Median Wage Set to Rise

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On 28 February 2024 the median wage increases from $29.66 to $31.61 an hour for the assessment of the following type of visa applications:

• Skilled Migrant (points system) residence category

• Greenlist – Tier 1 - Straight to Residence

• Greenlist Tier 2 – Work to Residence

• Transport Sector – Work to Residence (excluding bus drivers)

• Parent Residence category – sponsors income

The increased median wage does NOT apply to existing (already lodged) or new Accredited Employer Work Visa applications (AEWV). The rate of $29.66 an hour continues to apply to new AEWV applications. The increased wage rate also does not apply to:

• Variation of Conditions to an AEWV (changing jobs or employers)

• Partners of AEWV holders

• Interim Visas issued under the Skilled Migrant category

• Migrant Exploitation visas

Employees may approach the business for an increased wage rate if they intend to apply for residence. The way the median wage in assessed in the various residence categories is complex. In some cases $31.66 an hour is sufficient but in other cases a person may need to be earning 1.5 times or up to 3 times the median wage to qualify for residence! Take advice.