06 August 2008

Indonesia meets Australian minister to discuss security

Indonesia has met with the Immigration Minister to discuss a programme to improve security on the countries' borders. Andi Mattalatta, the Indonesian Minister for Law and Human Rights, met with Senator Chris Evans, the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, to announce the implementation of the CEKAL computer system.

The new scheme will be put in place in ports across the country "to check the names of people applying for visas or entry permits", Senator Evans said. He added: "Projects like these help make travel in the region safer and more secure."

Implementing the project cost AUD$10 million (£4.6 million) with an extra AUD$2.4 million having been allocated to maintain it until 2010. Senator Evans said the two countries are working together to further improve security on the country's borders, including cracking down on fake documents and passports. Australia and Indonesia have recently announced a working holiday visa program has been created between the two countries, which will enable young residents to work and travel in a different culture, the Sydney Morning Herald.

Australia needs skilled workers: Anyone applying for an Australian visa should begin by completing the Australian Visa Bureau's online Australian visa application to see if they meet the Australian visa requirements.