Minimum salary increase for skilled workers

The minimum salary level (MSL) for occupations that are eligible for the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) has increased by 3.8 per cent from August 1.

The MSL increase for the ENS follows the recent announcement by the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, of a similar increase to the MSL for the subclass 457 visa program.

The ENS is a common pathway to permanent residence for skilled workers who are working in Australia on a temporary basis, such as 457 visa holders.

The MSL changes will ensure the program closely aligns with the 457 program and helps to maintain the integrity of Australia’s skilled migration programs.

The standard MSL will increase to $43 440, while the MSL for ICT professionals will increase to $59 477.

These increases will only apply to positions that are nominated under the ENS from August 1.

Existing ENS visa holders, as well as employer nominations for positions lodged before August 1, will not be affected by the MSL increase.

Source: www.immi.gov.au