A major multi-agency operation is targeting scam migration agents who have ripped off vulnerable visa applicants of more than $1.4 million.
Field Operations officers from the Department of Home Affairs, supported by Commonwealth partners, are investigating agents giving unlawful migration advice, particularly targeting people applying for Protection (subclass 866) visas.
These scam migration agents have allegedly been charging excessive fees while encouraging applicants to make fake claims to secure bridging visas with work rights.
So far, officers from Home Affairs’ Field Operations and Sponsoring Monitoring Branch have removed four major scam migration agents illegally operating in Victoria and Queensland and detained a further three pending removal.
These seven individuals are known to have facilitated more than 470 alleged fake Protection visa applications, charging clients a combined total of up to $1,422,000 despite knowing the applicants were not eligible asylum seekers.
The investigation has also uncovered potential links to organised crime syndicates.
Commander John Taylor, Field Operations and Sponsoring Monitoring, said, “If you engage in this sort of unlawful activity, chances are you have been reported and we are coming for you.”
“Don’t do it. We simply will not tolerate scammers taking advantage of the hopes and fears of vulnerable people,”
he said.
Authorities also warned applicants themselves against making false Protection visa claims, which carry heavy fines and potential jail terms.
“Scam agents may tell you to provide false information or documents when applying for a Protection visa. But this activity is illegal and could result in large fines and possible jail time for up to 10 years,”
said Lavinia Mitchell, Assistant Secretary, Citizenship and Humanitarian Policy Branch.
She advised applicants to engage only registered migration agents or seek free legal help from specialist refugee and immigration providers listed on the Department of Home Affairs website.
The operation will continue over the coming months, targeting more scam agents.
Ms Mitchell also highlighted the broader impact of scam agents, noting that false Protection visa claims slow down the system for genuine asylum seekers.
“Home Affairs has made big changes to the Protection visa process, speeding up approvals for those in need while swiftly refusing ineligible applications,”
she said.
Emily Winch, Senior Director of the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA), reminded the public that it is illegal for unregistered individuals to charge for migration advice. Visa applicants are encouraged to verify agents through OMARA’s Self-Service Portal before engaging or paying for services.
Authorities say Australia remains committed to protecting vulnerable applicants, preserving the integrity of the visa system, and ensuring fair access for genuine Protection visa applicants.
Anyone with information on potential immigration offences can report it online via Border Watch, anonymously if preferred.
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