Migrant and refugee settlement agency AMES Australia has welcomed measures announced by the federal government in its 2026-27 budget which provide support for migrant skills recognition, cost of living relief and support for diverse communities.
The budget includes an expansion of Australia’s skilled migrant program with an investment of $85.2 million to fast-track migrants into trades and almost $8 million to extend the Economic Pathways to Refugee Integration program aimed at increasing refugee employment outcomes.
The budget also sees the creation of a Skills Migration Commissioner who will oversee faster and more flexible skills recognition for migrants.
CEO of migrant and refugee settlement agency AMES Australia Melinda Collinson welcomed the budget measures that supported migrants into jobs befitting their skills and experience as well making access to healthcare easier, especially for women.
“We welcome the measures in the budget that support migrants and refugees and their communities, who are among the most vulnerable to cost-of-living pressures and barriers to accessing employment and healthcare,” Ms Collinson said.
“The modest tax cuts delivering $250 a year to families will also have a positive impact,” she said.
Ms Collinson said the health measures in the budget would be felt in diverse communities.
“We know that people from diverse communities can struggle to access healthcare, so the $25 billion investment in public hospitals, the expansion of bulk billing is welcome,” she said.
“Also welcome is the investment in urgent care clinics and the pharmaceutical benefits scheme.
“Overall, the budget is inclusive. It recognises that when people feel they are valued members of society, there is a dividend in stronger social cohesion and a stronger society,” Ms Collinson said.