thanks a lot aussiesteve . Can you refresh my old mind on what a sponsor must now do as I have forgotten as it was first touted a few years ago I think ? Would it mean the huge visa fee would not have to be paid until after sponsor approval ? that would be fair but I think these governments like to get their hands on the dosh quickly and such easy pickings from vulnerable folk ! ( smile ).
From what I have seen, the future rule would be that the sponsor pays a fee, (smaller than the applicant.
I think I saw about $400 mentioned at one time), and if approved, the applicant then does the normal application and fee.
In theory the sponsor check can be done quickly .
The sponsorship application fee for the parent visa is $420, and that was implemented on 1 July 2019.