In what can be termed as a disappointing news, Australia has announced modifications to the 457 visa for skilled foreign workers to restrict their ability to look for another job once their official employment completes, a move that is surely going to have an impact on Indians working in Australia.
With this move, foreign workers on a 457 visa ill only now be able to stay in the country for a period of two months after their employment ends instead of 90.
“The change is expected toassist in ensuring that the 457 programme metits intent of acting as a supplement to, rather than a substitute for, Australian workers apart from reducingthe vulnerability of 457 visa holders, who were only permitted to work for an approved sponsor and were not eligible for unemployment benefits, from entering into informal employment arrangements.”
The minister added that the government objective was to make sure that Australian workers have priority.