Discussion Papers

MIA Board Review

The MIA Board has agreed to provide options for the restructure of the Board post the MARA, as the role and functions of the Board have changed. An options paper has been designed to gain input from members as part of a more general review.

Action Plan 3.3 of the Strategic Plan calls for a review of the Board structure to better align with the strategic plan. In particular, it asks for actions to be developed to reflect key strategic priorities.

There are a range issues which will impact on the future governance arrangements for MIA which are explored in the options paper. These include:

• Cost and effectiveness of a large Board
• Most appropriate structures in terms of expertise required for the Board
• Value of some independent experts and variety of skill sets on the Board
• Relationships with other segments of the organisation
• Voting for Board through different modes of  direct representation of membership

A ballot of members on these options will open soon.

Options for Board Structure Review and Constitutional Change Process

The MIA released two discussion papers for public comment in March 2009:

1. Code of Professional Ethics and Practice

This draft Code introduces a framework of principles grounded in six ethical values common to professions which are integrity, objectivity, professional competence and due care, confidentiality, professional behaviour and purpose.

The purpose of the code is:

• To uphold the reputation and professionalism of the migration advice profession
• To provide practical guidance to registered migration agents within the profession
• To provide consumer protection

Click here to download the discussion paper (PDF) (83 Kb).

Submissions were open until the end of April 2009.

2. English Language Competency Discussion Paper

A new discussion paper has been developed which proposes that updated English Language standards apply to both new entrants to the profession as well as existing registered migration agents who are seeking re-registration.

This requirement applies in both Canada and New Zealand. When applied in Australia it could help harmonise migration services quality assurance provisions across the three countries under the Asia pacific Economic Community (APEC) protocols. APEC is working to facilitate practical policy formulation in APEC economies and is also encouraging economic, educational and technical cooperation.

The issues to be considered are outlined in the document. The paper argues that if more stringent English language standards for registration are not introduced, it could lead to a diminishing of the reputation of the migration advice profession as a whole.

Click here to download the discussion paper (PDF) (104 Kb).

Submissions were open until the end of April 2009.