Become a BAS Agent – Essential Qualifications and Skills

A BAS agent talking to their client discussing about tax.

Becoming a BAS (Business Activity Statement) Agent in Australia offers numerous benefits, particularly for individuals seeking a rewarding career in the fields of bookkeeping or accounting. Due to their exclusive legal permissions, BAS agents can earn up to $120,000 p.a. on average, a 20.8% difference compared to an accountant’s average salary. This agent registration not only increases your earning potential and career opportunities but also enhances your professional credibility. Given all of these benefits, what does it take to become a BAS agent? Let’s find out in this blog! 

 

Main Responsibilities of a BAS Agent 

BAS agents have a range of critical duties, including: 

  • Preparing and Lodging BAS: Managing clients’ GST, PAYG withholding, and PAYG installments. 
  • Payroll Services: Overseeing superannuation and payroll tax obligations. 
  • Compliance Advice: Offering guidance on meeting tax and accounting compliance requirements. 
  • Client Records Maintenance: Ensuring clients’ records are accurate and up to date. 
  • Representation: Acting on behalf of clients in dealings with the ATO for BAS-related matters  

This professional role ensures businesses meet their tax obligations efficiently while freeing up time for clients to focus on other aspects of their operations. 

A BAS agent talking to their client discussing about tax.

Required Qualifications for BAS Agent Registration 

To register as a BAS agent, you must meet specific education and experience requirements set by the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB). These include: 

  • Completing at least a Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping from a recognised training organisation, with courses covering GST and BAS principles. 
  • Accumulating 1,400 hours of relevant work experience in the last four years under the supervision of a registered tax or BAS agent. 

 

Essential Skills for BAS Agents 

Becoming a proficient BAS agent requires a combination of technical, analytical, and interpersonal skills.

1. Attention to Detail

Accurate bookkeeping and compliance are critical in BAS-related tasks. BAS agents must meticulously review invoices, receipts, and financial documents to ensure compliance with Australian taxation laws. Errors in financial records or GST reporting can lead to penalties for clients. 

2. Analytical Thinking

A strong ability to interpret and apply GST laws and other regulations is crucial. Analytical thinking helps BAS agents assess financial data, identify discrepancies, and ensure compliance with legislative requirements. 

3. Communication Skills

BAS agents need excellent communication skills to explain financial and taxation matters in a clear, accessible way. Whether working with small business owners or larger clients, the ability to convey complex information simply is vital.  

 4. Proficiency in Accounting Software

Practical skills in software like MYOB, Xero, and QuickBooks are essential. These tools are widely used for preparing financial statements and lodging BAS.  

 

Why Pursue a Career as a BAS Agent? 

The demand for qualified BAS agents continues to grow as businesses seek professional assistance with compliance and financial management. With a clear career pathway and the opportunity to work flexibly, becoming a BAS agent offers both job security and professional fulfillment. 

 

Start Your Journey to Becoming a BAS Agent Today 

If you’re ready to take the next step towards becoming a BAS agent, GBCA’s agent registration package is the perfect choice. This pathway sets you up to meet requirements established by the TPB with two courses, including the FNS40222 self-paced Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping and FNSSS00004 BAS Agent Registration Skill. Furthermore, the flexibility of these self-paced programs allows you to pursue and advance in your career with ease while managing other commitments.  

Ready to start your journey towards a rewarding career? Reach out to us today via our contact form. 

Childcare Work Placement: What to Expect

A student in early childhood education and care at work placement interacting with children

Work placement is a vital part of any early childhood education and care qualification, offering students hands-on experience in real-life childcare settings. For those pursuing a career in this field, childcare work placement is an opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge, familiarise with practical problem-solving, and gain confidence to progress into the workforce.  

If you are soon to commence your childcare work placement, here are 5 things you can expect! 

 

5 Things to Expect in Childcare Work Placement

1. Hands-on Experience

During your placement, you’ll have the chance to carry out crucial care tasks alongside experienced educators who will support and mentor you. These tasks may range from engaging in children’s play, setting up and organizing activities, assisting with mealtime routines, to reading stories and guiding children through creative art and craft projects.  

