457 Visa

http://www.computerworld.com.au/index.php/id;1543938596

According to Medibank Private thousands of 457 visa holders are uninsured, despite immigration regulations specifying that sponsoring employers are responsible for the cost of medical treatment and repatriation (if required) for the visa holder and any dependents.

The IT industry employs more 457 visa holders than any other industry, and while it may seem to carry a lower risk compared to jobs in mining and manufacturing, even the simplest of medical treatments can end up costing the employer thousands of dollars, according to the health insurer.

INDUSTRIAL relations commissioner Barbara Deegan has been hired to examine the integrity of the 457 skilled migrant visa scheme as the Rudd Government tries to improve the effectiveness of the system.

Minister for Immigration and Citizenship Senator Chris Evans said Ms Deegan had been asked to look into concerns about the exploitation of migrant workers, salary levels and English language requirements.

The review will report periodically to Senator Evans and Workplace Relations Julia Gillard with a final report to be presented by October 1.

It comes after key groups, including the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union through national secretary John Sutton, who has campaigned hard against abuses of the 457 scheme, called on the Government to increase the minimum salary level paid to the imported workers. The rate has remained static for nearly two years.

The commissioner has been asked to review the Temporary Business Long Stay subclass 457 program and provide options to improve the integrity of the scheme, Senator Evans said.

Ms Deegan will take leave from her current position as commissioner of the Australian Industrial Relations Commission for six months to undertake this independent role.

Ms Deegan will consult with overseas workers, union and industry representatives as well as relevant commonwealth, state and territory agencies.

A working party of industry and trade union leaders will be formed to provide a forum for Ms Deegan to access relevant information.

http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,…5013946,00.html