Introduction

In the wake of the global pandemic, the Australian Government has adopted a meticulous approach to skilled migration. The objective is to address critical skill shortages while prioritizing the health and economic well-being of its citizens. The strategy involves employer-sponsored visas, designed to strike a balance between local workforce opportunities and overseas talent infusion.

Ensuring Australian Workers’ Interests

Employer-sponsored visas are underpinned by a set of safeguards to safeguard the interests of Australian workers. These measures guarantee that foreign workers complement, rather than replace, the local workforce. Several safeguards include:

  • Market Salary Rates: Sponsored workers are entitled to receive salaries on par with market rates.
  • Minimum Salary Requirement: A minimum salary threshold of $53,900 is mandated.
  • Limited Eligible Occupations: Only occupations in demand in the Australian labor market, as determined by the Department of Education, Skills and Employment, are eligible for sponsorship.
  • Contribution to Skilling Australians Fund: Employers are required to contribute to the Skilling Australians Fund.
  • Relevant Registrations and Licenses: Overseas workers must hold relevant Australian licenses, registrations, and certificates.
  • Skills, English Proficiency, Age, and Experience Criteria: Specific criteria, including skills, language proficiency, age, and experience, are required for overseas workers.
  • Labor Market Testing: For certain visas, employers need to demonstrate that suitable Australian candidates cannot be found, necessitating a test of the local labor market.
  • Scrutiny on Employer Nominations: The economic effects of COVID-19 have led to increased scrutiny of employer-sponsored applications, prioritizing opportunities for Australian workers.

Employer Obligations and Sponsorship

When becoming a sponsor, employers must fulfill specific obligations to sponsored workers, which may extend even after the worker ceases employment. The obligations vary based on the employer’s responsibilities and the chosen visa type.

Who Can Become a sponsor?

Any legally established and operating business can apply for sponsorship. This includes businesses that hold Labor Agreements, enabling them to sponsor overseas workers. Different types of sponsorships can be held concurrently, such as Standard Business Sponsorship and Labor Agreements.

Sponsoring Skilled Workers

Employers can sponsor skilled workers both temporarily and permanently. Skilled workers can be overseas residents looking to work in Australia, individuals already in Australia with work restrictions, or those already working in the country on different visas.

For roles not listed on the Skilled Occupations List, employers might negotiate a labor agreement. High-skill niche positions can be addressed through the Global Talent Scheme. Certain visa holders already possessing work rights or eligibility to apply for a visa independently do not require sponsorship.

How to Sponsor

The process of sponsoring workers varies based on the visa category. If eligible, employers can also seek Labor Agreements, albeit as a last resort for addressing skill shortages. A crucial step involves nominating a worker for a specific occupation.

Growmore Immigration: Bridging Employers and Overseas Talent

In this complex landscape of employer-sponsored visas, Growmore Immigration emerges as a vital ally for businesses seeking to navigate the intricacies of overseas worker sponsorship. With a deep understanding of immigration regulations and a commitment to fostering skilled talent exchange, Growmore Immigration facilitates seamless and compliant sponsorship processes for employers.

Conclusion

Australia’s approach to employer-sponsored visas reflects a delicate balance between skill acquisition and safeguarding local job opportunities. With stringent safeguards in place, businesses can bring in overseas talent while ensuring that Australian workers remain at the forefront of economic recovery. Growmore Immigration stands as a partner for employers, simplifying the sponsorship journey and helping bridge the gap between global talent and local workforce needs.