On 9th May 2018, the migration amendment (Skilling Australians Fund) Bill 2018 was passed by the Australian Parliament.
What is the Skilling Australians Fund?
The SAF replaces the ‘training benchmark requirements’ that employers had to meet previously. The purpose of SAF to raise money that will be used to fund vocational education and training for Australian workers. The SAF was administrated by the Department of Education and Training. The levy will impact employers sponsoring offshore migrant workers on both temporary and permanent visas.
When will the SAF Levy be implemented?
The Department of Home Affairs has confirmed the Training Levy will commence on Sunday 12th August 2018
Which visas will be affected?
When implemented the SAF Levy will apply to the following visa types:
Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) subclass 186 visa, and
Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) subclass 187 visa, and
Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS) subclass 482 visa
How much will cost?
The amount payable by Australian employers will mostly dependent on sponsor turnover.
Turnover | 186 and 187 Visas PERMANENT | TSS 482 Visa TEMPORARY |
AUD10 million or more | One off payable fee: AUD5000 for each employee | AUD1,800 per year for each employee |
Less than AUD10 million | One off payment: AUD3,000 for each employee | AUD1,200 per year for each employee |