A recent study by uSwitch.com, has placed the UK second last in Europe for quality of life, which is made even more interesting by the fact the Uk is also placed at 1st for the highest wage earners.
Reasons for such a result are being pushed towards the fact that the UK is experiencing much higher fuel and essential goods prices than other European countries. Whilst also investing less into the country’s health and education areas.
Quality of life is also downgraded due to the studies results displaying the UK residents are taking far less holidays, up to a week less than their European counterparts.
On average UK residents earn 10,000 pounds more than other Europeans however, paying up to 18% more for diesel, 6% more for unleaded petrol, 46% more for gas and 5% more for electricity compared to other Europeans.
Hundreds of thousands of UK residents and UK visa holders have realized the worsening crisis in Britain and have decided to act with their call to action being to migrate elsewhere. In fact migration rates in the past years have reached record heights.
The Australian Government's research shows record numbers of Australians are leaving the UK, and Britons are following closely in tow. While Spain and France may be closer to family and friends in the UK, Australia is offering UK migrants competitive salaries in skilled positions, a safer economic environment during the global credit crunch, a lower cost of living, and even a tropical climate.
With such migration and British opinions going around the Australia Government has seen an opportunity to help source solutions to the country’s own troubles with labour shortages. The Australian Government is currently heavily campaigning for more skilled workers from the UK to apply for an Australia visa so that increasing demands for development can be met, particularly in the construction and mining industries.
Showing posts with label emigration. Show all posts
Showing posts with label emigration. Show all posts
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Visa Approvals for Australian Immigration Rise
The number of approved temporary Australian visas approved has increased since last year, under the new Labor government. The visa (subclass 457) approvals in April and May increased to 6,130 a month, compared to the last six months of last year where an average of 4,625 visas were approved by the Howard government.
The high level of approvals may be attributed to an order from the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, to clear the backlog of applications by the end of this month. Bob Kinnaird, an immigration consultant, said businesses will be pleased by the news, with certain sectors benefiting more from the visa changes. "There has certainly been a big increase in manufacturing and construction and to a lesser extent mining," he added.
Mr Kinnaird said changes needed to be made to the systems in order to better support these Australian visa holders, including introducing fairer wages for the group. Currently several unions are looking to change the minimum wage awarded to the Australian visa holders and create a market wage in its place.
Source: Aust. Visa Bureau; 18.06.2008
The high level of approvals may be attributed to an order from the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, to clear the backlog of applications by the end of this month. Bob Kinnaird, an immigration consultant, said businesses will be pleased by the news, with certain sectors benefiting more from the visa changes. "There has certainly been a big increase in manufacturing and construction and to a lesser extent mining," he added.
Mr Kinnaird said changes needed to be made to the systems in order to better support these Australian visa holders, including introducing fairer wages for the group. Currently several unions are looking to change the minimum wage awarded to the Australian visa holders and create a market wage in its place.
Source: Aust. Visa Bureau; 18.06.2008
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Employer Nominated Visa Category
Australian businesses of all sizes are increasingly experiencing a shortage of skilled workers. If you are an employer, and unable to find a suitable Australian person to fill a position, you may be able to sponsor a highly skilled person from overseas.
REQUIREMENTS:
First the employer must apply for approval as a standard business sponsor and nominate the position(s) to be undertaken in Australia by the overseas worker. That means that the sponsor has to show that they are operating a lawful, reputable business in Australia, the sponsorship is of benefit to Australia and that they will be the direct employer of the applicant.
To nominate a position there must be a need for a paid overseas employee in a full-time position and the position must be on the list of approved occupations. This list is quite broad and includes trades people and professionals. The employer has to specify the kind of tasks the employee will need to perform and what experience and skills are required. The employer must also show that they will pay the employee the minimum salary specified by the government for migration purposes. They also have to accept certain obligations towards the employee including providing acceptable working conditions.
The overseas employee then applies for a visa to fill the nominated position. The employee must show that they possess the training, qualifications and experience which are necessary to fill the position. The employee will need to produce their qualifications and employment references and may be required to undergo a skills assessment.
You can sponsor overseas employees on a temporary term (from 3 months to 4 years) or for permanent residency. Although the requirements for a permanent visa are very similar, they are more stringent than for the temporary visa. For example for a permanent visa the applicant must be under 45 years this is not necessary if you apply for a temporary visa.
