After signalling its intention to tighten temporary foreign worker visas, the Government is currently reviewing the subclass 457 visa program. Here are 4 ways the 457 visa program may be reformed.
By Occupation
Currently, 651 occupations are eligible for a subclass 457 visa as listed on the Consolidated Sponsored Occupations List (CSOL). Shortening this list would restrict the ability to employ temporary foreign workers for certain job categories.
By Skill Level
Occupations eligible for a 457 visa are further classified by the Government by skill level, with skill level 1 requiring advanced skills and extensive experience. Restricting 457’s to a certain skill level could affect the ability to employ temporary foreign workers – especially for the accommodation and food sector, as many of these jobs are classified as Skill Level 2 and 3.
By Location
The Government is also exploring the option to reduce skilled migration in areas of high youth unemployment. If implemented, companies operating in specific areas could be prohibited from hiring under the 457 visa scheme.
By Income
Skilled migration could also be reduced if the Government makes the process more expensive for employing businesses. A review released in February identified the need to raise minimum incomes for 457 visa holders in accordance with inflation each year.
While these are factors that may be considered, it is yet to be determined whether these factors will be used to reform the 457 visa program. It is also worth noting that the 457 visa scheme receives a lot of media coverage as it is one of the most popular work visa options, however businesses and individuals have a variety of work visa options available to them depending on their circumstances.
Interstaff will keep you updated on any changes to the 457 visa program. If you have any queries about the 457 visa program or other work visa options, please contact us on+61 8 9221 3388 (or National Free Call 1800 449 858) or [email protected]
Source: SBS News
