Training and Workforce Development Minister Peter Collier says the federal government's visa process is holding back the ability of skilled workers to enter Western Australia.
Training and Workforce Development Minister Peter Collier says the federal government's visa process is holding back the ability of skilled workers to enter Western Australia.
Mr Collier said a state government delegation to the United Kingdom targeting skilled migrants had received a positive response, but potential candidates reported facing significant hurdles with the federal government's visa process.
"Coming to the end of our trip, we have met thousands of people in the UK," he said in a statement.
"The one clear message we are constantly being given is that people want to come to WA but are often frustrated by the federal visa process, which is holding back the ability of skilled workers coming to the sate.
"The government has appealed for changes to the federal migration program to help WA supplement its workforce needs - I met with Immigration and Citizenship Minister Chris Bowen in March to discuss these changes in detail.
"It's no secret that there will be huge demands on WA's future workforce needs - its been well documented and reported, yet the federal government seems completely oblivious to our requirements."
Mr Collier said WA was facing a potential shortfall of up to 150,000 workers by 2017, with more than $225 billion in resources and infrastructure projects planned or under construction in the state.
He said the state required assistance from the federal government to attract and retain enough skilled workers to meet future demand.
Key points the Minister raised with Mr Bowen during their meeting included recognition of Perth under the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme; providing greater flexibility with visas, particularly in expanding the type of skilled occupations that qualify for 457 visas; expanding the use of Working Holiday Maker and Student visas; reviewing the new International English Language Test Score; considering incentives to increase the level of foreign students entering Australia and to encourage them to join the domestic workforce; reviewing the proposed new points test requirements for the Skilled Migration Program; and reviewing the allocation of State sponsored visas.
"While I finally received a response to the issues raised, after at least three months, it's not good news for WA," Mr Collier said.
"WA has presented some real solutions to assist with our workforce needs, but it seems the Federal Government is not willing to discuss alternatives beyond their existing parameters.
"This is further proof that the Federal Government has little or no understanding of what's required to support the State's future workforce demands."
