Site icon Migrate to Australia from Singapore

Foreigners on 457 Work Visas Rise

The number of overseas workers coming to Australia increased to more than 20 percent over the previous year.

The latest data released by the Immigration Department show that this is the biggest yearly increase in the past 15 years. Despite the Australian government’s effort to put foreigners at the back of the job queue, the number of foreigners on 457 visas is still growing.

Brendan O’Connor, the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship highlighted that further reform is needed to resolve some issues concerning local employers preferring to use 457 visas although they could find appropriate local labor.

“Increasingly we are seeing the misuse of the system by employers who are not making an effort to find local labor first, or who exploit overseas workers under this scheme, which is why the government will take further action to stop employers misusing the program.”, Mr. O’Connor said.

Mr. O’Connor added that the government is committed to ensuring local workers were given local opportunities wherever possible.

New legislation has been passed to ensure employers source local labor before hiring overseas workers on 457 visas.

The legislation, in summary, is as follows:

Mr. O’Connor said that the aim of the legislation is to balance the interests of Australian workers and to protect overseas workers.

If you are planning to work or apply for PR in Australia, complete our 5-minute free migration assessment online form to let our consultants determine your chances. Alternatively, you may register for our upcoming seminar in Singapore to know more about the procedures or ring us at +65 6299 0246 for a professional consultation schedule.

Exit mobile version