The Migration Legislation Amendment (Specified Work and Areas for Subclass 417 and 462 Visas) Instrument 2025 brings important changes for Working Holiday Makers (Subclass 417) and Work and Holiday Visa holders (Subclass 462).
From 5 April 2025, more local government areas across Australia are recognised as eligible for disaster recovery work, allowing more visa holders to meet the requirements for second and third visa applications.
✅ What Is This Instrument About?
This legislative update amends:
- LIN 22/012 – Specified work and areas for Subclass 417
- LIN 22/013 – Specified work and areas for Subclass 462
It expands the regions where recovery work—including bushfire, flood, cyclone, and other severe weather event recovery—counts towards the “specified work” requirement for visa extension.
These updates were informed by the National Emergency Management Agency.
📅 When Does It Start?
🗓️ The instrument commences on 5 April 2025.
It applies to:
- Applications made on or after this date
- Applications lodged earlier but not yet finally determined
This ensures fairness for applicants impacted by recent natural disasters.
🧭 What Work and Areas Are Now Eligible?
✔️ Specified Work Types Include:
- Bushfire recovery work
- Flood, cyclone, and severe weather recovery work
✔️ Expanded Areas Include (examples):
- NSW: Wollongong, Blue Mountains, Byron, Bathurst, Wagga Wagga
- QLD: Townsville, Bundaberg, Ipswich, Gold Coast, Cairns
- VIC: Geelong, East Gippsland, Ballarat, Yarra Ranges, Mildura
- WA, SA, NT, TAS, ACT: Numerous LGAs including all of Tasmania
Full updated lists are included in Schedule 1 and will be published by the Department of Home Affairs.
⚖️ Why These Changes Matter
These amendments:
- Support regional disaster recovery through additional labour
- Reward visa holders contributing to Australia’s rebuilding efforts
- Make it easier for Subclass 417 and 462 holders to extend their stay in Australia
It also reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to using skilled and temporary visa programs to respond to national emergencies.
📌 Important Notes
- These changes are routine annual updates
- No Statement of Compatibility with Human Rights is required (as per the Legislation Act 2003 exemptions)
- The instrument is not subject to disallowance
At Migration Guru, we help Working Holiday Makers, employers, and regional authorities understand and apply these regulations correctly. Whether you’re applying for your second or third visa or unsure if your work counts—we’re here to guide you.
📞 Contact Migration Guru
Migration Guru Pty Ltd
- Phone: +61-7-3036 3800
- Email: info@migrationguru.com.au
- Website: migrationguru.com.au
- Facebook: Migration Guru
Book your FREE consultation today and let us help you make your time in Australia count.
