Strengthening Protections for Temporary Visa Holders
The federal government has taken an important step in addressing a major weakness in Australia’s migration system by announcing new measures to crack down on the exploitation of low-paid temporary migrant workers. CORE Community Services has welcomed this decision, acknowledging its potential to safeguard vulnerable workers from mistreatment.
Recognising the Vulnerability of Migrant Workers
Juana Reinoso, CEO of CORE Community Services, highlighted the challenges faced by temporary visa holders, many of whom are unaware of their employment rights or are afraid to speak out due to fear of losing their job or visa.
The Reality of Exploitation
“It is unacceptable that so many migrant workers are being paid below minimum wage,” Ms. Reinoso said. She emphasised that many migrants arrive in Australia under difficult circumstances and may not have access to the information or support needed to challenge unfair treatment.
Key Measures Proposed by the Federal Government
The government’s proposed actions aim to protect temporary visa holders and hold exploitative employers accountable. These measures include:
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Making it a criminal offense to coerce someone into breaching their visa conditions
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Introducing prohibition notices to prevent employers who exploit migrants from hiring new temporary visa workers
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Increasing penalties and expanding compliance tools to deter exploitation
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Repealing section 235 of the Migration Act, which currently discourages workers from reporting exploitation
Addressing Widespread Underpayment
It is estimated that one in six migrant workers in Australia is paid below the minimum wage. These reforms aim to address systemic issues by discouraging abusive practices and empowering workers to report mistreatment without fear.
CORE Community Services’ Ongoing Support in South West Sydney
CORE Community Services is one of the largest settlement service providers in the Fairfield Local Government Area, home to the largest number of new arrivals in Australia. The organisation continues to see unprecedented demand for assistance due to rising cost-of-living pressures.
Additional Challenges for Newly Arrived Communities
Ms. Reinoso noted that new arrivals already face significant difficulties in securing housing, healthcare, childcare, and education. These challenges are made even more severe when temporary migrant workers experience exploitation, underpayment, or intimidation in the workplace.