Accredited Standard Business Sponsorship (SBS) is a premium status that Australian employers can apply for under the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (Subclass 482) and other employer-sponsored visa programs. This status offers faster visa processing times and other benefits, making it highly desirable for businesses looking to hire skilled workers from overseas.

To become an accredited sponsor, businesses must meet certain eligibility criteria, including being a standard business sponsor for at least 12 months and having a robust record of compliance. In addition, businesses must fall into one of five specific categories at the time of application. Each category has unique characteristics that businesses must satisfy to gain accreditation.

Category 1: Commonwealth, State, and Territory Government Agencies

Government agencies at the Commonwealth, state, or territory levels are automatically eligible for accredited sponsorship if they meet the general requirements of being an approved sponsor. This category recognises the role of government institutions as critical to public service and essential workforce needs.

Characteristics for Category 1:

• Must be a Commonwealth, state, or territory government agency.

• Minimal risk of non-compliance with immigration laws due to the nature of government employment.

• Must have demonstrated good governance and compliance with sponsorship obligations.

By being in this category, government agencies can streamline their recruitment processes for skilled professionals in various fields such as health, education, infrastructure, and research.

Category 2: Australian Trusted Traders

Businesses that hold Australian Trusted Trader (ATT) status qualify under Category 2. ATT is a program administered by the Australian Border Force that recognises businesses with secure international supply chains and compliant trade practices. ATT status shows that a business is trusted to adhere to stringent regulatory standards.

Characteristics for Category 2:

• Must be an Australian Trusted Trader.

• The business must demonstrate low risk in terms of compliance with Australian immigration laws and sponsorship obligations.

• ATT companies typically have robust governance and risk management systems in place.

Being in this category allows businesses to hire skilled workers quickly to support their secure and compliant trade operations, particularly in industries like logistics, manufacturing, and global supply chain management.

Category 3: Low Volume Usage and High Percentage of Australian Workers (At Least 85%)

Category 3 is aimed at businesses that sponsor a low number of temporary visa holders while maintaining a high proportion of Australian employees (at least 85%). These businesses must demonstrate that they prioritize hiring Australian workers and only use the sponsorship program for highly specialized or critical roles.

Characteristics for Category 3:

• Must have low volume usage of the TSS or other employer-sponsored visa programs.

• Must employ at least 85% Australian workers.

• The business should have a strong record of training Australian employees and ensuring that visa sponsorship is only used for critical or niche skills.

Businesses in this category are often in sectors like healthcare, engineering, and technology, where local talent is primarily used, but occasional overseas expertise is necessary.

Category 4: High Volume Usage and Medium Percentage of Australian Workers (At Least 75%)

Category 4 is designed for businesses that have high volume usage of the TSS or other visa programs but still employ a medium proportion of Australian workers (at least 75%). These businesses often operate in industries where there is a higher demand for foreign workers, but they still demonstrate a commitment to hiring Australians.

Characteristics for Category 4:

• Must have high volume usage of employer-sponsored visas.

• Must employ at least 75% Australian workers.

• Demonstrated commitment to workforce development, including providing training to Australian staff.

Industries that may fall into this category include construction, hospitality, and information technology, where there is a need for a blend of local and international expertise to meet operational demands.

Category 5: Major Investment in Australia

Businesses with a significant investment in Australia are eligible for Category 5 accreditation. These businesses demonstrate a commitment to the Australian economy by investing in large-scale projects or infrastructure, which supports economic growth and job creation. Typically, this includes multinational corporations or large Australian companies.

Characteristics for Category 5:

• Must have made a major investment in Australia.

• Investment may include infrastructure projects, research and development, or long-term business development that creates jobs and boosts the economy.

• Must show commitment to hiring and training Australians as part of their business operations.

Examples of businesses in this category include multinational companies in sectors like mining, energy, and manufacturing, where long-term investment plays a critical role in both economic and workforce development.

Benefits of Becoming an Accredited Sponsor

Accredited SBS offers several key benefits for employers, including:

• Priority visa processing for TSS and other employer-sponsored visas, often within five business days.

• Streamlined compliance and document requirements for future sponsorship applications.

• Access to a wider range of workers, as the program prioritizes accredited sponsors in allocating places for sponsored visas.

This streamlined process helps businesses fill crucial skill gaps quickly while ensuring that they remain compliant with Australian immigration and employment laws.

Conclusion: Upgrade Your Hiring Experience

Just like business class offers a superior flight experience, accredited SBS offers a superior recruitment experience. With priority visa approvals, reduced red tape, and faster access to skilled workers, you’ll be soaring above the competition. If your business fits one of the five eligible categories, now is the time to upgrade.

Ready to become an Accredited Sponsor?

Ready to enjoy the perks of being an accredited sponsor? Start the process today and fast-track your access to top global talent. Contact our expert team to help you achieve accredited status and let your business fly high in the competitive world of talent acquisition.

Contact us now to schedule a consultation and get the professional guidance you need.

Note: The information provided in this article is meant for general informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Although we strive to provide accurate and useful information, the nuances of Australian immigration law demand personalised advice from legal professionals. Given the dynamic nature of migration regulations, it is essential to consult with experienced immigration experts for up-to-date insights tailored to your individual circumstances. We strongly advise seeking professional guidance to navigate the complexities of Australian immigration law effectively and to achieve the most favorable outcomes for your immigration journey.