I welcome the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans appointment of IR Commissioner Barbara Deegan to examine the integrity of the temporary skilled migration (457 class visa) program, said today.
The Canberra community has witnessed several incidences under the former Howard Government where migrant workers have been poorly and unfairly treated, in particular Philippino chefs and cooks.
“I warmly welcome this Review and am confident it will help to ensure this kind of exploitation never occurs again under the 457 Class visa program.
“In a civil society such as Australia, all employees are entitled to fair pay and working conditions, a safe and healthy working environment and to be free of abuse and exploitation, whether they are from here or overseas.
“A working party of industry and trade union leaders will be formed to provide a forum for Ms Deegan to access relevant information.
“I would expect that responsible local employer associations and unions will welcome this Review and participate constructively to ensure the future of the Program is free of abuse and exploitation.
“The Rudd Labor Government is determined to address the skills shortages we are currently experiencing including here in Canberra, and ensuring the temporary skilled migrant worker program has integrity and protections is essential,” Senator Lundy said.
The terms of reference for the review include examining:
- Measures to strengthen the integrity of the temporary skilled migration (Subclass 457 visa) program;
- The employment conditions that apply to workers employed under the temporary skilled migration program;
- The adequacy of measures to protect 457 visa holders from exploitation;
- The health and safety protections and training requirements that apply in relation to temporary skilled workers;
- The English language requirements for the granting of temporary skilled migration workers’ visas; and
- The opportunities for Labor Agreements to contribute to the integrity of the temporary skilled migration program.
For information or further comment, contact Meg Martin on 62300411 or 0422 409 614
