Medical Checks, income thresholds and health conditions are being waived for New Zealanders currently waiting on permanent residency through the subclass 189 Visa.

In a move designed to clear the backlog of 11,500 applications, permanent residency can be acquired in about six months under the new federal plan. With permanent residency allowing New Zealand citizens to gain access to government programs and services, this will allow for easier migration and citizenship pathways.

Along with government services, these new rules will also allow children born in Australia or have grown up in Australia with New Zealand parents to gain the same benefits as their peers. Further allowing children and adults who grew up in Australia to represent their country or state in whatever way they choose.

Produced By: Zachary Probert

Featured In Story: Joanne Cox – Chair of Oz Kiwi

First aired on The Wire, Thursday 22 December 2022