A noticeable change in the quantity of 457 applications could be indicative of the response to the visa and occupation list changes. Changes to the 457 visa announced in 2017 are set to make the migration process increasingly difficult, which is causing concern amongst employers and migrants alike. The change in quantity of visa applications could be due to a change in workforce demand; however experts have their suspicions that it is actually a response to the visa changes that will come into effect on March 1st. It is concerning the reduction this change has already caused, considering the changes have not actually come into effect yet, and many are wondering will the skilled visa applications continue to dwindle in 2018? Forecasters have predicted that they will, as prices increase and permanent residency prospects decrease.
Source: Sydney Morning Herald