For further information, such as information about regional areas CLICK HERE
REQUIREMENTS:
First the employer must apply for approval as a standard business sponsor and nominate the position(s) to be undertaken in Australia by the overseas worker. That means that the sponsor has to show that they are operating a lawful, reputable business in Australia, the sponsorship is of benefit to Australia and that they will be the direct employer of the applicant.
To nominate a position there must be a need for a paid overseas employee in a full-time position and the position must be on the list of approved occupations. This list is quite broad and includes trades people and professionals. The employer has to specify the kind of tasks the employee will need to perform and what experience and skills are required. The employer must also show that they will pay the employee the minimum salary specified by the government for migration purposes. They also have to accept certain obligations towards the employee including providing acceptable working conditions.
The overseas employee then applies for a visa to fill the nominated position. The employee must show that they possess the training, qualifications and experience which are necessary to fill the position. The employee will need to produce their qualifications and employment references and may be required to undergo a skills assessment.
You can sponsor overseas employees on a temporary term (from 3 months to 4 years) or for permanent residency. Although the requirements for a permanent visa are very similar, they are more stringent than for the temporary visa. For example for a permanent visa the applicant must be under 45 years this is not necessary if you apply for a temporary visa.
For further information, such as information about regional areas CLICK HERE
Frequently Asked Immigration Questions part 4
IMMIGRATION AUTHORITIES AND MIGRATION AGENTS
- Will the immigration authorities or Embassy help me to prepare my application?
- Why should I use a migration agent?
- Can you guarantee the success of my application?
- What will my visa cost?
- How long will it take until my visa is granted?
- Can the immigration authorities refuse my application?
- What can I do if my application was refused by the immigration authorities?
- Once approved, how much time do I have until I have to move to Australia?
For more answers to frequently asked migration questions CLICK HERE
- Will the immigration authorities or Embassy help me to prepare my application?
- Why should I use a migration agent?
- Can you guarantee the success of my application?
- What will my visa cost?
- How long will it take until my visa is granted?
- Can the immigration authorities refuse my application?
- What can I do if my application was refused by the immigration authorities?
- Once approved, how much time do I have until I have to move to Australia?
For more answers to frequently asked migration questions CLICK HERE
Monday, June 16, 2008
From Singapore to Alice Springs - Migration Success Story
Caroline had been coming to Alice Springs from her home in Singapore for more than ten years, visiting her mother and her older brother. After studying in Australia she gained sponsorship under the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS).
She now has permanent residency and is looking forward to becoming an Australian citizen. "I used to come over and stay for three months then go back to Singapore and work," recalls Caroline. "I was just spending time with my family in Alice Springs. I wanted to find a way to stay in the Northern Territory, when my brother suggested I study here. I went to college in Alice Springs for two and half years to study child care and because I was enjoying it here and the people were so nice I decided to ask the childcare centre where I worked part-time to sponsor me to migrate."
For Caroline's employers at the YMCA Childcare Centre in Alice Springs, helping Caroline to migrate under RSMS was a win-win situation. Manager Anthony says there is shortage of qualified childcare workers. "We had Caroline here already, working part time as a student doing 20 hours a week, which her student visa allowed, and she was seeking support to stay in Alice Springs. We had a staff shortage and she had the skills. The advantage for us is that we get consistency in our staff." The YMCA Childcare Centre also values overseas staff for the multicultural influence they bring to the centre. A diversity of people makes it more interesting for the children. It's a definite plus to have different cultures in the workplace.
She now has permanent residency and is looking forward to becoming an Australian citizen. "I used to come over and stay for three months then go back to Singapore and work," recalls Caroline. "I was just spending time with my family in Alice Springs. I wanted to find a way to stay in the Northern Territory, when my brother suggested I study here. I went to college in Alice Springs for two and half years to study child care and because I was enjoying it here and the people were so nice I decided to ask the childcare centre where I worked part-time to sponsor me to migrate."
For Caroline's employers at the YMCA Childcare Centre in Alice Springs, helping Caroline to migrate under RSMS was a win-win situation. Manager Anthony says there is shortage of qualified childcare workers. "We had Caroline here already, working part time as a student doing 20 hours a week, which her student visa allowed, and she was seeking support to stay in Alice Springs. We had a staff shortage and she had the skills. The advantage for us is that we get consistency in our staff." The YMCA Childcare Centre also values overseas staff for the multicultural influence they bring to the centre. A diversity of people makes it more interesting for the children. It's a definite plus to have different cultures in the workplace.
