A strong warning has been given by the Australian government to those who have been acting as immigration agents without the necessary qualifications and licenses. This warning came about after a court action was successful against a woman from West Australia who was accused of operating as an unauthorized migration agent.

A fine of $50,000 has been levied on the woman for lodging applications for an Australian visa unlawfully. She has filed applications for many individuals and businesses. In order to be legally practicing immigration consulting in Australia, all the immigration agents have to register themselves with the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA).

According to Chris Bowen, the Immigration Minister for Australia, the activities of this woman has literally put at risk the reputation of those migration agents who have been working legally in the nation. The integrity of the visa programs in Australia is challenged by such unprofessional, unethical and incompetent behavior from such agents. More so, with over 3,700 migration agents operating in the nation have their reputation at stake due to such activities.

The immigration authorities investigated this woman after a complaint was received from a client. As per Bowen, it is important for the clients to feel confident when it comes to their visa applications.

He also said that when it comes to immigration, a lot is involved and is at stake. These include both financial as well as emotional investments on part of the applicant. This makes it very vital for the applicants to have confidence in the integrity and the professionalism of the migration agent.