Australia has launched the MATES programme for Indian graduates and early-career workers, offering a two-year stay and work opportunity in priority sectors. Entry is controlled through a ballot under the Subclass 403 Temporary Work visa framework.

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• MATES gives Indians up to two years work stay in Australia
•  Targets early professionals in high-growth sectors like AI, ICT, renewables
•  Part of Subclass 403 Temporary Work (International Relations) visa
•  Indians must enter ballot first; no direct visa application allowed
•  Ballot randomly selects 3,000 applicants annually for invitations
•  Non-selected applicants must wait for next ballot cycle
•  Visa allows work in field of study with flexible arrangements
•  Not a PR pathway; only temporary mobility and skills exposure
•  Applicants must meet identity, character, health requirements
•  Entire process and applications handled online via Home Affairs