Australian Border Force (ABF) officers from the Department of Home Affairs exposed multiple cases of suspected exploitation of Australia’s visa and migration system during targeted inspections recently across Hobart and Devonport.

ABF officers profiled numerous Tasmanian companies, uncovering intelligence on ‘phantom’ nominations and fraudulent permanent residency applications under the Employer Nomination Scheme.

This intelligence led to targeted early morning searches over several days, allowing officers to conduct staff interviews, verify bona fides and gather critical evidence.

The operation exposed five non-existent nominated businesses, fraudulent application documents – including falsified lease agreements – and the misuse of two legitimate business credentials for bogus visa applications.

ABF Commander Field Operations and Sponsor Monitoring, Ben Biddington, said this latest operation was a success in the ongoing efforts to protect Australia’s immigration system.

“Our officers are committed to identifying and stopping fraudulent activities. Those who attempt to exploit Australia’s visa system, through fraudulent applications and activities, will be caught,” he said.

Resources are available to help migrant workers understand their rights and how to seek legitimate professional assistance when needed.

Migrants applying for visas and who are paying for immigration assistance are urged to use legal practitioners or registered migration agents, who must abide by a code of industry practice and not engage in illegal behaviour.

For more information and to check the Register of registered migration agents, visit the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA) website.

Commander Biddington said ABF officers would continue targeted operations throughout Australia, to protect the integrity of Australia’s visa system.

Anyone with information relating to potential immigration offences or suspicious activity is encouraged to report online at Border Watch. Reports can be made anonymously.