We have been intently monitoring the upcoming changes to the employer sponsored program coming later in 2024 with the 482 program being replaced with the Skills in Demand Program.
In case you are not aware the Skills in Demand Visa will be broken into three categories;
Level 1: Those paid over $135,000 per annum
Level 2: Those paid between $70,000 and $135,000; and
Level 3: Those paid under $70,000 per annum. All trade workers are included in Level 3 regardless of salary level.
The National budget from Tuesday last week also shows that the government is seeking to slash the migration program. The main target in achieving this is international students which will impact many businesses which rely on International Students with part time work rights. Hospitality businesses especially will be severely impacted by the changes.
Job and Skills Australia are also doing a review of the skilled occupation list for release with the new visa program. They have broken the list in three categories;
The current draft has the following occupations either targeted for removal or listed for further consultation which may see them removed or restricted further.
Café/Restaurant Manager (Level 2)
Cook (Level 3)
Chef (Level 3)
Even if Cook and Chef remain on the list they will be regarded as level 3 trade occupations putting them in the most difficult category for approval under the new program. This level requires union consultation on sponsored hires (i.e. on the information released to date).
We are currently talking to our clients about strategies to future proof their businesses. These strategies could include applying for employer specific labour agreements or where possible signing into the various DAMA labour agreements around the country which cover many regional areas where you may have businesses operating. As labour agreements operate for a five year term an approval would see the ability to continue to sponsor those in critical occupations for the business regardless of any change that comes to the program.
