In 2014 the ASU National Conference debated a number of issues around the misuse of 457 Visas and difficulties faced by 457 Visa holders in Australia.
The ASU view was to monitor the use of 457 Visas in our areas of coverage and seek to increase scrutiny by authorities. Our position is that local workers should be up-skilled and employers should try to relocate local staff and provide training before applying for 457 Visas to fill vacancies.
In recent weeks, the Australian Parliament took action on some of the steps to stop the exploitation of 457 Visa workers and restore the balance. While the ASU thinks the additional amendments, including from Labor, should have been included, we are mindful of these first steps.
The ASU will continue to push for further changes through political lobbying and policy work.
"The ASU has been a long standing supporter of ensuring a high quality well trained workforce as one of the ways to achieve long term local employment, as well as job security and career advancement," said Greg McLean, ASU Assistant National Secretary.