Australia Unveils New Program for Indian Graduates to Work and Live

Beginning November 1, 2024, the Australian government will introduce the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES).

This innovative initiative aims to provide 3,000 Indian graduates and early career professionals, aged up to 30, with the opportunity to live and work in Australia for up to two years.

What Is MATES?

The Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES) is a new program created under the MMPA. It allows Indian university graduates and early career professionals to temporarily live and work in Australia. MATES aims to promote a beneficial exchange of skills and knowledge between Australia and India.

Streamlined Visa Process with $25 Ballot

A new $25 ballot system for working and holiday visas will be implemented next financial year for applicants from China, Vietnam, and India. This initiative is designed to expedite processing times and efficiently manage the high demand for these visas.

Also Read: Australia to Impose Limits on International Student Arrivals

Key Details of the MATES Program

Eligibility Criteria:

• Indian nationals aged 30 or younger at the time of application.
• Applicants must not have previously participated in the MATES program.
• Proficient English language skills (overall IELTS or equivalent score of at least 6, with a minimum score of 5 in each part).
• Graduation within two years from an eligible educational institution.
• Holding a qualification (Bachelor’s degree or higher) in targeted fields such as;
  • Renewable Energy
  • Mining
  • Engineering
  • ICT
  • AI
  • FinTech
  • AgriTech

Successful applicants will enter a ballot for a fee of AUD 25. Those selected will then pay an additional AUD 365 for the visa, with both fees subject to future adjustment based on the consumer price index.

Benefits and Opportunities

1. Permitted Activities

MATES participants will have the freedom to live and work in Australia for up to two years. While there is no strict requirement to work in their nominated field of study, the program is designed to help young professionals expand their skills and networks, particularly in the specified sectors.

2. Bringing Family

Participants can apply to bring dependants (spouses and dependent children) who will have work rights in Australia and will not count towards the annual cap of 3,000 places.

3. Visa Validity and Entry

Visa holders will have 12 months to make their first entry into Australia and may stay for 24 months from the date of first entry. The visa allows multiple entries to Australia.

4. Extension Possibility

Participants may extend their stay in Australia by applying for another visa that permits temporary or permanent residence, provided they meet all eligibility requirements for that visa. However, MATES participants are not eligible to take part in the scheme more than once.

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Visa Costs

Details about the visa subclass and associated application fees will be available soon. Applicants will be responsible for additional costs related to their application, including English language testing fees. An additional fee may apply for adding dependent family members to the MATES application.

Official Announcement

The Australian Federal Budget, released on May 14, confirmed the launch date for the MATES Migration Scheme. This scheme, part of the broader Australia-India Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MMPA) signed on May 23, 2023, offers a significant new mobility pathway for skilled Indian professionals.

No Employer Sponsorship Required

There is no requirement for sponsorship by an Australian employer to apply for a visa under the MATES program, making it more accessible for young professionals.

Conclusion

The MATES program, set to open for applications in late 2024, represents an exciting opportunity for Indian professionals to advance their careers and gain international experience in Australia. For more detailed information on the MATES Migration Scheme, potential applicants can refer to the official notification by the Australian Government.