Immigration Revolution 2025: Position Your Business to Win

Look, if you sponsor migrant workers, July 2025 changed the game. New salary thresholds. Higher fees. Tighter compliance expectations.

I have seen businesses get caught out by changes like this. They assume the old rules still apply. Then a compliance audit hits and suddenly they are scrambling.

Do not let that be you. Here is exactly what shifted and what you need to do about it.

The Salary Threshold Just Jumped to $76,515

From 1 July 2025, the minimum salary for sponsoring a skilled worker is $76,515. That is the new TSMIT (Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold) and CSIT (Core Skills Income Threshold).

If you lodged nominations before 1 July, you are fine. The old threshold applies. But anything lodged after that date? It needs to meet the new number. No exceptions.

Here is the question you need to ask yourself: are any of your sponsored workers earning just above the old threshold? If the answer is yes, you have a problem waiting to happen. Review those salaries now, not when the Department sends you a notice.

Government Fees Went Up Across the Board

Visa application fees increased. Citizenship applications too. Even matters before the Administrative Review Tribunal cost more now.

If you are sponsoring multiple workers, these increases add up fast. Budget accordingly. I have seen businesses blindsided by unexpected costs because they based their projections on last year's fee schedule.

Processing Delays Are Real

If you have been waiting on TSS (Subclass 482) visas, you know exactly what I am talking about. The delays are significant. The Department says they are reallocating resources to clear the backlog and improve processing for the new Skills in Demand visa.

What does that mean for you in practical terms? Plan ahead. If you need a worker in three months, start the process now. Not in two months. Not in six weeks. Now.

I have watched businesses lose candidates because they underestimated processing times. That is a costly mistake you can avoid.

What You Should Be Checking Right Now

Are Your Occupations Still Eligible?

Occupation lists change. Roles that were eligible last year might not be eligible now. Before you nominate anyone, check the current lists. Do not assume anything.

Is Your Sponsorship Still Valid?

Your business sponsorship has an expiry date. If it lapses, you cannot nominate anyone. Full stop. Check when yours expires and plan for renewal well before that date.

Are You Running VEVO Checks?

Every sponsoring employer should be running regular VEVO checks on their visa-holding staff. It is a basic compliance requirement. If someone's visa expires or their work rights change, you need to know immediately.

This is not optional. This is how you protect your business.

What Should You Do Next?

The new financial year is the right time to audit your immigration compliance. Check your sponsorship status. Review your nominated positions. Make sure your salaries meet the new thresholds.

Do not wait for a problem to find you. Find it first.

If you need help reviewing your obligations or planning your workforce strategy, book a consultation. Let us make sure you are compliant before the Department comes knocking.