Jobs in Australia for Americans

Posted on April 2, 2012 by Jobs Abroad

We’ve written before about the high salaries available in Australia’s booming gas and mining sectors, here and here, for example.

Now Australia is altering the way its visa rules work to make it easier for skilled American workers looking for work to move down under. Applications under the new scheme are expected to open in the middle of this month.

Chris Evans, Australia’s Federal Minister for Education, Skills, Science and Research, said: “This is a great opportunity to address skill shortages in Australia by filling shortfalls in particular areas with qualified candidates from the United States.”

Workers from licensed skill areas like plumbers and electricians will be given immediate provisional Australian licenses on arrival in Australia.

Mr Evans noted that demand for skilled construction workers in Australia was likely to hit a maximum in a 3 – 5 year timeframe.

The Australian Government will also run its overseas skilled recruitment program Skills Australia Needs for the first time in America, starting next month. Houston, Texas will be the first venue on May 19 and 20.

75 per cent of Australia construction companies who were surveyed recently said they anticipated there would be significant recruitment difficulties in the year ahead.

Chris Bowen, Australia’s Minister for Immigration and Citizenship said:

“This initiative will provide information on skilled visa options to Americans with suitable qualifications, skills and experience and help them to work in Australia under a temporary employer-sponsored visa.

“They will be able to meet with Australian employers and state and territory governments to discuss possible sponsorship and employment opportunities in Australia.”

Meanwhile, Immigration officials continue to deter illegal immigrants using roadside checks. Eight illegal workers were arrested in Wilbinga on March 29 in the most recent operation.

Australia’s law has provisions that people employing illegal workers face fines of up to $13,200 and two years’ jail. Companies can be fined up to $66,000 per illegal worker employed.

Be Sociable, Share!

•