Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard today backed a recent crackdown on alleged abuse of foreign temporary work visas, saying that the changes in visa scheme would get the “out of control” system back on track.
Under the 457 visa scheme, Australian employers can sponsor qualified overseas workers to the fill nominated positions for up to four-years, if the vacancy cannot be filled locally.
When asked about the government’s recent crackdown on alleged abuse of foreign temporary work visas, including reducing the number of applications that can be made under the scheme and requiring businesses to demonstrate a genuine skill shortage in their area of operations, Gillard said Australian workers should come first.
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