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This article was published on Monday, 30 September, 2019. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

Survey on labour shortages and migrant programs as a solution

The councils are keen to survey all businesses in the municipal regions to determine labour market shortages in the combined area. The aim of the survey is to obtain information as to what migrant programs are currently being utilised by businesses and why they may or may not be fulfilling their labour requirements.

Greater Shepparton City Council Chief Executive Officer, Peter Harriott said this survey would form the basis for the potential for a Designated Area Migrant Agreement in our combined regions, should the need be demonstrated.

A Designated Area Migrant Agreement sees a certain number of migrants able to work full time in our region for a certain period with the ability to apply for permanent residency after four years, at the earliest.

“This enables them to establish themselves within our regions and become part of our community providing employees for roles previously unable to be filled long term by Australian Citizens,” Mr Harriott said.

“Greater Shepparton has a long history of welcoming migrants from across the world which adds to the richness of our culture.”

The survey provides information on key aspects of this potential agreement between our regions and the Federal Government such as minimum pay rates, skills requirements, English Language Testing and concessions for migrants.

“This information will form the basis of a business case to the Federal Government, should the data indicate a Designated Area Migrant Agreement may suit the regions,” Mr Harriott said.

Migrant programs form a small component of regional skills and employment and this program is about filling long term vacancies that have not been able to be filled by the usual means.

Over the years similar migrant programs have proven to be beneficial to strengthening the local economy, and ensuring continued growth of business and industry in our regions.

The survey is available from now until 9 November 2019. It can be found on Greater Shepparton City Council’s website.

The survey can be completed by businesses within the three municipalities.

Click here for the survey.