Positive experiences of skilled migrants
Letter to the Editor - The Sydney Morning Herald
2 March 2004
Dear Sir/Madam
The University of Western Sydney report (Doctor, the hospital, please 27/2/04) is a useful discussion of the Australian labour market experiences of a small number of recently arrived migrants. But what the report does not highlight is that most migrants who enter under the Skilled Stream of the Migration Program have highly positive experiences in finding employment in Australia that makes good use of their skills.
Skilled Stream migrants under the current program achieve lower unemployment rates and higher earnings than the Australian average within 18 months of arrival. Around half the applicants in the Skilled Independent category last financial year had Australian qualifications.
Migrants entering on Skilled Stream visas have little difficulty in meeting Australian occupational requirements. Professor Sue Richardson of the National Institute of Labour Studies has found that the skill recognition systems in place are working commendably.
It is true that some Family and Humanitarian migrants with skills and qualifications gained overseas experience difficulty meeting Australia's registration and licensing requirements. In recognition of the importance of Australia being able to benefit from these people's skills, the Australian Government continues to invest significant resources in bridging courses for these migrants.
Stewart Foster
Director
Public Affairs
DIMIA