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This article was published on Thursday, 31 October, 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 The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate.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.

Council continues to seek feedback on labour shortages and migrant programs as a solution

The survey is a joint venture between Greater Shepparton City Council, Moira Shire and Campaspe Shire. The Councils have received a number of responses to date, and are still interested in hearing from all businesses in the municipal regions to determine labour market shortages in the combined area.

The aim of the DAMA Survey is to obtain information as to what (if any) migrant programs are currently being utilised by businesses and why they may or may not be fulfilling their labour requirements.

Mayor Cr Abdullah said this survey would form the basis for the potential for a Designated Area Migrant Agreement in our combined regions.

“It is extremely important that businesses in our region complete this survey, and we want to hear from as many as possible,” Cr Abdullah said.

“Greater Shepparton has a long history of welcoming migrants from across the world which adds to the richness of our culture. A Designated Area Migrant Agreement sees a certain number of migrants able to work fulltime 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 with long term vacancies.

“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.”

The survey, which can be completed by businesses in the three municipalities, is available until 9 November 2019.

It can be found on Council’s website.