States urged to support regulations for health waiver
Wednesday 26 November 2008
The Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, today urged state and territory leaders to support Migration Regulations which will allow for a possible waiver of the health requirement for certain permanent visa applicants in areas of demonstrated need.
If the states and territories agree, a waiver will be available for onshore applicants and their dependents who do not meet the health requirement for regional, state/territory and employer sponsored visa categories.
Senator Evans said the regulations will enable the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) to waive the health requirement after seeking input from the states and territories in cases where there is a public interest in the applicant gaining permanent residency in Australia.
‘The waiver for the health requirement will be available on a case by case basis where an overseas worker in Australia is meeting a demonstrated skill need and where there are compelling or compassionate circumstances,’ Senator Evans said.
‘This will assist people who are who are already living and working in Australia and providing a valuable service in their community but currently are not eligible for permanency because they do not meet the health requirement.’
Health waivers are currently only available for some family and humanitarian visa classes.
‘I urge the states and territories to now agree to the enabling of these regulations to assist people seeking regional, state/territory or employer sponsored visas,’ Senator Evans said.
All applicants for permanent visas must meet the health requirement and any health or community care issue with significant cost implications can to lead to the health requirement not being met and a visa being refused.
When assessing the health requirement, the estimated cost to the public health system is taken into account, along with state-related costs such as special educational needs, assisted accommodation and community care.
‘The amended regulations will provide the department with the flexibility and the discretion to waive the health requirement after seeking the views of the state or territory,’ Senator Evans said.
URL: http://www.minister.immi.gov.au
/media/media-releases/2008/ce08114.htm
Last update: 26 November 2008 at 17:24 AEST