EXPLANATORY STATEMENT

Migration Regulations 1994

SPECIFIED COUNTRIES

(PARAGRAPH 2.25A(1)(b))

1. This Instrument is made under paragraph 2.25A(1)(b) of the Migration Regulations 1994 (‘the Regulations’).
2. Paragraph 2.25A(1)(b) of the Regulations provides that in determining whether an applicant satisfies the criteria for the grant of a visa, the Minister must seek the opinion of a Medical Officer of the Commonwealth as to whether the person meets certain requirements of Schedule 4, unless the application is for a permanent visa that is made from a country that is a country specified by Gazette Notice.
3. The purpose of the Instrument is to extend Local Clearance to the following countries:

4.                  The Instrument operates to include the additional countries which are able to clear the necessary medical examinations undertaken for the purpose of meeting Australia’s health requirement.  As a result, visa applicants from those additional countries will benefit from streamlined visa processing where the necessary medical examinations indicate that the applicant does not have a disease or condition that is likely to pose a health risk, or significant cost to Australians, or affect the access of Australians to health services or procedures that are in short supply. 

5. Pursuant to section 18 of the Legislative Instruments Act 2003 consultation was not necessary.  The Instrument is of a minor or machinery nature and does not substantially alter existing arrangements.

6. The Office of Best Practice Regulation was consulted in relation to the new points test and has advised that a Regulatory Impact Statement is not required (OBPR Reference 13189).

7. The Instrument, IMMI 11/072, commences on 5 November 2011.