Australia and India are further strengthening ties with the new Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES) being introduced from late 2024.
Indian university graduates and early career professionals from India's top universities will be able to apply for a MATES stream visa under the Temporary Work (International Relations) (Subclass 403), giving them the opportunity to live and work in Australia for up to two years.
The scheme will benefit Australian industry sectors and businesses by enhancing their access to some of India's most talented graduates with in-demand knowledge and skills.
3,000 temporary visa places will be allocated annually through a visa pre-application ballot process, providing an equitable, streamlined and transparent way to select applicants to participate in MATES.
As a new temporary mobility pathway, MATES will enable Indian nationals to gain employment in Australia and valuable experience in their areas of expertise.
Eligible fields of study include renewable energy, mining, engineering, information and communication technology, artificial intelligence, financial technology and agricultural technology.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Immigration, the Hon Matt Thistlethwaite MP
"MATES is the centrepiece mobility offer in the Australia-India Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement, and supports our migration priorities by attracting some of India's most talented graduates with in-demand knowledge and skills to Australia.
"MATES is mutually beneficial for both countries, allowing young Indian professionals with the right qualifications to utilise and expand their skills and experience in relevant Australian industries."
