The federal government has introduced new visas to meet migrant needs surrounding family reunion, aged care and religious worship.
Federal Immigration Minister David Coleman has announced three new visa categories with the general election fast approaching.
A new temporary Sponsored Parent Visa will allow migrants to bring their parents and grandparents to Australia for longer periods.
The applicants will be allowed to spend time with their families for a continuous period of up to five years, with the opportunity to apply for a second visa for another five years after a short period outside Australia.
Under the new authorisation up to 15,000 temporary Sponsored Parent Visa may be granted each year.
But the new parent visa is being seen as an expensive deal by some from the migrant community.
It will cost migrants $5000 for a three-year visa, $10,000 for a five-year visa and $20,000 for a ten-year visa.
Along with visa fees, children will have to bear the healthcare of any other outstanding public health costs for their migrant parents.
The government has also introduced new changes to the Minister of Religion Labour Agreement, allowing more flexibility in sponsoring overseas workers.
The federal immigration minister has also announced a third new class of visa which will allow aged care providers to employ people with the skills needed to care for elder migrants.
