Kian Bone

Kian advised and supported one of the world’s largest oil and gas companies following major changes to immigration laws. The abolition of the Subclass 457 visa program and major changes to the occupation lists for which temporary skilled visas were eligible, were going to impact the client and how their business operated dramatically. Kian advised the client on their government lobbying efforts in a bid to minimise the impact of these changes. Kian also explored alternative migration solutions for the client within the new legal framework that would provide the client with an effective and commercial solution.

Kian provided the client high-level strategic advice on their corporate migration program, ensuring compliance with Australian immigration laws. This involved visas for 6-10 employees a year, as well as playing an integral part in the business’ international development program for its employees. With the client headquartered overseas, Kian needed to navigate the complex corporate relationship between the client and its Australian subsidiary. The subsidiary was also involved in a joint venture project within Australia, which added extra complexity to the company structure.

Kian represented an opposition politician from a quasi-dictatorship Asian country, assisting with his protection visa application. Obstacles arose through an issue with the client’s family in the application, with the Department not agreeing to grant a family member the visa. Kian guided the client through this issue, making legal submissions as to why that family member met the criteria required. By taking the time to get to know the client and his family, Kian was able to provide more effective advocacy.

At the Administrative Appeals Tribunal, Kian represented a client whose visa was refused on the grounds of health issues. Armed with personal knowledge of the client and her family, Kian argued the case in a full day hearing and was able to successfully attest that the refusal decision was incorrect. The client was subsequently granted a permanent visa, which meant she and her family could start their lives in Australia, a plan that had been put on hold due to the visa issues.