AUSTRALIAN IMMIGRATION NEWS

Increase in temporary skilled migration visas

Thursday, 24 July 2008

Australia has increased the total number of temporary work visas granted this year by 27% compared to last year.

Due to the severe skills shortage that is facing the nation, Australia is continually looking overseas in order to deliver skilled migrants to Australian employers across a wide range of professions and industries.

A total of 110,570 temporary work visas were issued for the temporary skilled migrant program for 2007-08, an increase of 27% from the previous year.

The largest increase came in Western Australia, where the mining boom has left employers struggling to find skilled workers in the mining industry. With a 41% increase in applications, WA is second only to NSW, which remained the biggest user of the temporary skilled migration program, importing 24,480 workers from overseas.

The data was released by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship. Below is a list of industries showing the percentage increase from 2007.

Health and Community services - 21%
Property and Business services - 33%
Construction - 36%
Manufacturing - 26%
Communication services - 10%
Mining - 36%
Accommodation, Cafes and Restaurants - 22%
Finance and Insurance - 48%
Education - 27%
Retail Trade - 58%

There has also been a 35% increase in the number of visas for Chefs. Similar to the mining industry, the greatest increase for Chefs was in Western Australia, with a 52% increase, indicating the high demand for skilled chefs in the State.

The Australian Government has also indicated that it will increase salary and working conditions of temporary skilled migrants.

Senator Chris Evans stated that the minimum salary level for 457 visa holders will increase by 3.8%. The average salary for a 457 visa holder is $73,100, which is higher than the Australian National Average of $55,000.

Salaries for foreign workers in the mining industry have increased from $92,200 to $103,700 since 2007, indicating that miners are one of Australia’s best paid workers.

If you are interested in Visas to Australia, contact Migration Expert for information and advice on which visa is best suited to you. You can also try our visa eligibility assessment to see if you are eligible to apply for a visa to Australia.