Skilled Migration and Growing Unemployment

Welcome to my Australia 101 migration blog - and thank you Natasha and Nick, for hosting me!

My first post is about something that affects everyone interested in migrating to Australia under the skilled migration program – the Australian Government’s take on the impact of migrants on Australia’s workforce and growing unemployment rate.

Well, the news is all good!

Despite rumours and media spin-doctoring to the contrary, the Government has no current intention of closing Australia’s gates to skilled migrants. In fact, in December 2008, the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship stated that the existing 133 500 planning target would remain, with the actual number of visas granted to be kept under review for the remainder of 2008-09. Here’s a link to his statement: Ministerial Statement by Senator Chris Evans. (PDF download)

Despite the global economic downturn, Australia is still a great place to live and work, with employment available across all trades and most professions and with unlimited opportunities for qualifying investors and business people to purchase an existing Australian business or set up their own.

So don’t believe the rumours of doom and gloom – Australia is fighting back in this recessionary climate – and is still the land of opportunity for skilled migrants, business owners and investors!

Sincerely

Susan