(DDM) – The government of Australia has significantly increased the minimum salary requirement for foreign skilled workers, setting a new benchmark equivalent to about N72.5 million annually.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) confirmed that the new policy affects key migration pathways, particularly employer-sponsored visas, and is aimed at attracting only highly skilled and well-paid professionals into the country.
The revised threshold aligns with Australia’s updated Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT), which determines eligibility for foreign workers under critical visa categories.
Authorities explained that the new salary requirement is designed to protect local workers from wage suppression while ensuring that migrants fill only high-value, skill-intensive roles.
The policy adjustment comes amid growing demand in sectors such as healthcare, engineering, information technology, construction, and education.
Under the new rules, employers seeking to hire foreign workers must now demonstrate that the salary offered meets or exceeds the updated threshold.
This means that only top-tier professionals with significant experience, advanced qualifications, or specialised expertise will qualify.
For Nigerians, the development presents both challenges and opportunities.
While the higher salary requirement may limit access for entry-level applicants, it opens doors for highly skilled Nigerians in critical sectors who can meet global standards.
Professionals in fields like nursing, software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, and mechanical engineering are expected to remain in high demand.
Migration experts advise Nigerians to focus on obtaining internationally recognised certifications, upgrading their skills, and gaining relevant work experience to improve their chances.
They also stress the importance of securing job offers from accredited Australian employers, as employer sponsorship remains a key pathway.
Additionally, applicants are encouraged to improve their English language proficiency through tests such as IELTS or PTE, which are mandatory for most visa categories.
The Australian government has urged all prospective migrants to rely only on official sources for accurate information and application procedures.
For verified details on salary thresholds and skilled migration requirements, applicants can visit:
👉 https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au�
Analysts note that the policy reflects Australia’s shift toward a quality-over-quantity immigration model, prioritising economic contribution over population intake.
However, critics argue that the steep increase could exclude many talented but less financially established candidates from developing countries, including Nigeria.
Despite this, opportunities still exist for Nigerians who can meet the criteria, especially in sectors experiencing labour shortages.
Experts emphasise that with proper planning, skill development, and access to accurate information, qualified Nigerians can still benefit from Australia’s evolving migration system.
As global competition for skilled migration intensifies, the new policy underscores the need for Nigerian professionals to position themselves strategically in the international labour market.
