New Health Matrix and Health PAM
A new health matrix for assessing the health of temporary visa applicants and a revised version of the health PAM will be released on LEGEND on 28 March 2009.
In 2007, the Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) recommended that the department review its policy for assessing the health risks of temporary visa applicants. This review has now been completed and a simplified version of the health matrix will be available for use.
New health matrix
The new simplified version of the health matrix will be available via the PAM and the revised Form 1163i Health requirement for temporary entry to Australia on the department's website.
There have been a number of changes to the 'country risk levels' included in the matrix, as well as the stay categories used.
See: Information Form 1163i – Health requirement for temporary entry to Australia (57KB PDF file)
See also: Supplement to Form 1163i – Complete country listings for the health assessment matrix (22KB PDF file)
Changes include:
- a number of countries have 'moved' down into the lower risk category which should result in less medical examinations being required overall
- changes to 'classroom environment' requirements under the special significance settings
and - additional tests required for individuals coming to Australia to study to become a doctor, dentist or nurse.
When will the new health matrix be used?
The new health matrix will be used to assess the required health examinations for any temporary visa applications lodged on, or after, 28 March 2009. In addition, the new health matrix will be utilised for on hand applications where the department has not yet requested the applicant to undergo the requested medicals.
Relevant changes to eVisa systems will also come into effect on 28 March 2009.
Changes in the new PAM
Changes in the new PAM include:
- re-use of medical examination reports and health clearances – the new PAM includes some changes to re-use of x-rays, additional practical guidance on re-use processes is also provided
- over 70 policy – the over 70s health assessment has been renamed 'Aged Visitor Health Check'.
Further assistance
You should contact Health Policy Section with any questions about these or other changes to the PAM.
See: Agent Enquiry & Feedback