Master Builders Australia (MBA) has become the latest group to stand up for skilled workers looking to move to the country.
It is calling on the government to block the Migration Amendment (Temporary Sponsored Visas) 2013 Bill, which aims to crack down on the number of immigrants moving to Australia using 457 visas.
The 457 visa was implemented as a means of addressing skills shortages in Australia by allowing migrants with particular talents to come to the country to work.
However, the new bill will increase testing for job roles as some ministers fear that Australians sometimes fail to gain these positions in favour of 457 workers.
Responding to the bill, chief executive officer of MBA William Harnisch said: "The attack on legitimate 457 visa workers and sponsoring employers has to stop. It is damaging to business confidence and for Australia’s international reputation as an employer."
He claims that the government's policy is not based on evidence and that it has simply followed ideas put across by unions.
Posted by Craig Francis
