OMARA issued a communication this week to all Registered Migration Agents (RMAs) outlining four new legislative instruments that introduce minor amendments to the RMA regulatory framework. The full details of the communication are provided below:
“Dear Registered Migration Agent
As you are aware, four new legislative instruments and some consequential changes to the Migration Agents Code of Conduct Regulations 2021 (Cth) will commence on 1 April 2026.
These instruments are:
- Migration Agents Regulations 2026
- Migration Agents Registration Application Charge Regulations 2026
- LIN 26/001 – Migration Agents (CPD Activities, Approval of CPD Providers and CPD Provider Standards)
- LIN 26/002 – Migration (Specified Courses and Exams for Registration as a Migration Agent) Instrument 2026
The new instruments have been amended to include contemporary language and updated references.
These changes will impact both existing RMAs and people seeking registration as an RMA.
Changes for existing RMAs
There are changes to the regulatory framework for RMAs. These includes the following important updates to CPD requirements:
- Mandatory CPD activities for ethical standards and the Migration Agent’s Code of Conduct (1 point for each activity)
- Limits the number of maximum online CPD points attained in a 24-hour period to 6 points (previously 10 points)
- Private Study CPD activities to be completed within 12 months of enrolment.
Transitional provisions will apply in relation to these legislative changes.
Changes for people seeking registration as an RMA
There are changes to the regulatory framework for people wanting to become an RMA.
This includes changes to the approved list of education providers. These providers deliver courses and exams to register as a migration agent.
There are also changes to the English language requirements and the publishing of a Notice of Intention to register as a migration agent.
For further details please see Legislative updates.”