Login
iscover
Recent proposals to make changes to the skilled working visa will not address the shortage of skilled tradespeople available to build new dwellings, which is becoming increasingly problematic, according to the HIA.
HIA managing director Graham Wolfe said that a new solution is required.
“The focus of any reforms should be on creating a new visa category for skilled worker that is not bound to an employer but can operate as a trade contractor independent of a single employer.
“The housing industry is more vulnerable to skill shortages than many other industry sectors due to an ageing labour force, the physical nature of work, the ongoing demand for new housing and the often cyclical nature of activity.”
Mr Wolfe said the housing industry is vital to the wellbeing of the Australian society.
“Australia will need to build over 2.3 million houses by 2030 to keep up with demand. In the last year alone, there was $108 billion worth of residential construction carried out in Australia.
“Skilled worker visas have for many years allowed people trained and experienced in other countries to enter Australia and work for an approved business that sponsors the worker. This approach fails to recognise that trade contractors have always operated their own business.”
He said the current models are not adequate.
“[They] simply don’t suit the housing industry’s long-accepted approach to doing business which relies heavily on the efficient and affordable model of independent contracting.
“HIA’s Federal Election Imperatives call on all parties to remove the caps and limits that currently exist on skilled and business migration categories and to introduce a new skilled migration category for independent contractors in the residential building industry.
“A well thought-out migration policy coupled with a strong sector to train future tradespeople in Australia will go a long way to helping supply the homes we need over the next decade.”
Newsletter
