Migration software
versus the Code
of Conduct
Are you compliant?
In today’s world of evolving technology, Migration Agents are presented with many ways to create, store and use their data and documentation. One only needs to look at the immigration systems of other countries to see that Australia is at the forefront of technology in migration. Australian Migration Agents are renowned for adopting and implementing technology to help them manage their files and store their documents.
When implementing the use of technology and new systems, it is vital for Migration Agents to ensure they remain fully compliant with the Code of Conduct and other legal requirements. For example, the obligation under Part 6 of The Code of Conduct requires agents to keep their records for a period of 7 years after the date of the last action on the file. Just a glance at the case law will highlight the considerable penalties issued to agents who have failed to meet this requirement.
If you have moved or are thinking of moving to an online solution, have you considered whether you can guarantee access to your data - in the future? Migration Agents have seen numerous online solutions come and go over the last 7 years, so how confident are you that you will be able to access your data 7 years from now? What would the consequences be if you couldn’t access your online documents or emails if the company closed down (which often happens without warning)? This begs the question:
On the Australian Migration scene there are (and have been) a number of online client and document management solutions all presenting the major risk of losing access to your documents if they go out of business. During the last 15 years, there have been numerous migration-specific web-based products come and go from the Australian Migration scene (including large overseas software companies). With each failure of these online solutions, users who have signed up have dealt with major problems accessing their information and documentation costing time, effort and expense of moving to another system. Those who couldn’t get access to their documents, are in the unenviable position of being in breach of the Code of Conduct.
During those same 15 years, Migration Manager, designed and developed in Australia specifically for Australian Migration professionals, has grown from strength to strength. The difference between Migration Manager and nearly every other migration software product, is that Migration Manager keeps all your records in your control from Day 1. MM’s optional Cloud product keeps a copy of your documents on your local computer and in the cloud, so no matter what happens, you will always have access to your files.
As you consider the collection, storage and use of your client information/documents, think very carefully how you might do so in the future. Whichever option you choose, make sure that you remain Code of Conduct compliant and remember, at Migration Manager, we’ve got you covered!
