EXPLANATORY STATEMENT

Migration Regulations 1994

CLASS OF PERSONS

(Subparagraph 1223A(2)(a)(ix))

1. This Instrument is made under subparagraph 1223A(2)(a)(ix) of Schedule 1 to the Migration Regulations 1994 (‘the Regulations’).
2. Subparagraph 1223A(2)(a)(ix) provides that applicants within a class of persons specified in an instrument in writing a visa application charge (VAC) of nil will apply.
3. The purpose of this Instrument is to specify a class of persons that are prescribed a nil VAC when applying for a Subclass 456 Business (Short Stay) visa.
4. The Instrument operates to specify a class of persons, for the purposes of subparagraph 1223A(2)(a)(ix) of Schedule 1 to the Regulations, applying for a Subclass 456 (Business (Short Stay) (Class UC)) visa who is a participant of the 2015 Asian Cup to be held in January 2015, including a Preliminary Draw to be held in October 2012 and any other Asian Cup activities taking place prior to the event.
5. Consultation has taken place between the Department of Immigration and Citizenship, the Office of Sport and Football Federation Australia regarding immigration issues related to the 2015 Asian Cup.
6. The Office of Best Practice Regulation has advised that a Regulation Impact Statement is not required (OBPR Reference 13938).
7. Under section 44 of the Legislative Instruments Act 2003, the Instrument is exempt from disallowance and therefore a Human Rights Statement of Compatibility is not required.
8. The Instrument, IMMI 12/074, commences the day after registration on the Federal Register of Legislative Instruments and will continue until 30 June 2013.