Local residents in the Mid-North Coast will have the opportunity to discuss their immigration issues face-to-face when Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) staff visit the region on October 13 and 14.

The department’s regional visits program was established to allow people outside the capital cities access to experienced immigration officers to discuss specific issues they may have face-to-face.

“People in regional communities have a wide variety of immigration questions, ranging from the skilled migration program which helps small business owners who can’t find experienced local staff, to issues for overseas students or people who want to enquire about sponsorship of family members or citizenship,” a department spokesman said.

“While the department provides information on the Internet and over the phone, some people may not be aware of recent policy changes or they may prefer to speak to officers face-to-face. These visits meet those needs.”

The department particularly wants to encourage people who have been residents of Australia for a long time to consider taking the final step in their immigration journey by becoming an Australian citizen.

Immigration outreach officers can assist people on matters related to citizenship, work visas, visas for family members, partner visas and the process for proposing refugees.

Port Macquarie:

Immigration officers will be available for an appointment in Port Macquarie on October 13 from 2-5pm. Appointments will be at the office of Robert Oakeshott MP, Member for Lyne, 1/75-77 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie. Bookings are essential – phone 02 6584 2911.

Taree:

Immigration officers will be available for an appointment in Taree on October 14 from 10am-midday. Appointments will be at the office of Robert Oakeshott MP, Member for Lyne, Shop 6, Manning Arcade, 20-24 Manning Street, Taree. Bookings are essential – phone 02 6584 2911.

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