English Language Test Requirements for Australian Visas Have Changed
The Department of Home Affairs has announced key updates to the list of approved English language tests and score requirements for visa applications. These updates came into effect from 7 August 2025, and further updates relating to the Skills in Demand (SID) visa (subclass 482) came into effect from 13 September 2025.
NSW Opens Nominations for the National Innovation Visa
New South Wales has officially reopened nominations for the National Innovation Visa, creating an exciting opportunity for exceptional talent, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders who wish to contribute to Australia’s innovation-driven economy.
NSW Family Law Reform Now in Effect (June 2025): Clearer Property Division and Stronger Recognition of Family Violence
As of 10 June 2025, significant amendments to the Family Law Act 1975 have officially come into effect across Australia. Introduced by the Family Law…
Detailed Guide to Australia’s 2025 Low and Midrise Housing Policy Stage 2: Opportunities for Sydney Developers
Background and Implementation Date From February 28, 2025, Australia officially implemented the second stage of the Low and Midrise Housing Policy, aiming to alleviate the…
Australia 2024/2025 Skilled Visa Allocation Update: 190 & 491 State Nomination Overview
The Australian Department of Home Affairs has released the latest skilled visa nomination allocations for the 2024–2025 financial year, covering both the Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated) and Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional – Provisional) visas.
Australian Government Announces New Policy Guidance: Foreign Persons Banned from Buying Established Homes from 1 April 2025
The Australian government has recently introduced a new property policy that will prohibit foreign persons from purchasing established homes (i.e., second-hand properties) in Australia from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2027.
Criminal Lawyer Alex Cao Invited to Participate in Australian Government and SBS Collaboration Project: Understanding Sexual Consent
Alex Cao , the partner of the criminal team at Brightstone Legal, was invited to join other community key-players to participate in the Australian government and SBS collaboration project: educating the community about “sexual consent.”
New Law in 2025: FRCGW Withhold Rate and NSW Surcharges
In 2025, significant changes in tax regulations will take effect in Australia, impacting both foreign investors and property owners in New South Wales (NSW). The…
New Designated Area Migration Agreement for Western Australia
The Western Australian government has successfully negotiated the establishment of a Western Australian Designated Area Migration Agreement (WA DAMA) with the Commonwealth government.
1 July 2024: Upcoming Changes To Australian Immigration
On 1 July 2024, there will be significant changes in the Australian immigration space reflecting the Australian Government’s Migration Strategy and addressing the latest policy intentions outlined in the federal budget.