Prominent members of the Australian startup community say a potential tightening of arrangements for 457 visas would have serious ramifications for the country’s ability to keep up with the world.
Highly skilled talent from overseas plays a crucial role in supporting and strengthening Australia’s local labour force, according to Atlassian co-founder Mike Cannon-Brookes, while Shark Tank investor and tech entrepreneur Steve Baxter says any potential reduction in the supply of skilled workers would be an “obvious crazy move”.
Cannon-Brookes’s comments come as federal innovation minister Arthur Sinodinos has outlined plans to consult with Atlassian executives and other leaders in the sector to discuss the fate of the 457 visa, which enables employers to bring skilled workers in from overseas on temporary assignments when talent can’t be found locally.
You've reached your article limit. Create a free account, or login to continue. Get our free newsletters in your inbox and extended article access by submitting your email.
Dinushi Dias is a freelance journalist and a former StartupSmart reporter and multimedia content producer. She is the co-founder of Melbourne-based production house Dinushi & Power.
Comments