Learn about skilled migrant labour at Ag-Quip ‘11

RDA Northern Inland Executive Officer Nathan Axelsson and Senior Project Officer, Kim-Trieste Hastings, with immigration information in hand.

AgQuip is far more than Australia's biggest showcase of agri-products, it is also a valuable learning opportunity. At this year’s AgQuip, Regional Development Australia Northern Inland (RDANI) and the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) will be on hand with information about sourcing skilled workers from overseas.

RDANI Executive Officer, Nathan Axelsson advises that representatives of the Immigration Department will have a stand in the NSW Farmers’ AgQuip site on 16, 17 and 18 August, 2011. "They will be joined by our Senior Project Officer, Kim-Trieste Hastings," he said. "RDANI is the region's only employer sponsored visa certifying body. It’s important that we continue to assist organisations to keep abreast of constantly changing immigration laws. We work closely with the Immigration Department and it’s appropriate that we join forces to deliver the latest information about skilled migration at AgQuip."

According to Mr Axelsson, the skills and labour shortage is impacting on the agricultural sector, just as it is in other aspects of the Northern Inland NSW economy, such as medical, mining and trade industries. "It is difficult for employers in the agricultural sector to attract and retain appropriately skilled workers in this region. So, the skilled migrant option is extremely important for continued economic development in this region."

"NSW Trade and Investment has provided RDANI with funding assistance to support our efforts to raise regional awareness of the skilled migration option. AgQuip is an ideal event at which RDANI and Immigration representatives can come face-to-face with the rural business operators, provide information and answer questions to complex issues," he said.

Senior Project Officer, Kim Trieste Hastings said there has been strong demand for skilled migrants throughout the region. "I have certified visas for workers employed by farmers in the North West and I've seen how this option can be a real win-win. There are ideally qualified workers in other countries who cannot find suitable work due to the poor economic climate internationally. Under an employer sponsored visa, they must stick to a two-year contract, after which they can apply for permanent residency."

“I’d like to see employers in the region, who are finding it difficult to attract skilled labour for their particular occupations come along and have a chat to us at AgQuip. Even if you are not certain you want to go down the skilled migration path, it makes sense to know your options,” Ms Hastings said.