The Government of Western Australia has announced it will introduce a new Graduate Skilled Migration List for high-performing post-graduate students, which will make it easier for them to work and stay in WA after their studies.
The initiative is designed to give high achieving education graduates – PhD, Masters, Honours and other higher degree graduates – a pathway to skilled migration.
It is expected the changes will attract an increased number of high-quality international students to the State and help grow its share of the international education market.
“Attracting the best and brightest of international university students represents a major step in our commitment to increasing Western Australia’s share of the international education market,” said the state’s Premier, Mark McGowan. “We need to send a message to the world that we welcome international students, and their friends and families. Perth is an attractive, supportive destination to live, study and work.”
The state’s existing Skilled Migration Occupation List will not be affected, with the policy of not including occupations such as bricklayers, electricians and mechanics remaining in place.
Priority consideration for skilled migration under the State Nominated Migration Program will be granted to the best and brightest international students graduating from WA universities.
The Western Australia Chamber of Commerce and Industry has welcomed the State Government’s move to attract more international student. The Chamber says that WA’s international student commencements declined 13 per cent in the first quarter of 2018 compared to the same period two years ago, and that this change will help numbers to grow once again.
Article published 16th August 2018