Over 50 occupations are set to be axed as the Turnbull Government cracks down on the 457 Visa
The 457 Skilled Worker’s Temporary Visa has come under intense scrutiny as part of the Turnbull government’s regime. Only weeks ago, changes were made to visa holders who lose employment, who now only have sixty days to find a new job or leave the country, instead of ninety (as was the case before the 19th of November). This proposed action from the Government mirrors a lot of populist sentiment. For example, many commentators have voiced opinions that the Brexit mirrored a vote on immigration, and we do not need to delve into the specifics of Donald Trump’s firm stance on border protection. From what we can see, two major economic powerhouses are taking a tougher stance on immigration and Australia seems to be following suit.
Minister of Immigration and Border Protection, Peter Dutton, noted that the change ensures “that the 457 programme meets its intent of acting as a supplement…for Australian workers.” This protectionist mentality shows why the Government are now considering drastic changes to the Consolidated Skilled Occupations List, which according to Mr. Dutton, must be “condensed”.
The criteria for an occupation to be included as part of the CSOL is that the occupation “benefits (in Australia) from skilled migration”.
Over fifty occupations are at risk of being cut, including jobs in Engineering, Teaching and in the Medical sector. This is because that the job markets in these industries are in, or are at risk of being in over-supply in the medium- to long-term.
“Where there is an Australian worker ready, willing and able to perform a role it is the Government’s policy that they have priority,” Mr Dutton said.
Some of the occupations at risk of being axed include: *
– Accountant (ANZSCO Code 221111)
– Barrister (271111)
– Chef (351311)
– Aeronautical Engineer (233911)
– Chemical Engineer (233111)
– Civil Engineer (233211)
– Electronics Engineer (233411)
– Mechanical Engineer (233512)
– Structural Engineer (233214)
– Paediatrician (253321)
– Podiatrist (252611)
– Speech Pathologist (252712)
– Veterinarian (234711)
It is expected that the changes to the CSOL will be introduced in July 1, 2017. However, this is not guaranteed, and changes may be made sooner. The advice is clear: if you are an employer or prospective visa applicant with a potential new 457 application to be made in the next 12 months, do it now. Even if your 457 visa doesn’t expire for a year or more, you can still apply for a new one now and obtain a fresh 4-year visa validity. You may also wish to bring forward any plans for PR applications. The government has surprised the immigration industry before with unexpected changes without warning. In short, it is imperative that if you wish to apply for, or sponsor an employee for a 457 Visa, it is in your best interest to apply as soon as possible while your occupation remains on the list.
Don’t be a victim – contact PAX Migration Australia and get your employer sponsored or skilled migration visa now!
*For a full list see here
