Under the program, applicants who are otherwise eligible for a visitor visa may be instructed by a consular officer to post a bond of US$5,000, US$10,000 or US$15,000, with the amount determined at the visa interview.

Australia is grappling with more than 330,000 unfilled jobs across key industries, even as thousands of qualified permanent migrants remain underemployed, new Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data reveals.

The freeze, due to take effect on 21 January, targets people officials say are likely to become a “public charge” by relying on government assistance.

The Freedoms & Rights Coalition leader Brian Tamaki used social media to raise concerns about Khalistan flags he said were being waved during the parade.

“If I am Prime Minister and you are not an Australian citizen, you will be deported. If I am Prime Minister and you are an Australian citizen, you will be arrested.”

The review concluded with a call for CLOs to remain vigilant, working closely with employers, host authorities, and partners to protect the dignity and welfare of all Fijian workers.

"Australia’s world-class settlement services and not-for-profit organisations have played a key role in helping refugee and humanitarian entrants settle in Australia."

Premier Cook argues that such a cut would limit Western Australia’s ability to secure the skilled workers it needs and risk slowing economic growth.

“It’s not a reflection on the individual migrants… It’s a reflection on the fact that we have New Zealanders who are desperate for jobs and need to be given the first opportunity.”

Arjun Agarwal, founder of investment startup Inaam, says such policies impose a silent penalty on ambitious founders who are not yet earning large salaries but are driving innovation and job creation.