Changes to skills list as of 1 July 2012
| Four occupations have been removed from the new skills list: | bricklayer, wall and floor tiler, chemist and audiologist. |
| Four new occupations have been added: | optometrist, computer network and systems engineer, metallurgist and mining production manager. |
Changes to the financial thresholds for student visas as of 1 July 2012:
Students are required to show that they have adequate funds to sustain themselves while in Australia:
- applicants for student visas must have the funds required to cover their studies, a return air fare to Australia, plus $18,610 for living expenses.
- The applicant’s partner must have access to $6,514 per year, and $3,720 for their first child.