On the eve of Australia Day, it is interesting to reflect upon the connections between Canada and Australia that go beyond our common relationship with the Queen. Citizenship and Immigration Minister Jason Kenney has publicly expressed his admiration of Australian immigration policies, and it is clear that the changes he has introduced into Canadian immigration criteria are almost perfectly geared toward Australian immigration to Canada. These include:
- working holiday programs for young Australians that lead to the issuance of open work permits for up to two years, with extensions,
- an increased emphasis on English language skills, and youth,
- the Canadian Experience Class, which is almost perfectly tailored to Australians who come to Canada through the working holiday programs.
In addition, many Australians file sponsored applications based upon their relationships with Canadians.
As we celebrate Australia Day, we also celebrate the well-traveled, worldy citizenry of this great country. While many of Minister Kenney's immigration changes have generated controversy, his courting of Australian immigration to this country is beyond dispute.
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