On the 29 November 2011, the Gillard Government released its Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook for 2011-2012. Of particular note was the announcement of reforms to the Living Away from Home (LAFH) benefits concessions in the Fringe Benefits Tax Assessment Act 1986.

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As the Australian resources boom moves into top gear, many companies are facing the challenge of where and how to find enough workers. The shortage of trades and semi-skilled labour in particular means that many employers are looking overseas to fill the gap.

CENTIEM has recently published articles in a number of industry magazines which look at the migration options available for Australian companies in the resouces sector wanting to sponsor overseas workers, and the issues that can arise. To read the articles click below:

Mining, People and the Environment

Australasian Drilling

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CENTIEM believes that Australian and overseas businesses need a simple short-term visa that allows key employees to work in Australia for short periods of time (usually less than three months). For that reason CENTIEM has established a specific project to review the current business visitor visa system and provide submissions to Government about how it could better serve the interests of business.

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09 May 2012

On 8 May 2012, Treasurer Wayne Swan released the 2012-13 Budget for the Gillard Government announcing measures to return the budget “to surplus while ensuring families and small businesses share in the benefits of the resources boom”.

The accompany Department of Immigration & Citizenship (DIAC) Portfolio Budget Statements outline a number of strategic priorities for DIAC for 2012-13 including:

• Contributing to Australia's economic, labour market, social and environmental objectives through a holistic long-term planning framework for temporary and permanent migration; and
• Consolidating changes to the skilled migration program to ensure it is responsive to economic cycles, the needs of industry and employers, and better address the nation's future skills needs.

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07 May 2012

A labour hire firm is being prosecuted by the Fair Work Ombudsman for allegedly underpaying a Student visa holder more than $8000. Also facing prosecution is the sole director of the labour hire firm which has been engaged in supplying catering and hospitality workers to clients.

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13 April 2012

In a joint media release with the US Ambassador, Minister Chris Bowen and Senator Chris Evans, announced plans to streamline licencing arrangements for US tradespeople.

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