Friday, June 13, 2008
Students on Australian visas should be 'wary of employers'
International students working in Australia are being warned to be wary when gaining employment in the country, reports the Age. Interviews from the Australian Research Council with 200 international students holding Australian visas found nearly 60 per cent could be receiving wages below the minimum standard.
The research found 58.1 per cent of students are paid less than AUS$15 per hour, with a third getting under AUS$10 an hour. People on an Australian visa are being warned to be fully informed when accepting a job and its conditions.
According to the newspaper, the study also found that many international students are offered to work more than the 20 hours allowed under their Australian visa requirements, meaning they engage in illegal 'off the books' work. Professor Chris Nyland, who was involved in the study, said he was pleased with the movements the Victorian government were making to develop policy options. The Federal Government recently changed the workplace regulation for international students, so that they are now automatically granted the right to work under their Australian visa, rather than having to apply for a separate visa.
Source: Aust. Visa Bureau: 12.06.2008
The research found 58.1 per cent of students are paid less than AUS$15 per hour, with a third getting under AUS$10 an hour. People on an Australian visa are being warned to be fully informed when accepting a job and its conditions.
According to the newspaper, the study also found that many international students are offered to work more than the 20 hours allowed under their Australian visa requirements, meaning they engage in illegal 'off the books' work. Professor Chris Nyland, who was involved in the study, said he was pleased with the movements the Victorian government were making to develop policy options. The Federal Government recently changed the workplace regulation for international students, so that they are now automatically granted the right to work under their Australian visa, rather than having to apply for a separate visa.
Source: Aust. Visa Bureau: 12.06.2008
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Australian Immigration Character Test 'Unfair'
All non-citizens looking to visit or immigrate to Australia need to meet certain character requirements, however many are calling for a system change ultimately labelling it unfair.
In the past four years 250 visas have been cancelled because of people not meeting the character test needs and already 68 refusals of occurred this year. Although in the grander scheme thousands enter Australia each month, the government have still been urged to amend the strict and unclear character checks.
The Australian Institute, an independent think tank, has led this character test criticism, "The criteria for what makes a non-citizen considered to be of bad character is too wide, too fuzzy and is not compliant with international human rights standards," it has said.
Although the institute agree that such a system needs to be in place, they argue that the current scheme needs to be amended and made more lenient.
Those with a criminal past or criminal association, as well as those that may pose a significant risk to the community automatically fail the character test. These are clearly serious issues and it is likely that most countries would refuse such applications.
However if a person evades debts or have avoided paying bills then the character test is also deemed unsuccessful. Minor breaches of past visas are also noted as an example of 'poor character.' Therefore serious issues are intermingled with the rather minor when it comes to the character test.
The fact of the matter is that it is essentially someone else's judgment of your character that could define if you enter Australia or not. The often subjective nature of the decision is what has caused the test to be labelled controversial.
Despite the severe rules when it comes to character assessment, a failed character test does not mean you will be refused outright. There are officials who decide whether to refuse an immigration application or cancel a visa and the test can be appealed in some cases. But if you are refused a visa or permit you are not permitted to enter Australia, even on a later date.
Australia is a popular destination, particularly when it comes to immigration. However because of harsh laws relating to the character test entrance down under can be difficult. Is it because of this that urgent calls to amend the system have come to the fore.
Source: Global Visas - 10/06/2008 by Liam Clifford
In the past four years 250 visas have been cancelled because of people not meeting the character test needs and already 68 refusals of occurred this year. Although in the grander scheme thousands enter Australia each month, the government have still been urged to amend the strict and unclear character checks.
The Australian Institute, an independent think tank, has led this character test criticism, "The criteria for what makes a non-citizen considered to be of bad character is too wide, too fuzzy and is not compliant with international human rights standards," it has said.
Although the institute agree that such a system needs to be in place, they argue that the current scheme needs to be amended and made more lenient.
Those with a criminal past or criminal association, as well as those that may pose a significant risk to the community automatically fail the character test. These are clearly serious issues and it is likely that most countries would refuse such applications.
However if a person evades debts or have avoided paying bills then the character test is also deemed unsuccessful. Minor breaches of past visas are also noted as an example of 'poor character.' Therefore serious issues are intermingled with the rather minor when it comes to the character test.
