The Case For Reform: Expanding Health Waivers In Australia's Migration System

To secure most Australian visas, whether permanent or temporary, applicants must fulfill a health requirement designed to protect public health and manage associated risks. This requirement aims to prevent the spread of serious diseases like active tuberculosis, control public health expenditures and ensure that Australian citizens and permanent residents have access to necessary health services.

The health requirement also addresses the potential costs related to health and community services. It operates under Public Interest Criterion (PIC) 4005 or PIC 4007 of the Migration Regulations, depending on the visa subclass.

An applicant may not meet this requirement if they have tuberculosis, a disease or condition that poses a threat to public health, or one that could lead to significant health care or community service costs. In this context, "significant" is currently defined as costs exceeding $86,000 over the duration of a temporary visa or the first ten years