The peak body for Australian Ukrainians has welcomed the Government announcing arrangements for recently arrived Ukrainians to transition to a 786 visa, which will be valid for three years and allow people to work, study and access Medicare.
‘The Government’s plan reflects discussions with the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations (AFUO) over the past months that there would be a staged approach to issues. There was agreement that the situation needs to be evaluated at different stages of the program and adjustments made,’ said Mr Stefan Romaniw OAM, Co-Chair AFUO.
‘The first step was to remove these people – predominantly women and children – from harm’s way. The Government assisted by expediting the visa approval process for Ukrainians displaced by the Russian invasion.
‘Yesterday’s announcement formalises the next step – setting up arrangements that will allow these people to pick up their lives again on the other side of the world,’ said Mr Romaniw.
The Government is making available a subclass 786 Temporary Humanitarian Concern (THC) visa for all Ukrainian nationals who are in Australia on temporary visas, and those who will arrive in the coming months, other than maritime crew visa holders. The visa will be valid for three years and allow people to work, study and access Medicare.
There is no visa application process or application fees associated with this visa.
‘We thank the Australian Government for swiftly bringing displaced Ukrainian people to our shores and supporting them with appropriate arrangements. By doing this, Australia is showing its support for decency, democracy, and freedom from tyranny,’ Mr Romaniw said.
Media inquiries:
Stefan Romaniw OAM (Co-Chair AFUO) – 0419 531 255
Kateryna Argyrou (Co-Chair) – 0423 204 988
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