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REFORM:
OUTCOMES OF THE REVIEW RECOMMENDATIONS
Measures to raise English language standards
An important recommendation was made to improve the English language standards of the profession by requiring that those who apply for initial and repeat registration prove they have a prescribed level of English language proficiency. This follows concerns regarding the capacity of all registered migration agents to communicate with a standard of English that would result in a consistent high level of service for consumers. Registered migration agents deal with complex legislation and often present complex submissions when representing their clients.
On 1 January 2010 a higher standard of English proficiency was introduced for initial registration applicants. Significant notice had been provided by the former MARA that this provision would be introduced. The Office of the MARA re-affirmed that this provision would be implemented and provided additional information on equivalencies. The Office of the MARA wrote to stakeholders in September 2009 and updated the relevant information on the website in October 2009.
From 1 January 2010 all initial registration applicants needed to demonstrate a score of seven in the academic version of the IELTS, up from the previous standard of six.
Equivalent requirements were also determined that enable initial registration applicants to evidence their ability to meet the requirement.
The new policy has been administered fairly and flexibly, and where necessary applicants have been given additional opportunities to provide evidence of their English language proficiency. In 2009–10, 171 applicants were subject to the requirements, and none was refused due to the higher standard.
The Office of the MARA is aware that there is concern from some sectors in the profession about the recommendation to extend the higher English language standards to existing registered migration agents. An impact study on the increased English language requirement was commenced in June 2010. The information obtained through the study will be used to inform transition arrangements for the implementation of the recommendation.
