New DIAC Requirements for sponsored overseas workers - 457 visas | 27 Feb 2009

The Minister for Immigration, the Hon, Senator Chris Evans, has recently announced that Australian Employer sponsors will be required to provide a greater burden of proof, as to the need for overseas workers to fill nominated roles. 

Previously, the declaration made by the Australian sponsor, regarding the need of the Australian business to fill certain positions with overseas labour, was mostly accepted, without further enquiry.

However, due to the current economic climate and the tightening of the Australian job market, the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) policy section, Canberra, have instructed all DIAC decision makers to make further enquiries regarding the need to nominate roles to be filled by overseas workers and what economic benefit there will be for that Australian business and Australia generally.

Another area which will be examined by DIAC, will be the efforts made by the sponsoring business, to source the required labour, from the local job market.

This new requirement, while adding an extra burden to potential Australian Employer sponsors, is designed to protect the local jobs.  However, providing appropriate submissions are made to DIAC, sponsoring overseas workers is still very much a viable option.

With the Minister’s new directions in place and part of current Australian Immigration policy, it is crucial that appropriately constructed submissions are made to the DIAC, which will ensure the best chance of a successful sponsorship of an overseas worker.

Accordingly, please feel free to consult one of our Registered Migration Agents, who will be happy to advise you on all your sponsorship needs.

Life Relocation Migration Team