For employer-sponsored and business-related visas in Australia, the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) places high importance on the quality and content of a Business Plan. A well-prepared plan demonstrates the business’s legitimacy, financial viability, and the genuine need for the nominated position. Understanding the key elements DHA evaluates can significantly improve the chances of visa approval.
1. Business Overview
DHA expects a clear description of the business, including:
Legal name, registration number, and ABN
Type of business structure (e.g., Pty Ltd, partnership)
History and background of the business
Nature of operations and business objectives
A strong overview establishes the credibility and authenticity of the sponsoring business.
2. Products or Services Offered
The Business Plan should detail the products or services the business provides:
What the business produces or delivers
How these offerings meet market demand
Any unique selling points or competitive advantages
This section demonstrates that the business is active, sustainable, and operating in a real market.
3. Organisational Structure and Staffing
DHA evaluates whether the nominated position fits within the business’s operations:
Organisational chart showing reporting lines
Key staff roles and responsibilities
Current staffing levels and future growth plans
Justification for hiring overseas workers
This ensures the nominated role is necessary and aligned with business needs.
4. Market and Industry Analysis
A comprehensive market analysis shows that the business understands its industry:
Industry trends and growth potential
Competitor analysis and positioning
Target customers and market demand
Risks and mitigation strategies
This section strengthens the argument that the business is viable and capable of sustaining employment.
5. Financial Information
Financial viability is one of the most critical elements for DHA:
Recent financial statements (profit and loss, balance sheets)
Cash flow projections
Revenue forecasts and growth strategies
Evidence of sufficient funds to pay overseas employees
Accurate and realistic financial data demonstrates the business can support its workforce and sponsorship obligations.
6. Nominated Position Justification
A DHA-compliant Business Plan clearly explains why the nominated position is necessary:
How the role contributes to the business operations
Duties and responsibilities of the nominated employee
Skills and qualifications required
Why the role cannot be filled by an existing Australian employee
This section often aligns with the Genuine Position Report to ensure consistency.
7. Compliance with Australian Laws
The Business Plan should demonstrate awareness and adherence to:
Australian workplace laws
Fair work and employment obligations
Sponsorship compliance requirements
This reassures DHA that the business is capable of meeting legal and ethical obligations.
8. Evidence-Based and Tailored Approach
DHA prefers Business Plans that are tailored to the specific business and supported by evidence:
Supporting documents like contracts, client lists, and licences
Industry research, awards, and salary surveys
Clear alignment between financials, staffing, and operations
Generic or poorly prepared plans can raise red flags and affect visa outcomes.
Conclusion
A professionally prepared Business Plan that includes these key elements is essential for employer-sponsored and business-related visa applications. It demonstrates:
Business legitimacy and sustainability
Financial capacity to employ overseas workers
Necessity and genuineness of the nominated position
Compliance with Australian laws and DHA expectations