These responsibilities will give you the opportunity to get accustomed to the daily rhythms of a childcare setting and apply the knowledge acquired with guidance from your fellow staff members. 

2. Experience Diverse Childcare Settings

According to the Department of Education and Training Victoria, placements are designed to provide aspiring childcare educators with a comprehensive understanding of different educational settings. From daycare centers, kindergartens, to preschools, be prepared to immerse yourself in a variety of childcare environments that will facilitate a versatile skill set.  

A student in early childhood education and care at work placement interacting with children

3. Learn as You Go

As you’re starting out, you might not have the perfect execution of everything. Expect to receive feedback from experienced supervisors throughout your placement, who are willing to mentor, give you guidance, and help you navigate the challenges of working with young children. This supervision is essential for helping you reflect on your practice, improve over time, and reach personal goals along your journey, so be ready to learn with an open mindset. 

4. Developing Key Skills

Expect to develop a wide range of essential skills during your childcare work placement, including: 

  • Childcare program planning: Designing activities that are educational, engaging, and developmentally appropriate. 
  • Communication: Interacting with children, parents, and colleagues to foster a positive learning environment. 
  • Child safety: Ensuring a safe environment by following health and safety regulations. 
  • Observation and reporting: Documenting children’s behavior and development to assess their progress. 

5. Maintaining Professionalism

Even though you might not be fulfilling an official role during your placement, it is crucial to maintain professionalism and a positive attitude. This means arriving on time, dressing appropriately, and adhering to the guidelines and policies of the hosting childcare center. Additionally, being proactive in helping out with tasks and showing enthusiasm for learning will not only help you integrate smoothly into the team but also help you get the most out of your placement experience.  

 

Having a Supported Placement Journey 

Your placement is an invaluable steppingstone towards a rewarding career in early childhood education. It provides you with real-world experience and allows you to network with professionals in the industry, often leading to promising future employment opportunities. 

At GBCA, we understand that securing a placement can be challenging. That’s why we offer comprehensive support throughout your course. We arrange work placements for our students at no extra cost, ensuring you gain the practical experience needed to excel. Additionally, our Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is designed to equip you with the foundational knowledge and skills required to enter the industry with confidence.  

Ready to take the next step in your early childhood education career? Explore our Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care course and reach out today for any enquiries!

Top 5 Bookkeeping Skills in Demand 2024

Bookkeepers are a crucial part for any for businesses, helping maintain accurate financial records and ensure smooth operations. As businesses grow and regulations evolve, the demand for certain bookkeeping skills continues to rise. Whether you’re looking to enter the field or enhance your abilities, here are the top bookkeeping skills that are sought for in a bookkeeper’s resume! 

 

Top Bookkeeping Skills in Demand 2024

 1. Financial Record Keeping

One of the core responsibilities of a bookkeeper is maintaining accurate financial records. This involves tracking expenses, revenue, and ensuring all financial transactions are properly documented. With the rise of digital tools, proficiency in software like Xero, MYOB, and QuickBooks is now essential for efficient record keeping. Accurate records help businesses make informed financial decisions, and this skill is the backbone of successful bookkeeping. 

 2. Understanding of Taxation Rules

Bookkeepers are often tasked with managing tax-related matters for businesses, particularly preparing for tax filing and handling business activity statements (BAS). Knowledge of Australia’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) and tax obligations is crucial for compliance. Bookkeepers who stay updated on tax laws can help businesses avoid penalties and ensure smooth tax reporting. 

3. Payroll Management

Handling payroll is another crucial bookkeeping skill. This includes calculating wages, managing employee benefits, and ensuring correct deductions. A strong grasp of payroll software and compliance with Fair Work regulations is essential for businesses to avoid legal issues. Staying informed on award rates, superannuation, and leave entitlements in Australia is key to payroll accuracy. You can refer to the Fair Work Ombudsman for details on payroll obligations. 

4. Data Analysis and Reporting

Beyond record-keeping, bookkeepers are now expected to provide insightful financial reports. Data analysis is becoming an in-demand skill as businesses require regular updates on their financial health. This includes generating balance sheets, profit and loss statements, and other key reports that provide a clear picture of the business’s financial performance. Proficiency in Excel and accounting software reporting features can significantly improve a bookkeeper’s ability to support strategic decision-making. 

