08 October, 2014 | Media Release
Unions are shocked and disappointed at reports that foreign workers on 457 visas will be used to build one of the biggest infrastructure projects in Victoria’s history.
ACTU President Ged Kearney said the news came just a day after Victorian Premier Denis Napthine announced his local jobs plan and promised that the $6.8 billion project would be a boon for young workers and apprentices that would set them up with skills for the rest of their lives.
“It is extraordinary that just a day after Premier Napthine promised thousands of new jobs for Victorians that the first job we’ve seen advertised is one to coordinate foreign workers,” Ms Kearney said.
“The ink is barely dry on the contract and there’s already a job advertised for an Immigration Adviser to manage 457 visa applications for the East-West Link project.
“It’s outrageous - unemployment is at around 6.8 per cent in Victoria and just over 6 per cent nationally.
“This project is being paid for by both the Victorian and Federal Governments – how can they allow temporary workers to be brought in from overseas when there are Victorian and Australian workers desperate for jobs?”
Ms Kearney said it is further proof the 457 visa scheme is deeply flawed.
“Unions have been calling for a Senate Inquiry into the 457 visa scheme and this disgraceful news highlights exactly why a Senate Inquiry is needed,” said Ms Kearney.
“The Abbott Government constantly defends the 457 visa program by claiming employers are required to genuinely look for local workers first – this job advertisement clearly demonstrates what a farce that is.
“The East-West Link project is an opportunity to provide decent jobs for Australian workers at a time when unemployment is sky high and many families are struggling with the rising cost of living.”
Ms Kearney said Unions have always maintained that employers must show they have genuinely tried to recruit local workers before looking overseas, while employers who do recruit workers on 457 visas must invest in training local workers as well.
“Australians want a Government with a plan to create jobs and strengthen the economy – but the Abbott Government’s answer is to make it easier for big business to bring in foreign workers instead.
“Australia’s migration program should not be at the beck and call of big business – a Senate Inquiry is the only way to get to the bottom of this Government’s mess.”
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