chels

I've just been reading about the proposed changes to applications for Australian citizenship. One of the changes relates to the change from a two year residence requirement to a three year requirement. However, one of the proposed new exemptions to this requirement is:

time spent in Australia as a temporary entrant engaged in activities beneficial to the interests of Australia may be treated as time spent in Australia as a permanent resident, provided the applicant has been in Australia as a permanent resident for a total period of at least 1 year

My question is - and there may not be an answer to it - is what exactly does the Australian Government mean when it talks about 'beneficial activities'?

We have been in Australia for two years on a temporary visa, now have PR. Under the current system, we have to wait a further two years before we can apply for citizenship. Under the proposed new system, could we apply sooner? Does moving to Australia to 'boost its economy' count as 'beneficial activities' (other half was sponsored to come over here and show 'em how it it's done back in England!)

Thanks in advance, if anyone does know the answer!

JAJ

Currently "activities beneficial to Australia" is interpreted narrowly, where people are seeking a concession on the 2 years residence requirement.

However DIMA have said to the Senate that it will be quite broadly interpreted under the new law for former temporary residents who have subsequently obtained PR. Specifically, it ought to apply to people who have spent time on a temporary spouse visa.

And the credit will be 2 years (out of 3), not 1. That was an early misunderstanding.

That's all that's known for now. Wait and see how the new law works if it comes in next year.

chels

Thanks JAJ - if it does become more broadly interpreted, it will be good news for us. We'll wait and see