Opposition Calls for More Changes to Migration Bill to Build a Better, Not Bigger Australia

August 14, 2024 TruthUSA

Tehan expressed concerns about the current process for determining which occupations are included on the skilled occupation list, advocating for a more systematic approach.

During the second day of Parliament, the government suggested reopening the discussion on amending the Migration Act to revise income thresholds for skilled migrants and make other alterations.

Shadow Minister for Immigration Dan Tehan, however, urged the House of Representatives to await the findings of a Senate inquiry into the proposed amendments.

Tehan emphasized that the Albanese Labor government should concentrate on creating a “better” rather than “bigger” Australia and highlighted specific changes that the Liberal-Nationals would like to see incorporated.

Enhancing Clarity on Desired Skilled Migrants for Australia

Tehan voiced concerns about the lack of a structured process in determining which occupations make it onto the skilled occupation list.

He underscored the importance of the list reflecting areas with a high demand for skilled labor, such as construction, and being adaptable to cater to the evolving needs of various regions, especially those beyond the major cities.

“For instance, when there is a substantial demand for house construction, one would expect all relevant occupations in that field to be included in the occupation list. However, so far, we have not seen any systematic process on how the skilled occupation list is compiled,” he stated in Parliament on Aug. 13.

Elevating Income Threshold Could Burden Employers

Tehan also criticized the government’s decision to raise the temporary skilled migration income threshold from $53,900 to $70,000, citing concerns raised by employers, particularly in regional Australia.

He cautioned that this increase might lead to foreign workers receiving higher pay than Australian workers, potentially resulting in workplace dissatisfaction.

“Employer groups, as part of the Senate inquiry process, have brought up this issue.”

The Law Council of Australia also expressed concerns about this provision in its submissions to the Senate, proposing that income thresholds should be adjustable through regulation rather than being set in stone in legislation.

Furthermore, Tehan argued that immigration policies should prevent dangerous criminals from being released into the community without appropriate visa conditions, citing recent court cases that resulted in dangerous criminals being released into Australian society.

Discussion on the bill was postponed until a later date.

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