While the scheme announced by Senator Evans takes broad aim at the mining and construction industries, the measures – which include the expansion of 457 long-stay skilled visas – should also have a positive impact in the ICT sector.
As an immediate measure, the Skilled Migration program will be increased by 6000 places in 2007-08. The increase will be made up of permanent employer-sponsored visas and General Skilled Migration visas.
The additional 6000 places will bring to 108,500 the total number of permanent visas granted under the Skill Stream of the migration program this financial year.
Senator Evans has established an external reference group to investigate skill requirement, including the expansion of the Temporary Business (Long Stay) visa (subclass 457), which allows businesses to recruit skilled labour from overseas for temporary entry to Australia for between three months and four years.
The reference group will advise the Minister on current and anticipated future employment trends and the need for overseas recruitment in the identified sectors.
“The group will provide me with specific advice on ways to ensure the temporary work visa system, also known as the subclass 457 visa program, operates as effectively as possible in contributing to the supply of skilled labour,” Senator Evans said.
Senator Evans said he was also expanding the working holiday visa program to provide relief to Australia businesses. Last financial year there were 126,000 people on working holiday visa in Australia. And the number expected to extend their visa by a year is expected to soar this year by more than 50 per cent to 10,000.
For more Skills Alley News click here.
