NSW signs 457 work visa accord with Commonwealth
NSW Minister for Finance Joe Tripodi today announced a joint agreement with the Commonwealth Government to improve information sharing on the use of temporary foreign skilled workers in Australia.
"WorkCover NSW has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Commonwealth Department of Immigration and Citizenship on the 457-visa scheme," Mr Tripodi said.
"The Federal Government has agreed to share information, including the name of all NSW businesses sponsoring workers under the scheme since July 1 2007.
"The information will also include the number of 457 visa workers employed, the nature and duration of their work and the address of NSW sponsored work places.
"Both parties have agreed to provide information on any work-related fatalities or incidents where a 457 visa holder has been identified," Mr Tripodi said.
The NSW Government has been vocal in its concerns about the welfare of temporary skilled foreign workers working with Australian employers under the Commonwealth 457 visa program, and the broader safety and workers compensation implications this brings.
"NSW is pleased to see the Commonwealth has commenced a review of the temporary skilled migration program to address concerns about the exploitation of migrant workers.
"I am also pleased to see the proposal by the Commonwealth to introduce new laws to reform the 457 visa program" said Mr Tripodi.
"This shows the issues raised by the NSW Government are being taken seriously in Canberra.
"The establishment of cooperative arrangements with the Commonwealth Government will help to ensure all foreign workers are aware of their rights and entitlements under New South Wales workplace safety and workers compensation laws," Mr Tripodi said
