Dentists, doctors, civil engineers, occupational therapists, psychiatrists, midwifes, secondary school teachers and accountants are among the professionals that will be fast-tracked through the Australian visa system to address skills shortages under new rules.

The new legislation reorganises the priority processing of certain skill sectors and will have an immediate effect on anyone about to apply, or those who have already applied, for an Australian visa.

Priority will be also given to applicants with existing employee sponsorships, and those who fit both criteria should have their Australian visa completed and approved within a year.

Liam Clifford, of Australian visa specialists Global Visas, says: “Australia - like all economies in this current economic climate - is re-assessing its skills requirements.

“Australia is a popular destination with a high standard of living, and now it’s especially important when a person is considering migrating to Australia that they are decisive and able to act quickly, as this legislation change now highlights.”