Migration agents assist people to migrate to Australia by using their knowledge of Australian visas and immigration law to complete necessary visa applications[1] and represent them in dealings with the Department of Home Affairs (previously the Department of Immigration and Citizenship), the tribunals, the minister, federal courts and high courts of Australia.
On 9 February 2009, after a review,[7] the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, announced new arrangements to govern migration agents.
[9] Key objectives are to ensure that: Migration agents registered before July 2006 were not required to undertake any formal studies.
[10] All registered migration agents are required to complete approved continuing professional development (CPD) each year prior to re-registration.
[12] The office has the power to place sanctions on agents who they determine do not act either ethically, honestly, legally or in the best interests of their clients.