The fact of the matter is that it is essentially someone else's judgment of your character that could define if you enter Australia or not. The often subjective nature of the decision is what has caused the test to be labelled controversial.
Despite the severe rules when it comes to character assessment, a failed character test does not mean you will be refused outright. There are officials who decide whether to refuse an immigration application or cancel a visa and the test can be appealed in some cases. But if you are refused a visa or permit you are not permitted to enter Australia, even on a later date.
Australia is a popular destination, particularly when it comes to immigration. However because of harsh laws relating to the character test entrance down under can be difficult. Is it because of this that urgent calls to amend the system have come to the fore.
Source: Global Visas - 10/06/2008 by Liam Clifford
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
No Borders Migration Video's
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Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Skilled Visa - Tell me about it
This visa is suitable for people who are well qualified with work experience in their field. It aims to meet Australia's skills shortages and gives successful applicants permanent residence. This visa is appropriate for those who hold a university qualification or trade qualifications.
REQUIREMENTS:
If you want to apply for this visa you must be qualified and under 45 years of age when you apply for this visa. Your nominated occupation, which fits your skills and qualifications, must be on the list of approved occupations for migration to Australia, which is adjusted by the Government from time to time. (‘Skilled Occupations List' from DIAC) At present you can find managers, administrators, engineers, teachers, trade persons and most occupations in the medical sector on the list.
Before you apply for a visa you have to obtain a positive skills assessment by the relevant Australian skills assessing authority.
You also have to show recent work experience for a period of time in your field, or in another field that is on the skilled occupation list. In addition you have to show threshold English and also meet the health, character and public interest requirements.
To be granted this visa you must pass what is called the “points test”. Points are allocated for qualifications, age, English language ability, work experience, your spouse's skills. Extra points are given to those applicants who have family in Australia, who have Australian qualifications or those with skills in demand.
For further information about the points test or other requirements please click here and ask us your questions. Or post your queries here on our blog
REQUIREMENTS:
If you want to apply for this visa you must be qualified and under 45 years of age when you apply for this visa. Your nominated occupation, which fits your skills and qualifications, must be on the list of approved occupations for migration to Australia, which is adjusted by the Government from time to time. (‘Skilled Occupations List' from DIAC) At present you can find managers, administrators, engineers, teachers, trade persons and most occupations in the medical sector on the list.
Before you apply for a visa you have to obtain a positive skills assessment by the relevant Australian skills assessing authority.
You also have to show recent work experience for a period of time in your field, or in another field that is on the skilled occupation list. In addition you have to show threshold English and also meet the health, character and public interest requirements.
To be granted this visa you must pass what is called the “points test”. Points are allocated for qualifications, age, English language ability, work experience, your spouse's skills. Extra points are given to those applicants who have family in Australia, who have Australian qualifications or those with skills in demand.
For further information about the points test or other requirements please click here and ask us your questions. Or post your queries here on our blog
Friday, June 6, 2008
Homosexual/Gay & Migration, Visa's and Rights
The Migration Regulations governing migration to Australia make provision for Gay and Lesbian Couples in the Migration Regulations through the interdependent partner visas. The Interdependent visas are largely similar to the heterosexual spouse visas with one major exception.
Under the Partner program, couples may satisfy the threshold requirements by either satisfying the delegate of the Minister that they are in a genuine and continuing marital relationship or that they have been in a genuine and continuing de facto relationship for a period of at least 12 months immediately before the date of the application.
The former option is not available to same sex couples. It is a threshold requirement of the Interdependent visa that the applicant and sponsor have been in a de facto relationship for at least 12 months before the date of the application as a marriage for the Migration Regulations is one that is recognized by the Commonwealth Marriage Act 1958 - a marriage which is between a man and a woman.
Once in Australia, same sex relationships are not always recognised to the same extent as marital and in many cases de facto relationships. The most obvious distinction is the Marriage Act’s refusal to recognise same sex civil unions.
In most other areas of legislation same-sex couples are beginning to receive similar recognition to heterosexual couples. Centrelink(A government financial support centre)is likely to include changes to its policies following the April 2008 Federal Budget, and the deficiencies in the Family Law Act with respect to property settlements can be remedied to a certain extent by the Property Law Act in Queensland. There is also a recent push from one of Australia’s most senior former judges to grant same-sex couple’s access to the Family Court for property settlements rather than forcing them to make claims through the greater Court systems.
