Australian work visas in decline
May 26 2009 by Gareth McConnell
Senator Chris Evans
The number of people on temporary Australian work visas has dropped to its lowest level in four years, a Department of Immigration and Citizenship report shows.
The number of 457 Australian work visas issued in April is 23 per cent lower than March and overall, the 43,360 visas issued by Australian immigration is down four per cent.
Australian immigration minister Chris Evans has attributed the drop to several changes in the Australian immigration system including requiring employers to advertise jobs to local workers and offering foreign workers the same pay and conditions as Australian workers.
'The subclass 457 visa program is showing that it is responding to the economic conditions and reduced demand in the labour market,' Senator Evans said.
'While the number of workers coming to Australia under the scheme has slowed considerably, there will continue to be demand for skills in some sectors, such as healthcare, so there will still be a need for employers to access skilled overseas workers.'
The 457 Australian work visa scheme allows foreigners with a sponsor to work in Australia for up to four years. The UK is currently the largest recipient of Australian work visas, with a 20 per cent share.
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