Temporary residents urge Australia to provide pathway for permanent residency

Annie Cao knows a bit about COVID-19 — she's had 13 tests for the virus and spent multiple stints in self-isolation. Key points: Already 11,200 people have signed a petition calling for a one-off migration policy for temporary visa holders New Zealand and Canada created pathways to residency for thousands who lived there during the pandemic A parliamentary committee has recommended some temporary visa holders be given clearer pathways to permanent residency The 24-year-old nurse has been working on the frontline in a Victorian hospital since the pandemic started. "There are a number of temporary visa holders in Australia who have skills that are in high demand, including in health, aged care, agriculture and other essential services," the spokesperson told the ABC. "The Australian government recognises, and is grateful to those temporary visa holders who have remained in Australia and contributed to the COVID-19 response, particularly in the healthcare sector. "Those temporary visa holders who have supported Australia during COVID-19 are strongly encouraged to explore their visa options to stay, and further information is on the department's website."