 5. Attention to Detail and Accuracy

The nature of bookkeeping demands a high level of precision. Errors in financial records can lead to significant issues, including incorrect tax filings or payroll errors. Attention to detail ensures accuracy in tracking and reconciling transactions, which helps avoid financial discrepancies. This skill is non-negotiable for every professional bookkeeper, and developing it can set you apart in the field. 

 

Develop Your Bookkeeping Skills with GBCA’s Self-Paced Course 

As the demand for highly skilled bookkeepers grows, there’s no better time to invest in your education. The self-paced Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping program offered by GBCA provides a flexible way to develop these in-demand skills while working at your own pace. The course is nationally accredited, and with experienced trainers from the industry, you’ll gain hands-on experience in bookkeeping practices that meet industry standards.  

Reach out and start your journey to becoming a qualified bookkeeper today!

Top 5 Advantages of Being an Interpreter 2024

Choosing a career as an interpreter offers a unique blend of challenges and rewards, making it an appealing path for many. Let’s explore the top 5 advantages that come with being an interpreter. 

Top 5 Advantages of Being an Interpreter 2024

1. Rewarding Work

Interpreters play a crucial role in bridging language gaps, enabling clear communication between people from different linguistic backgrounds. They possess the proficiency that can help minimise language barriers as well as the frustration that could come with it.  

By helping others connect and understand each other, interpreters often find their work fulfilling, knowing they’ve contributed to effective communication and societal harmony.

2. Growing Demand

As Australia becomes increasingly multicultural, the demand for interpreters is on the rise. With over 20% of Australians speaking a language other than English at home, interpreters are essential for facilitating communication in various sectors.  

Languages such as Mandarin, Arabic, Korean, Vietnamese, and Spanish are particularly in demand. This evolving multicultural landscape creates abundant opportunities for interpreters, making it a promising career path in Australia. 

3. Travel Opportunities

Interpreting can open doors to global travel, depending on your sector. Whether working with international businesses, government bodies, or as a freelance interpreter, there are many opportunities to travel for work, allowing you to explore the world while advancing your career. 

4. Intellectual Stimulation

A career in interpreting is mentally stimulating, requiring constant learning and adaptation. Staying updated on language trends and new terminology keeps your mind sharp. 

 Additionally, studies show that being bilingual or multilingual may delay the onset of dementia in individuals. Language acquisition may also improve memory and concentration, making this career both rewarding and beneficial for cognitive health. 

5. Flexible Scheduling

Interpreting offers flexibility, especially for freelancers who can set their own schedules. This allows for a healthy work-life balance, enabling interpreters to pursue other interests and commitments outside of work. 

 

Begin Your Interpreting Career with GBCA 

From its rewarding nature to the increasing demand, interpreting is a dynamic career choice. If you’re looking to embark on this path, GBCA’s Diploma of Interpreting (Mandarin-English) and Advanced Diploma of Interpreting are designed to equip you with the practical skills to ensure you meet the high industry standards.  

With the prestigious NAATI accreditation, you’ll be well-prepared for a rewarding career in interpreting, gaining recognition that enhances your employability both in Australia and internationally. 

Ready to learn and start your rewarding journey as an interpreter? Reach out to us today! 

Top 5 Responsibilities of a Support Worker in Australia 

A disability or aged care support worker holding the hands of an elderly client

Embarking on a career as a support worker is both rewarding and impactful. However, it comes with great responsibilities for the individuals you support. In this blog, we will explore the five main responsibilities and obligations of support staff working in aged care or disability care. Keep reading to find out more!  

1. Personal Care and Support

Support workers assist clients with personal tasks they may not be able to do independently, always with the utmost respect. These tasks may include hygiene activities such as showering, toileting, and dressing, and helping clients maintain their appearance. Additionally, support workers often assist with domestic tasks like cooking, cleaning, and meal preparation, and they may accompany clients to appointments and outings. 