There remains a deep divide between those who seek the same rights for all couples and those who against. Nevertheless, it seems in Australia that the progression towards equal rights for all will continue on an incremental basis for many years to come.
Under the Partner program, couples may satisfy the threshold requirements by either satisfying the delegate of the Minister that they are in a genuine and continuing marital relationship or that they have been in a genuine and continuing de facto relationship for a period of at least 12 months immediately before the date of the application.
The former option is not available to same sex couples. It is a threshold requirement of the Interdependent visa that the applicant and sponsor have been in a de facto relationship for at least 12 months before the date of the application as a marriage for the Migration Regulations is one that is recognized by the Commonwealth Marriage Act 1958 - a marriage which is between a man and a woman.
Once in Australia, same sex relationships are not always recognised to the same extent as marital and in many cases de facto relationships. The most obvious distinction is the Marriage Act’s refusal to recognise same sex civil unions.
In most other areas of legislation same-sex couples are beginning to receive similar recognition to heterosexual couples. Centrelink(A government financial support centre)is likely to include changes to its policies following the April 2008 Federal Budget, and the deficiencies in the Family Law Act with respect to property settlements can be remedied to a certain extent by the Property Law Act in Queensland. There is also a recent push from one of Australia’s most senior former judges to grant same-sex couple’s access to the Family Court for property settlements rather than forcing them to make claims through the greater Court systems.
There remains a deep divide between those who seek the same rights for all couples and those who against. Nevertheless, it seems in Australia that the progression towards equal rights for all will continue on an incremental basis for many years to come.
Frequently Asked Immigration Questions part 2
SPECIAL QUESTIONS - MIGRATION PROCESS
Click on questions for their answer
*
Do I need formal qualifications to apply for skilled migration?
*
What does a skills assessment in my occupation mean?
*
If there is an Australian employer who will sponsor me, what fees must they pay?
*
What does ownership interest and a main business mean?
*
Will my visa application be granted if I am married to an Australian citizen?
What are my obligations if I give an Assurance of support?
*
Does the study in Australia cost something?
*
Will my study be approved in my home country?
Click on questions for their answer
*
Do I need formal qualifications to apply for skilled migration?
*
What does a skills assessment in my occupation mean?
*
If there is an Australian employer who will sponsor me, what fees must they pay?
*
What does ownership interest and a main business mean?
*
Will my visa application be granted if I am married to an Australian citizen?
What are my obligations if I give an Assurance of support?
*
Does the study in Australia cost something?
*
Will my study be approved in my home country?
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Tracing the new Australians online
THEY were the adventurers who set sail for the other side of the world with dreams of a better life down under.
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, around 2.2 million Britons boarded ships for New South Wales in Australia after being enticed by reports of a land with "the climate of Italy, the mountain scenery of Wales and the fertility of England".
The wave of immigration led to a boom in Australia's population, which rose from 53,000 in 1826, less than the current number of residents in Livingston, to 5.6 million by 1922 - more than the population of Scotland.
Now, names and other details of the migrants are being posted online, giving their descendants, thought to include more than 16 million Britons, the chance to trace their ancestors' journeys.
Read more...
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, around 2.2 million Britons boarded ships for New South Wales in Australia after being enticed by reports of a land with "the climate of Italy, the mountain scenery of Wales and the fertility of England".
The wave of immigration led to a boom in Australia's population, which rose from 53,000 in 1826, less than the current number of residents in Livingston, to 5.6 million by 1922 - more than the population of Scotland.
Now, names and other details of the migrants are being posted online, giving their descendants, thought to include more than 16 million Britons, the chance to trace their ancestors' journeys.
Read more...
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
90,000 more miners needed by 2020
The Minerals Council of Australia says skilled migration and better training programs are needed to ensure the sector can meet growing demand.
A study commissioned by the Council shows another 90,000 workers will be needed in the mining industry by 2020, an increase of 70 per cent on the current workforce.
CEO Mitch Hooke says the sector needs to service the long-term demand for Australian resources.
"We see skilled migration as an acute response to a chronic problem," he said.
"By that I mean, this is the way in which we can fill the gaps up front, but if you're going to have something that's sustainable long term, you need to correct the systemic problems you've got in the current education and training system.
