Employers Urged to Consider Employing Skilled Migrants

Our Senior Skilled Migration and Project Officer, Gary Fry has highlighted the need for employers to consider skilled migrants when assessing job applicants. “The skilled migrants that have come to our region are highly skilled individuals that have a lot to provide our businesses and communities. They have passed a range of tests to be here, including high levels of English and tertiary qualifications. These people, and their families, have committed to being part of our communities, and many have been here for several years, working towards obtaining permanent residency. Unfortunately, as they are not yet permanent residents, they are unable to access Government support, and many are suffering greatly as they too have lost their jobs and their only source of income.”

The Skilled Regional State Sponsored migrants (holders of the 489 visa) who have been brought to this region are on a concrete pathway to permanent residency and should be considered for permanent positions. They are committed to living and working in the region for at least two years and will hopefully settle for the medium to long-term. We encourage employers to consider 489 visa holders in the same light as any Permanent Resident or Citizen of Australia. They are considered Australian for taxation purposes and there are no additional burdens on employers, however they need to work at least 35 hours per week for at least one year and live regionally for at least two years in order to become eligible to apply for their 887 Permanent Residency Visa.

“There is a highly qualified and experience skilled migrant labour pool sitting in this region right now looking for employment and they are very keen to work. They are not eligible for any form of Government Assistance and are keen to grab any opportunity.” said Mr. Fry

Employers can connect with skilled migrants that are in our region on our Skilled Migration Jobs Board on Facebook. If you have any queries about the program as an employer, you can contact Gary at gfry@rdani.org.au or on 0427 008 572.