It is crucial for support workers to avoid judgement or belittlement. Their primary goal is to make everyday tasks easier and help care receivers lead the lives they want. 

2. Emotional and Social Support

A support worker’s responsibilities extend beyond completing daily tasks; they also provide emotional and social support. By creating a safe and secure environment, support workers allow care receivers to relax, discuss their issues, and feel understood. This environment fosters open communication, enabling support workers to offer advice and emotional support. 

Support workers should be able to identify triggers and stressors affecting their clients and propose coping strategies where appropriate. Additionally, they can provide social support by organising outings, such as trips to the supermarket, or group activities, like park visits, to foster friendships and social connections.

A disability or aged care support worker holding the hands of an elderly client

3. Promoting Independence

While assisting with daily tasks is important, support workers also have the responsibility to impart knowledge and skills that help care receivers develop independence. Encouraging decision-making and collaboration is key to this process. 

Support workers should lead with positivity, as emotions like hope and happiness are contagious and can make it easier for individuals to embrace change and build independence. This responsibility is vital for enhancing the quality of life of those they support and aiding them in improving their prospects.

4. Documentation and Reporting

Support workers are required to keep up-to-date documentation and reports, including incident reports, medication logs, concerns, progress made by the client, and relevant interactions. Accurate documentation is essential for planning future care and making informed decisions. As support workers are legally responsible for providing truthful and accurate documentation, it is essential that these reports are current and correct.

5. Healthcare Support

Support workers may assist with the administration of medication, interpreting medication charts, checking dosage requirements, maintaining hygiene and safety, and avoiding medication errors. The scope of healthcare responsibilities can vary but may include ensuring that clients take their necessary medication. 

As we have shared, the five main responsibilities of a support worker encompass multiple aspects and require a diverse skill set. If you are an aspiring caregiver, it is essential to undergo a training program that equips you with the necessary knowledge and skills. Enrol in GBCA’s Certificate III in Individual Support and Certificate IV in Disability Support to embark on a rewarding career as a support worker today!

Individual Support Worker in Victoria: Salary and Rates 2024

An individual support worker in her blue uniform taking care of an elderly woman

Are you aspiring to kickstart a meaningful and rewarding career as an Individual Support Worker in Victoria, Australia? Keep reading to explore the occupational scope and earning potential of support workers in aged or disability care. 

A Support Worker’s Scope of Work 

An Individual Support Worker in Victoria plays a crucial role in the healthcare system, providing assistance to people with disabilities, the elderly, or those in need of personal care due to medical conditions. Their duties can range from helping with daily activities such as dressing, bathing, and eating to providing companionship and emotional support. They may also be responsible for medication management, coordinating with healthcare professionals, and helping clients to maintain their independence. 

The responsibilities of an individual support worker require a compassionate nature, patience, and a deep understanding of the unique needs of each client. This work is not only about physical assistance but also about enhancing the quality of life for those they serve. It is a role that demands dedication and a personal touch, making it both challenging and rewarding. 

An individual support worker in her blue uniform taking care of an elderly woman

How Much Does a Support Worker Earn? 

According to governmental data, a support worker makes a weekly salary of $854.00 on average. However, the salary of an Individual Support Worker can vary significantly with their level of experience and qualifications. Generally, those who are just starting in the profession may earn a lower wage, which increases with time and the accumulation of practical experience. According to the NDIS pay arrangements, the hourly rate for support workers ranges from $29.25 to $49.95 depending on experience level.  

Professional certifications and specialised training can also elevate an individual’s earning potential, as they demonstrate a higher level of expertise and commitment to the field. The Global Business College of Australia (GBCA) offers care training certificate programs such as the Certificate III in Individual Support and Certificate IV in Disability Support, which provides practical knowledge and hands-on experience through work placement. Check out these programs if you want to get a head start on your career as a support worker. 

Furthermore, how much you can earn as a disabled or aged carer also depends on type of employer, and the nature of the work. For instance, a care staff working in the Community Services & Development industry may expect wages on the higher end ($63,843 per annual average), while those working within Hospitality & Tourism might expect salary on the lower end ($55,120 per annual average). Those working for private organisations or in metropolitan areas may also see higher wages compared to their counterparts in rural settings or within public sector roles. 

