The Australian Government has announced the composition of its new ministry, and for employers navigating workforce shortages with skilled migrant hiring, there’s one key takeaway: no major changes to immigration leadership.
On 12 May 2025, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese released his updated ministerial lineup. While reshuffles can sometimes signal shifts in policy direction, theImmigration and Citizenship portfolio remains consistent, ensuring continued stability for business planning.
Who’s Who in Immigration?
- Tony Burke MP continues in his dual role as Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Immigration and Citizenship. Burke’s ongoing leadership suggests that immigration policies under Labor will continue their current trajectory, with no surprises on the horizon.
- Matt Thistlethwaite MP retains his position as Assistant Minister for Immigration, supporting Burke in navigating Australia’s skilled migration system.
- Julian Hill MP also remains in his role as Assistant Minister for Citizenship, Customs and Multicultural Affairs, an indication of continuity in multicultural engagement and citizenship policy.
What This Means for Employers
For Australian businesses relying on international talent to meet skill shortages particularly in trades, infrastructure, healthcare, and manufacturing, this is welcome news. Consistency in immigration leadership offers reassurance that no sudden policy changes will disrupt planning, application timelines, or visa processing.
With mounting pressure on employers to secure skilled talent amidst local shortages, we’re advising businesses to take advantage of the current policy environment while settings remain predictable.
Stay Informed
As always, we stay across government changes and MIA (Migration Institute of Australia) updates so you don’t have to. If you’d like to understand how these political appointments may influence your workforce strategy or how we can help you secure the skilled workers your business needs get in touch.
Our team of OMARA-registered migration agents and recruitment specialists is here to support your workforce planning in 2025 and beyond.
