As members are aware, changes to the Global Talent Independent program now prevent Masters and Honours students from receiving an invitation, based solely on their academic qualifications.

This policy change affects all future EOI assessments, and applies to EOI submissions made by candidates who have not yet received an invitation to the Global Talent program by 20 January 2021.

EOI candidates who submitted an EOI prior to the policy changes and have not been invited are encouraged to review their eligibility and to consider applying again when they meet the new requirements.

New eligibility requirements:

Applicants must demonstrate that they are highly skilled in one of the target sectors and:

  • prove they are internationally recognised with evidence of outstanding and exceptional achievements
  • still be prominent in their field of expertise
  • provide evidence that they would be an asset to Australia, in their field of expertise
  • have no difficulty obtaining employment in Australia or becoming established in their field
  • have a recognised organisation or individual in Australia endorse them as global talent, in the same field as the applicant.

Applicants must meet a high standard and show an exceptional track-record of professional and outstanding achievements. This may include senior roles, patents, professional awards, international publications, media articles and international memberships.

Applicants should have the ability to attract a salary at or above the Fair Work high income threshold.

In assessing the applicant the Department considers:

  • current salary shown through payslips or a contract, or
  • future job offers outlining remuneration, or
  • recent PhD graduates and certain PhD students with relevant qualifications in the target sectors.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.