A new law implements a criminal and civil penalty regime that makes it illegal to ask for, receive, offer or provide payment or other benefits to a sponsor in return for a range of 'sponsorship-related events.'  The new regime applies to temporary sponsored work visas and skilled permanent employer-sponsored visas, including the subclass 457 visa, Employer Nomination Scheme subclass 186 visa and the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme subclass 187 visa.

This legislation is a response to recommendations of the subclass 457 independent review panel held in 2014, and is likely to come into effect by May 30, 2016.