"We spend three times more than any other sector in the country on training but mostly it's in-house because the systems that support our industry just are not there.
"We need reform of the VET [Vocational Education and Training] sector, it's got to respond to the needs of industry, not just have a supply push of institutions putting out people that they actually think suits their whole itinerary."
Source: ABC News - 03.06.2008
A study commissioned by the Council shows another 90,000 workers will be needed in the mining industry by 2020, an increase of 70 per cent on the current workforce.
CEO Mitch Hooke says the sector needs to service the long-term demand for Australian resources.
"We see skilled migration as an acute response to a chronic problem," he said.
"By that I mean, this is the way in which we can fill the gaps up front, but if you're going to have something that's sustainable long term, you need to correct the systemic problems you've got in the current education and training system.
"We spend three times more than any other sector in the country on training but mostly it's in-house because the systems that support our industry just are not there.
"We need reform of the VET [Vocational Education and Training] sector, it's got to respond to the needs of industry, not just have a supply push of institutions putting out people that they actually think suits their whole itinerary."
Source: ABC News - 03.06.2008
Australian migrants promised $34 million next financial year
The Australian Government announced today that it would be investing $34 million next year into a program designed to help migrants integrate easily into Australian society.
The Settlement Grants Program (SGP) has a total of 230 projects running Australia-wide and has the support of 168 organisations. The Parliamentary Secretary for Mulitcultural Affairs and Settlement Services, Laurie Ferguson, has said that the Government will fund the projects for those in need of assistance with settlement into the Australian community.
He said, "These projects will assist migrants and refugees in their cultural transition to Australia and build on their existing skills for their successful settlement." The purpose of the SGP, as outlined by the Government, is to help migrants and refugees maximise their involvement and productivity within the Australian economy, and to provide enough information and resources about the Australian life so that the stress of resettlement can be minimised.
Mr Ferguson also commented that the projects will help migrants and refugees to rent private property, as renting housing accomodation has been problematic for many moving to Australia who do not have any previous rental records or personal referees.
For those using an Australian Skilled Visa, the SGP will provide services for their dependants, particularly those with English as a second language. The Government is focused on providing support and knowledge for the families of those who migrate to Austraila, as evidence of their committment to their opening immigration policy and efforts for social cohesion.
The SGP has already shown positive results with settling refugees and migrants, and an extra $21million promised for upcoming projects is further evidence of the Government's committment to immigration.
Source: Aust. Visa Bureau 02.06.2008
The Settlement Grants Program (SGP) has a total of 230 projects running Australia-wide and has the support of 168 organisations. The Parliamentary Secretary for Mulitcultural Affairs and Settlement Services, Laurie Ferguson, has said that the Government will fund the projects for those in need of assistance with settlement into the Australian community.
He said, "These projects will assist migrants and refugees in their cultural transition to Australia and build on their existing skills for their successful settlement." The purpose of the SGP, as outlined by the Government, is to help migrants and refugees maximise their involvement and productivity within the Australian economy, and to provide enough information and resources about the Australian life so that the stress of resettlement can be minimised.
Mr Ferguson also commented that the projects will help migrants and refugees to rent private property, as renting housing accomodation has been problematic for many moving to Australia who do not have any previous rental records or personal referees.
For those using an Australian Skilled Visa, the SGP will provide services for their dependants, particularly those with English as a second language. The Government is focused on providing support and knowledge for the families of those who migrate to Austraila, as evidence of their committment to their opening immigration policy and efforts for social cohesion.
The SGP has already shown positive results with settling refugees and migrants, and an extra $21million promised for upcoming projects is further evidence of the Government's committment to immigration.
Source: Aust. Visa Bureau 02.06.2008
Monday, June 2, 2008
Immigration Update - July to December 2007
Follow the link below to read the latest publication of the Department's Immigration Update report.
Immigration Update Report - July to December 2007
Immigration Update Report - July to December 2007
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Why use a Migration Agent / Advocate?
For further information please refer to our office:
W: http://www.noborders-group.com
E: service@noborders-group.com
Ph: 0061 7 3876 4000
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
300,000 skilled workers needed - Evans
AUSTRALIA'S economy cannot continue to grow without a lot more skilled migrant workers, Immigration Minister Chris Evans says.
Senator Evans warned today of an ageing population and a range of industries that could not find enough skilled workers to enable their businesses to grow.
