Australia: Government Releases Draft Employer Obligations for Overseas Workers
Australia’s government has released draft regulations outlining new sponsorship obligations for employers of temporary skilled overseas workers who hold Subclass 457 visas. The Subclass 457 visa program is an uncapped scheme driven by market demand for employers to sponsor skilled overseas workers for up to four years.
A panel of industry, union and state government representatives will be assessing the proposed new regulations and will provide feedback to government. Proposed employer obligations to be considered by the panel include:
- Payment of a minimum salary to Subclass 457 visa holders;
- Payment of return travel costs for visa holders and their spouses; and
- Cooperating with inspectors exercising powers under the Worker Protection Act.
