By Dani Matthews, Co-Founder & Chief Growth Officer, Abundium
In collaboration with Fragomen
As a beneficiary of the Australian visa system, immigration is a topic close to my heart.
The recent Fragomen Australia Immigration Conference provided critical insights into the shifting immigration and mobility landscape, emphasising compliance, geopolitical trends, and workforce strategy. Given Australia’s place in global operations, speakers ranged from the Australian partner and leadership group, Asia partners and also Fragomen’s US based Co-Chairman.
Here are a summary of key takeaways relevant to multinational leaders:
australia’s migration strategy:
A dedicated panel explored Australia’s evolving migration strategy, including the upcoming Skills in Demand Visa (due to be effective in the new year). This visa features three pathways—specialist, core, and essential skills—designed to adapt more readily to shifting workforce and market conditions. Further changes to the skilled and other programs are expected in 2025.
rising labour market testing across APAC:
Labour market testing (LMT) is increasing across the region, with countries like Singapore (COMPASS system), Malaysia, and the Philippines introducing stricter measures. Vietnam is expected to follow suit. In Singapore, employers must meet criteria like salary and diversity to attract high-quality talent. At the same time, innovative visa solutions are being proposed and implemented to target certain sectors and profiles. China was an interesting country that was spoken about, with China attempting to increase investment and ease entry for certain nationals (such as Australians) who seek to do business in China.
compliance under scrutiny:
Immigration compliance is undergoing significant review. Governments are digitising systems to improve oversight and quickly identify breaches. For instance, remote work arrangements for Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa holders can create tax, visa, and permanent establishment risks. While remote work is a valuable retention tool, businesses must carefully balance flexibility with compliance requirements.
digital transformation in immigration:
Across the globe, digitisation is transforming immigration programs. Fragomen, in partnership with Accenture, is integrating predictive data systems, while Europe plans to implement digital wallets by 2026 to streamline travel and identification processes, as well as hold in the future more dynamic credentialing of skills to support faster movement and registration in the country of settlement. These innovations promise efficiency but also bring increased scrutiny.
geopolitical and economic shifts:
A panel addressed the global lurch to the right in countries like the US, Austria, Germany, and Hungary, as well as its implications for immigration policies. A caution was shared after the recent US election that businesses should prepare for potential travel bans, extreme vetting, and stricter visa policies. Processing times are also expected as a result to lengthen.
addressing talent needs in APAC:
By 2035, it is predicted APAC’s working-age population will reach 3.3 billion, yet demand for high-skilled talent continues to rise. A recent Mckinsey article predict China will need 6 million AI talented workers by 2030. We heard on a Fragomen client panel that flexible options, like digital nomad visas or PR pathways, are vital for attracting and retaining top talent while meeting compliance obligations. Programs that also address business needs across the range of skilled and lower level skilled roles was also discussed.
balancing long-term change with short-term cycles:
A recurring challenge is how to make generational, long-term change within short-term government cycles. On the positive side, the Australian government has shown a willingness to listen and consult. Fragomen actively facilitates this through research and engagement, ensuring client perspectives shape policy discussions.
talent beyond boundaries:
A particularly inspiring highlight was learning that Talent Beyond Boundaries, a nonprofit connecting refugee talent with corporates and a valued member of our Abundium Impact Community, have established a talent catalogue. This initiative reframes refugees not as a cost but as a benefit to society, which I’ve seen firsthand, while helping corporates access a valuable and often-overlooked talent pool.
shaping australia’s future immigration policy:
A key takeaway was the urgent need for a holistic approach to immigration. Australia requires a population policy that complements migration policy and fosters collaboration with states and territories to design effective settlement projects. Where do we see ourselves as a society, a collective, and a nation? These questions must guide the future of Australia’s immigration system.
a holistic approach to immigration:
It’s not just about bringing in skills; it’s about bringing in community and families. Immigration programs that balance workforce needs with strong social integration are essential for building a thriving, inclusive society.
For those navigating this complex landscape, we learnt compliance is paramount. The Australian Border Force’s increased audits and visits reinforce the importance of proactive compliance with immigration programs.
If this topic resonates with you, we encourage you to connect with Teresa Liu, Managing Partner, Fragomen Australia & New Zealand, and her team for expert insights and support. We’re grateful to have them as part of the Abundium multinational community.
Immigration isn’t just about moving people; it’s about shaping the future of our organisations and societies.
Let’s be the change Australia!
resources:
- Fragomen alerts: Australia
- To register for Fragomen's webinars and events, and to receive updates on immigration changes, subscribe here.
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