Australia Updates Visa Framework for Religious Workers

From December 13, 2024, an updated Minister of Religion Labour Agreement (MoRLA) commences. The new MoRLA supports religious institutions to access skilled workers from overseas.

The changes provide greater access to visa pathways for organizations that have an underlying religious focus, such as education and promotion of their faiths in a charitable or educational environment.

The new MoRLA also includes revised settings on salary, qualifications, work experience and English ​language to reflect the diverse religious practices and beliefs in Australia.

Until the Department of Home Affairs makes systems changes to the online labour agreement request form, applicants can input “n/a” in the nominee section of the form. This will allow them to continue with the application.

Erickson Insights & Analysis

The Department expects updates to the MoRLA request form in ImmiAccount in early 2025. Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.