Following widespread outcry at last year’s axing of the 457 skilled work visa, the Federal Government has announced details of the replacement scheme, aimed at enabling businesses to bring workers with high-tech expertise to Australia.
The new ‘Global Talent Scheme’ will have two main components: established businesses with annual turnover of over $4 million will be able to sponsor highly skilled individuals for positions with salaries above $180,000; and technology-based, STEM-related start-ups will also be able to sponsor workers with specialised technology skills.
Any sponsoring business will have to demonstrate that they prioritise the employment of Australians, and in the case of established businesses, that there will be skills transfer to Australian workers.
Both schemes will enable the awarding of a four-year Temporary Skill Shortage visa, with permanent residence applications available after three years.
The government plans to consult industry on the details of the scheme ahead of the commencement of a pilot program from 1 July 2018.
Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs Alan Tudge said that the new scheme recognises that global talent is in high demand, and the government needs to provide pathways for Australian businesses to access this talent pool.
“We want to ensure that Australian businesses can access the best talent in the world, because this will underpin business growth, skills transfer and job creation,” Minister Tudge said. “At all stages, Australians are prioritised for the jobs, but where the skills and experience are not available here, we want to be able to attract talent from overseas. This is part of the ongoing reforms to our skilled visa programs to ensure that Australians have priority for Australian jobs, but acknowledge that there are times when the skills are not available in the country.”
