AUSTRALIAN IMMIGRATION NEWS

Overseas Skilled Workers to supplement not replace Australian work force

Thursday, 30 July 2009

Minister for Immigration and Citizenship Chris Evans has commented on the recent immigration reforms, and stated that the aim of the Rudd government is to provide training and job opportunities for Australians.

Senator Evans said that there have been a range of measures introduced, with consultation from industry and union bodies will ensure that skilled overseas workers entering Australia under temporary visas (sub class 457) will not undermine the jobs and wages of Australian workers.

These measures include:

• formal skills assessments and an increase in the English language requirement for trade occupations;
• the introduction of a market-based minimum salary for temporary overseas workers; and
• a requirement that all employers of overseas workers on 457 visas have demonstrated a commitment to employing local labour.

"While the number of workers coming to Australia under the scheme has slowed, there will still be demand for skilled overseas workers in some sectors, such as mining and healthcare," Senator Evans said.

"Where there are demonstrated skills shortages, the temporary skilled migration (457 visa) program provides the capacity for employers to access skilled overseas workers to supplement the local workforce."

According to the Senator, 457 work visas are being processed faster and more efficiently than ever before, ensuring that employers have access to the skills and talent they need in a timely manner.

"The Rudd Government recognises the need for industry to access skilled overseas labour where there are demonstrated skills shortages but it is important that the program complements domestic recruitment and is not used to replace local workers," the Minister said.

"In the current economic climate, Mr Barnett’s focus ought to be on training and employing West Australians rather than looking to relax provisions for employing overseas workers."

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