MATES Scheme

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Context:

• The Australian Federal Budget Document announced the start date for the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES) for Indian Nationals.

MATES:

• Under the MATES scheme, Indian graduates and early career professionals (aged 18 to 30) with knowledge and skills in specific fields of study will be offered a new temporary mobility pathway to live and work in Australia for up to two years.
• It was established under the Australia-India Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement, co-signed by both nations on 23 May 2023.
• It will commence as a pilot with 3,000 places for primary applicants per program year.
• Eligible fields will include renewable energy, mining, engineering, information and communication technology, artificial intelligence, financial technology, and agricultural technology.

Benefits:

• MATES participants will be able to live and work in Australia for up to 2 years. Participants may extend their period of stay in Australia by applying for another visa permitting temporary or permanent residence, provided they meet all eligibility requirements for the visa.
• Participants will be able to apply to bring dependants (spouses and dependent children). Dependants will have work rights in Australia, and will not count towards the annual cap.
• It will give Indian university graduates and early career professionals the opportunity to live and work in Australia for up to two years, and to gain employment and valuable experience in their areas of expertise.
• The scheme will also benefit Australian industry sectors and businesses by enhancing their access to some of India’s most talented graduates with in-demand knowledge and skills.

INDIA AUSTRALIA RELATIONS

https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/india-australia-relations-7#:~:text=Australia's%20relationship%20with%20India%20is,first%20High%20Commissioner%20to%20India.

Source:

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/education/news/australian-mates-scheme-to-facilitate-mobility-of-indian-early-career-professionals-eligibility-and-other-key-components-explained/articleshow/110123224.cms

https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/news-subsite/files/mates-fact-sheet.pdf