 000 new immigrants per year.

From 08 December 2008, 300 places will be made available for Brazilians aged 18 - 30 who wish to take a long holiday in New Zealand with the option to work. The Brazil Working Holiday Scheme is part of a joint effort between the governments of New Zealand and Brazil to raise awareness of each other's culture.