Additional Benefits and Perks for Individual Support Workers 

Beyond the base salary, individual support workers in Victoria may enjoy a variety of additional benefits and perks that contribute to their total remuneration package. These can include superannuation contributions, paid leave entitlements, professional development opportunities, and flexible working arrangements. Some employers may also offer health insurance, travel allowances, and support for further education. 

As the demand for individual support workers is consistently growing, the role of an individual support worker is becoming even more crucial. Embark on a rewarding career today in helping to improve others’ quality of life. 

Federal Budget 2024: Positive News for Aged Care Workers

an aged care worker with an elderly woman

In the recently unveiled Federal Budget 2024-2025, the Australian government has taken measures to address the ongoing needs of the aged care sector. With a focus on improving the quality of elderly care and ensuring welfare for care workers, positive implements have been introduced to sustain and support the aged care system in Australia. Here’s what you need to know as an aged care worker! 

an aged care worker with an elderly woman

Wage increases for aged care workers 

A budget of $11.3 billion has been assigned to support a 15 per cent wage increase for care workers over four years from 2023-24. This is projected to benefit over 250,000 aged care workers with low pay. 

Investment into fostering a skillful workforce 

To encourage and facilitate the skills development of the sector’s workforce, the Government is investing $87.2 million in supporting, attracting, and retaining aged care workers. This investment goes into maintaining programs that provide specialised training for elderly care nurses and promote aged care as an appealing career path. 

Furthermore, $2.54 billion is invested in vocational and other education, indicating significant support and opportunities for individuals training in healthcare. The increased budget for vocational education in the upcoming period is especially beneficial for expanding the aged care workforce. With a projected shortage of 440,000 aged care workers in Australia by 2050, there is a pressing need for improved training and working conditions for these healthcare individuals.  

Improvements to the aged care system 

As a response to recommendations of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, the government is investing $2.2 billion into aged care reforms. This commitment aims to enhance care quality for the elderly while meeting the training and work rights of aged care staff. 

In summary, the Budget 2024-2025 allocates a considerable proportion into improving the training and working conditions of aged care workers. With increased opportunities to receive professional training and career advantages, it is a good call for individuals to break into the aged care industry. If you have attained a certificate III – the most common level requirement within the industry, you can earn a base rate of $32.21 hourly.  

At Global Business College of Australia, we offer the pathway to a rewarding career in personal care through the Certificate III in Individual Support. The course delivers comprehensive knowledge about aged care while preparing students to be job-ready through practical assessments and work placement. To embark on a fulfilling journey into the aged care sector, enquire today.  

Building a Professional LinkedIn Profile: A Student’s Guide

In today’s digital age, your online presence can easily become your resume. How well you present yourself online can have a direct impact on the first impressions from employers. For students stepping into the professional world, LinkedIn is a dynamic platform to showcase your background, skills, and achievements. Here’s how you can develop a compelling LinkedIn profile that not only reflects your current accomplishments but also paves the way for future opportunities.  

1. Start with a Professional Profile Photo

As your profile photo tends to make the first impression for recruiters, choose a clear, professional photo with a smart outfit, simple background, and good lighting. If you want to take a step further, you may seek professional photographers to shoot your profile photos. You might be able to find them at photobooths during career events on campus. As your profile picture can speak volumes about your professionalism, invest time and effort in producing a quality photo.  

2. Craft a Compelling Headline

Your headline/ title should express yourself beyond your current student status. To fully deliver how you perceive your professional trajectory, also include your future aspirations. This may address what you hope to achieve, or the field in which you would like to work after finishing your studies. Phrases like “Aspiring Marketing Professional” or “Computer Science Student & Tech Enthusiast” can provide useful insights into your ambitions. If you need ideas for your headline, you can check out the profiles of workers you admire or recent alumni.  

3. Summarise Your Story

The summary section is the key point of your profile. It’s where you can highlight your academic achievements, qualifications, and goals. Be genuine and mention what you’re passionate about, the skills you have, why your chosen field perfectly fits you, and how you aim to impact the field.  

