Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced that the government has withdrawn its extradition treaty with Hong Kong.
This decision was made in view of the establishment of the National Security Law by China.
He said that visas will be extended by five years for “skilled and graduate” visa holders from Hong Kong along with permanent residency at the end of those five years.
Students who already have a temporary graduate visa will be eligible for an extension of five years along with the time they have already been in.
Students studying at a regional campus will continue to access the pathway to permanent residency after three years.
He also announced that new incentives will be developed to bring export-oriented Hong Kong-based businesses to relocate to Australia. In addition, their staff will have access to permanent visa pathways. This will be done via the Global Talent and Business Innovation and Investments Program.
Concerning temporary skilled visas, these visa holders who hail from Hong Kong and are in Australia currently will be eligible for an additional five years in the country, also with access to permanent residency at the end of the five-year term.
Future applicants for temporary skilled visas will be eligible or the same if they meet a list of criteria.
They need to meet occupational skills lists and Labour Market Testing requirements; or qualify via the Global Talent visa scheme. However, the latter is for exceptional talent where the sponsoring employer pays above $153,600 (Fair Work High Income Threshold).
Currently, there are about 10,000 skilled and graduate temporary student visa holders in Australia.