"So there is a huge demand. We will meet it by upskilling our own people, but we have got to make sure we have got strong skilled migration as well if we are going to grow," the senator told Sky news.
"We will be investing an awful lot in the education revolution and skilling our own people.
"But the reality is we have an ageing population. Unless we have migration we are not going to be able to grow our workforce."
Under a revised immigration program announced this week, Australia will substantially lift its intake of migrants, particularly those with necessary skills.
That includes 190,300 in the permanent migration stream, 56,500 in the family stream and about 50,000 in the temporary skilled migration program - totalling more than 300,000.
This is the biggest yearly increase since the immigration program was launched in the 1940s.
Senator Evans said for the first time in the past year the workforce grew more from imported labour than from Australians taking new jobs.
"So we have got to have skilled migration to grow the economy. At the moment there is a real constraint on our capacity to grow because we just don't have enough workers," he said.
Senator Evans said there were significant skilled vacancies in the growth states, and there was a challenge to better connect those coming into Australia with areas where there were jobs.
"We don't want them all flocking into Sydney," he said.
"We actually want them going to Queensland, Western Australian and South Australia where there is huge demand for skills that they can't find elsewhere."
Opposition immigration spokesman Chris Ellison said the Government was continuing what the Coalition Government started.
He said the Coalition lifted the skilled migration content from 30 to 70 per cent of the total program.
"So we certainly don't disagree with the Government's announcement that it will be increasing the skilled migration program by 31,000," he said.
"But it is important that the Government resource the Department of Immigration to accommodate this."
Senator Ellison said the Opposition would be assessing the impact of the Government's public service efficiency cuts.
He said he had received complaints from business on the time it takes to employ a worker under the 457 visa temporary skilled immigrant program.
Senator Ellison said the Government had also forecast a rise in unemployment.
"The whole purpose of skilled migrations is to ensure you are bringing in skilled people to fill jobs where no local worker is available. It will require careful management," he said.
May 17, 2008 06:13pm
Senator Evans warned today of an ageing population and a range of industries that could not find enough skilled workers to enable their businesses to grow.
"So there is a huge demand. We will meet it by upskilling our own people, but we have got to make sure we have got strong skilled migration as well if we are going to grow," the senator told Sky news.
"We will be investing an awful lot in the education revolution and skilling our own people.
"But the reality is we have an ageing population. Unless we have migration we are not going to be able to grow our workforce."
Under a revised immigration program announced this week, Australia will substantially lift its intake of migrants, particularly those with necessary skills.
That includes 190,300 in the permanent migration stream, 56,500 in the family stream and about 50,000 in the temporary skilled migration program - totalling more than 300,000.
This is the biggest yearly increase since the immigration program was launched in the 1940s.
Senator Evans said for the first time in the past year the workforce grew more from imported labour than from Australians taking new jobs.
"So we have got to have skilled migration to grow the economy. At the moment there is a real constraint on our capacity to grow because we just don't have enough workers," he said.
Senator Evans said there were significant skilled vacancies in the growth states, and there was a challenge to better connect those coming into Australia with areas where there were jobs.
"We don't want them all flocking into Sydney," he said.
"We actually want them going to Queensland, Western Australian and South Australia where there is huge demand for skills that they can't find elsewhere."
Opposition immigration spokesman Chris Ellison said the Government was continuing what the Coalition Government started.
He said the Coalition lifted the skilled migration content from 30 to 70 per cent of the total program.
"So we certainly don't disagree with the Government's announcement that it will be increasing the skilled migration program by 31,000," he said.
"But it is important that the Government resource the Department of Immigration to accommodate this."
Senator Ellison said the Opposition would be assessing the impact of the Government's public service efficiency cuts.
He said he had received complaints from business on the time it takes to employ a worker under the 457 visa temporary skilled immigrant program.
Senator Ellison said the Government had also forecast a rise in unemployment.
"The whole purpose of skilled migrations is to ensure you are bringing in skilled people to fill jobs where no local worker is available. It will require careful management," he said.
May 17, 2008 06:13pm
Debate Rages On as Australia Opt to Trial Pacific Guest Worker Scheme
Chris Evans, Australia's Minister for Immigration and Citizenship has said that he would like to initiate a trial guest worker scheme with migrants from the South Pacific.
