More skilled workers for oil and gas

The Federal Government is implementing recommendations made by an External Reference Group (ERG) established to improve Australia’s temporary skilled migration program.

The Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, said the group of industry experts had made 16 recommendations in its final report.

“We have already begun work to implement 14 of the 16 recommendations designed to make the temporary skilled migration (457 visa) program scheme more effective and responsive to industry needs,” Senator Evans said.

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The report covers six broad areas: long term planning; streamlining application and approval processes; eliminating duplication and unnecessary administration; remaining competitive; and branding.

The proposed reforms are an important step in helping the nation to harness the potential of its oil and gas industry, the Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association (APPEA) has said.

APPEA Chief Executive Belinda Robinson said “Skills shortages are one of the key impediments to realising the enormous growth potential of Australia’s oil and gas production industry.”

Ms Robinson said that the shortage of skilled labour is becoming a real constraint to growth and is particularly challenging for companies that plan to develop natural gas reserves for export where they will reduce global greenhouse gas emissions.