Working alongside our hardworking state employees to learn from their experiences, I am excited to jump feet first into the role and enhance the way we serve Montanans,” Giles said in a statement. “I am grateful for this opportunity from Governor Gianforte to lead renewed efforts in Montana for better and more efficient services. degree from the University of San Diego and master’s and bachelor’s degrees from Georgia Southern University. She previously worked for former Georgia governors Sonny Perdue and Nathan Deal. Giles has held several roles at the USDA, including as chief of staff for USDA’s rural development office. 29 named Misty Anne Giles as director of the state Department of Administration, which provides back-office services for other state agencies. “With a robust understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by our producers and a strong commitment to meeting their needs, Mike Foster will serve Montana ag well.”įoster’s appointment was also applauded in the administration’s press release by Montana Grain Growers Association Executive VP Lola Raska, Montana Farm Bureau Federation Director of National Affairs Nicole Rolf, and Montana Stockgrowers Association President Jim Steinbeisser.

“Montana farmers and ranchers drive our state’s number one industry, and deserve a leader who will work tirelessly to help them capture more of the value they create,” Gianforte said in a statement. “Montana farmers and ranchers work hard to feed the world, and I’m excited to be a strong voice for these Montanans at the Department of Agriculture,” Foster said in a statement. He has a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Carroll College and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Montana. 23 named current USDA Farm Services Agency state Executive Director Mike Foster as his Department of Agriculture director.įoster, who was appointed to the USDA post in 2018, is a Townsend native who served in the Montana Legislature in the 1990s and also worked for the administration of Gov. “Through measures such as an expansion in the age of eligibility, from 1 July 2023, the Government will deliver enhanced reciprocal pathways for young UK and Australian passport holders to live and work in each country.Gianforte on Dec. The new arrangements will complement medium and longer-term efforts to address domestic skill deficits through education, training and sectoral reform in Australia.” “The Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement reflects the Government’s commitment to diversifying trade and easing cost-of-living pressures for Australians. “The Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement will not only deliver significant benefits to Australia’s economy and strengthen an already close relationship with the UK, but also increase opportunities for young Australians and UK citizens to live and work in each country. extend their YMS visa for a third year if they choose.This is a five year increase from the current maximum age of 30 years inclusive and be able to apply for a YMS visa between the ages of 18 and 35 years inclusive.From 31 January 2024 Australian passport holders will:.Similarly, for Australian passport holders who apply for the UK’s YMS, the new arrangements will also see an increase in the eligible age range and the ability to stay in the UK for up to three years. From 1 July 2024, UK passport holders will be eligible to be granted Working Holiday visas up to a total of three years without having to meet any specified work requirements.This is a five year increase from the current maximum age of 30 years inclusive. From 1 July 2023, UK passport holders will be able to apply for a Working Holiday visa between the ages of 18 and 35 years inclusive.Today the Australia-United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement (A-UKFTA) entered into force, commencing new arrangements under Australia’s Working Holiday Maker (WHM) program and the UK’s Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS).įor UK passport holders who apply for Australia’s Working Holiday visa, the new arrangements will see an increase in the eligible age range and removal of specified work requirements.

The Australian Government is delivering enhanced pathways for young Australians and UK passport holders to live and work in each country. Joint media release with Senator the Hon Don Farrell

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