It seems following previous departmental decisions to not run with the scheme; the Australian government has been forced yet again to consider a temporary workers scheme involving the Pacific Islands.
For a number of years the Pacific Islands have urged Australia to open up its labour market to help their economies through remittances. Such a program as the guest worker scheme could enable unskilled workers to enter the country on short term visas with the sole purpose of occupying the many jobs which Australians are unwilling or unable to fill.
The weakest areas of the job sectors such as farming and agriculture are the ones which are likely to see the benefits from the recruitment of Pacific Island workers. With jobs such as fruit picking in particular crying out to be filled. Under the scheme people would be able to come to the country and be employed in such seasonal jobs for an allocated period of time.
Speaking in support of the trial, Chris Evans said "immigration policies need an overhaul if the country is to address the current labour shortage…one way to address the problem could be the guest worker scheme."
Evans believes that a initative could have a double benefit for the country and the economy and in particular the economies of the South Pacific Islands.
In contrast Helen Hughes a journalist at Island Business believes the guest worker scheme is not a great idea. She says "It is estimated that the additional costs of air fares, health and security procedures, the insurance necessary to protect the workers and administrative costs could double the wage rates currently paid to seasonal workers."
She fears that such rising costs are unlikely to be met by employers therefore resulting in the Australian taxpayers footing the bill.
Another concern is the number of placements available. Although Australia is experiencing a skills shortage, there appears to be only a maximum 38,000 seasonal jobs which would become available annually for Pacific Islanders. Many argue that these positions should instead be filled by some of the many Australian citizens whom are currently experiencing long-term employment and are subsequently claiming welfare from the state.
The logistics of the jobs aside, it seems that the World Bank is one of the biggest advocates for the introduction of the scheme in Australia; viewing it as a potential method for providing increased Australian aid to the Pacific Islands.
The scheme is one which is leaving many Australians with a split opinion. Erin Ryan an Australian Immigration Worker at Global Visas believes that "There is a need for Australia to bring in temporary unskilled workers from the Pacific Islands particularly in order to fill seasonal jobs, however I think it will be a long time yet until a majority ruling implements a suitable scheme which is agreed by all to do so."
19/05/2008 by Ajay Hasija
It seems following previous departmental decisions to not run with the scheme; the Australian government has been forced yet again to consider a temporary workers scheme involving the Pacific Islands.
For a number of years the Pacific Islands have urged Australia to open up its labour market to help their economies through remittances. Such a program as the guest worker scheme could enable unskilled workers to enter the country on short term visas with the sole purpose of occupying the many jobs which Australians are unwilling or unable to fill.
The weakest areas of the job sectors such as farming and agriculture are the ones which are likely to see the benefits from the recruitment of Pacific Island workers. With jobs such as fruit picking in particular crying out to be filled. Under the scheme people would be able to come to the country and be employed in such seasonal jobs for an allocated period of time.
Speaking in support of the trial, Chris Evans said "immigration policies need an overhaul if the country is to address the current labour shortage…one way to address the problem could be the guest worker scheme."
Evans believes that a initative could have a double benefit for the country and the economy and in particular the economies of the South Pacific Islands.
In contrast Helen Hughes a journalist at Island Business believes the guest worker scheme is not a great idea. She says "It is estimated that the additional costs of air fares, health and security procedures, the insurance necessary to protect the workers and administrative costs could double the wage rates currently paid to seasonal workers."
She fears that such rising costs are unlikely to be met by employers therefore resulting in the Australian taxpayers footing the bill.
Another concern is the number of placements available. Although Australia is experiencing a skills shortage, there appears to be only a maximum 38,000 seasonal jobs which would become available annually for Pacific Islanders. Many argue that these positions should instead be filled by some of the many Australian citizens whom are currently experiencing long-term employment and are subsequently claiming welfare from the state.
The logistics of the jobs aside, it seems that the World Bank is one of the biggest advocates for the introduction of the scheme in Australia; viewing it as a potential method for providing increased Australian aid to the Pacific Islands.
The scheme is one which is leaving many Australians with a split opinion. Erin Ryan an Australian Immigration Worker at Global Visas believes that "There is a need for Australia to bring in temporary unskilled workers from the Pacific Islands particularly in order to fill seasonal jobs, however I think it will be a long time yet until a majority ruling implements a suitable scheme which is agreed by all to do so."
19/05/2008 by Ajay Hasija
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