With a commitment of making the Australian migration advice industry world class, the Government has implemented various initiatives towards achieving this vision.Recently, the Department of Home Affairs has initiated a review of the legislative framework to examine how they can support ‘a highly qualified and professional industry’ and ensure combating misconduct and unlawful operators effectively.
The Department has released a Discussion Paper which highlights key considerations for review of legislative framework, including qualification standards to practice as a Registered Migration Agent, disciplinary actions and penalties for unlawful migration assistance, registration of Migration Agents, and the functions of the OMARA, and measures to strengthen consumer protection.
Jason Wood, Assistant Minister for Customs, Community Safety and Multicultural Affairs said, “I intend to work with agents to build the industry's reputation and ensure a robust regulatory migration advice framework that prevents misconduct and unlawful advice…This review will support the development of initiatives to combat serious misconduct by registered agents and unlawful providers, and thereby protect consumers and build confidence in the industry”.
The Department is seeking industry feedback and is accepting submissions online until 2pm AEST, 27 July 2020.
To see the Discussion Paper, click here.