4. Showcase Your Experience

Here you can include your working experience, including part-time jobs, paid/unpaid internships, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities. Describe your responsibilities and achievements in each role, focusing on what you learned and how you contributed. Don’t worry if you do not have a long work history. You can highlight your volunteer experience or extracurricular activities, and these experiences may also be highly evaluated by recruiters. Use action verbs and clarify your accomplishments with numbers or percentages when possible.  

5. Detail Your Educational Background

Regarding educational background, you should include your college, major, and expected graduation date. To provide more context to your academic dedication and interests, consider listing relevant courses, your GPA (if impressive), and any honours or awards.  

6. Highlight Skills and Endorsements

List skills relevant to your career goals, and encourage classmates, professors, and past employers to endorse the skills. These validations add credibility to your profile. If you’re not sure which skills to mention, have a look at some job descriptions in your field and identify the skills highlighted.

7. Engage with Your Network

After completing your profile, start connecting with peers, alumni, and professionals in your field of interest. Actively participate in discussions, share relevant articles, and congratulate connections on their achievements. Remind yourself that networking is about building relationships, not just increasing your connection count.  

8. Get Recommendations

Aside from endorsements on your skills, you can also get recommendations from professors, supervisors, or colleagues, which provides a personal touch to your profile. They are powerful testimonials of your character and work ethic.  

9. Be an Active Participant

Regularly update your profile with new achievements, projects, or learning experiences. A dynamic profile shows that you are evolving and actively engaged in professional development.  

Conclusion  

Your LinkedIn profile is more than a digital resume; it’s the narrative of your professional journey. For students, it’s a platform to articulate not only where you’ve been but also where you’re headed. By thoughtfully crafting each section, you set the stage for your future career, opening doors to opportunities that align with your aspirations and values.  

Follow GBCA’s social media and blog for regular updates on current student events and useful insights!  

 

References 

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/10-tips-students-new-grads-linkedin-omar-garriott/  

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-optimize-your-linkedin-account-even-youvenever-had-parker-pell/ 

The Job of a Bookkeeper: A Comprehensive Overview 

A bookkeeper plays an important role in managing a business’s financial transactions, such as income, expenses, and liabilities. Hence, bookkeepers are in high demand across all industries. In this blog, we are going to explore the daily tasks of a bookkeeper, salary expectations, and requirements to become one. 

The day-to-day tasks of a bookkeeper  

While the work of a bookkeeper varies depending on the needs of the business, they are commonly expected to handle the following main tasks (according to the Victorian Skill Gateway): 

  • Keeping financial records, and maintaining and balancing accounts using manual and computerised systems 
  • Monitoring cash flow and lines of credit 
  • Producing financial statements, budget and expenditure reports and analyses along with account books, ledgers and accounting software packages 
  • Preparing invoices, purchase orders and bank deposits 
  • Reconciling accounts against monthly bank statements 
  • Verifying recorded transactions and reporting issues to management 

Salary expectations and working arrangement 

The average annual salary for bookkeepers in Australia ranges from $65,000 to $80,000 per year, or $30-40 per hour. Entry-level positions start at $65,000 per year, while most experienced workers make up to $90,000 per annual. According to the Australian government’s Labour Market Insights, 75% of workers earn more than $1031 per week, and 25% of workers earn more than $1412 per week. 

Bookkeeping can be done on a part-time or full-time basis, making this a flexible career option for those who have family or study commitments outside of work. Furthermore, the rise of cloud-based accounting software allows even more locational flexibility for bookkeepers, as they can work from anywhere. With such a significant perk, only 33% of employed bookkeepers are working full-time hours. 

Skill requirements 

As bookkeepers are required to deal with long lists of financial transactions and assist the cash flow of a business, being accurate and responsible are critical attributes. Here are other skill requirements crucial for the job. 

  • Fundamental accounting and business knowledge 
  • Understanding accounting best practices 
  • Being detail-oriented 
  • Strong analytical thinking skills 
  • Technical proficiency in accounting software, such as MYOB, Xero and Quickbooks etc. 
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel 
  • Professionalism and organisation skills 

How to become a bookkeeper 

Bookkeepers are in high demand in Australia, particularly in small and medium-sized businesses. With the increasing focus on financial management and record keeping, bookkeepers are an essential part of any organisation. To become a bookkeeper, you should enrol in Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping.  

The Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping course reflects the job roles of contract bookkeepers and employees executing bookkeeping tasks for different organisations.  

GBCA offers a Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping program that covers essential practical skills such as processing financial transactions and extracting interim reports, administering subsidiary accounts and ledgers, and establishing and maintaining payroll systems. Through the course, you acquire the knowledge and skills to manage a variety of situations in financial transactions and become an essential part in business operation.  

If you are interested in starting your career as a bookkeeping professional, enrol in Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping today or reach out to us via enquiries@gbca.edu.au for any further questions. 

 

Recommended reads 

Unlock Your Potential with a Bookkeeper Course at GBCA | GBCA  

Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping: A Course Overview | GBCA 

 

Recent Changes on Australian Migration Strategy and Student Visas Requirements

Australian Immigration, Student Visa

With three Australian universities ranking in the top 20 of QS World Universities Rankings (2023), Australia has become a desirable study destination for students from various countries. In March 2024, the Australian government released its much-anticipated Migration Strategy, which outlines a new vision for Australia’s migration system that aims to strengthen the integrity and quality of international students as well as international education. This article highlights recent important updates from the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) including the Student visa and Temporary Graduate visa requirements.  

At a glance 
  • The DHA has issued a package of integrity measures to increase the standards for international students and education providers. 
  • International students and graduates should expect higher English language requirements. 
Introduction to Genuine Student Requirement (GS) 

Effective from 23rd March 2024, the Australian Government is replacing the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement with a Genuine Student (GS) requirement for Student visa applications. This shift aims to identify students genuinely seeking quality education in Australia, independent of any migration intentions. 

As outlined by the DHA, under the GS requirement, prospective students will respond to targeted questions instead of a traditional 300-word statement in the visa application form. These questions will delve into the applicant’s circumstances, course choice rationale, and the benefits envisaged from their education in Australia. Furthermore, the revised Student visa declaration emphasises understanding of visa conditions, compliance commitment, and awareness of limited post-study migration pathways. 

A $19m investment was placed in the Home Affairs student visa unit, indicating the DHA’s determination in raising the scrutiny for high-risk student visas and identifying genuine students. 

For more information regarding the Genuine Student Requirement, visit the DHA’s website here. 

English Language Proficiency Updates 

Aligned with the Migration Strategy released on 11th December 2023, the Australian Government is elevating English language proficiency standards for Student and Temporary Graduate visas. Effective from 23rd March 2024, minimum test scores for various English proficiency requirements are increasing.  

As the minimum IELTS score requirement for Student visa applicants rises from 5.5 to 6.0, the mandatory IELTS score for students who wish to undertake a packaged English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) from a minimum of 4.5 to 5.0 (or equivalent).  

The minimum requirement for Temporary Graduate visa applicants rises from 6.0 to 6.5 with a minimum score of 5.5 for each test component (reading, writing, listening, speaking); nevertheless, passport holders from Hong Kong and British National Overseas (BNO) enjoy leniency with slightly lower language requirements. The Temporary Graduate visa also faced a reduction in the validity window of English language tests from three years to one year.  

Visit here for more information regarding the upcoming English requirement changes. 

Other Changes and Further Updates 

Alongside changes related to English language requirements, the new conditions of Temporary Graduate visa also include a lower age limit for applicants, shorter post-study stay duration, and a clearer pathway for migration. These changes take place in order to ensure that graduates help meet skills shortages and do not become ‘permanently temporary’. 

As these changes roll out, the Department of Home Affairs pledges to communicate further information through various channels, including their website, social media platforms, and outreach activities. Education providers and prospective applicants can stay informed and prepared for these impending alterations.  

Stay tuned for more updates from us to ensure a seamless educational journey in Australia. 

 

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What I can learn from the Diploma of Interpreting and Advanced Diploma of Interpreting

A Comprehensive Guide to Certificate III in Individual Support