Australian industry calls for skilled migration reform

Australian industry and business groups are advocating for reforms to the skilled migration system to combat workforce shortages in sectors such as manufacturing, infrastructure, health, and agriculture.

Initially, the Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) proposed four specific recommendations to the Joint Standing Committee on Migration. These included maintaining current permanent skilled migration intake levels, streamlining credential recognition, ensuring predictable visa processing, and improving public communication regarding migration’s role. Industry leaders in regions like Geelong noted that domestic training alone is insufficient to bridge existing skills gaps.

Following these calls, business leaders and advocacy groups expanded their warnings, arguing that political hostility toward migration and arbitrary net migration targets could threaten national economic growth. The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry contested the notion that Australia has a ‘migration problem,’ instead pointing to housing and skills shortages. Additionally, groups such as the National Farmers’ Federation and the Tourism and Transport Forum urged the government to restore access to working holiday maker programs. A report from the Settlement Council of Australia further emphasized that early access to settlement services for humanitarian migrants significantly improves employment and wage outcomes.