As local businesses continue to grapple with a lack of skilled workers, a pilot programme being run by the Federal Government may play an important role in addressing the issue.
In South Australia, skilled staff shortages remain one of the top five issues affecting businesses across multiple industries according to research conducted by the South Australian Business Chamber. Chamber CEO Andrew Kay said, “We know that businesses are finding it difficult to fill skilled vacancies with local staff, especially in regional areas.”
“In our September 2024 Survey of Business Expectations, over half of the respondents reported experiencing labour shortages, with 30% of those reporting a lack of high skilled workers,” said Mr. Kay.
The Skilled Refugee Labour Agreement Pilot being run by the Department of Home Affairs is an innovative response to the ongoing labour challenges faced by business. The programme includes significant concessions to standard visa eligibility criteria for applicants, allowing businesses to target workers who best fit their needs and get them into productive roles in an expedited timeframe.
With a talent pool of over 123,000 in 170+ skilled occupations, global not-for-profit Talent Beyond Boundaries co-designed the pilot, which has been championed by Professor Khalil (Charlie) Shahin AO, Executive Chairman of the ATAYF Family Office.
“The deadline for the programme is looming, with applications closing on 30 June 2025,” said Mr. Kay. “The Chamber is calling for this to remain a permanent visa pathway for skilled refugees and employers.”
“We often hear about the challenges of building a workforce to support our future economy, but the reality is our state needs more skilled workers today,” said Mr. Kay. “The programme makes it easier for businesses to sponsor a worker, while providing the opportunity for skilled refugees and their families to rebuild their lives with dignity and purpose.”
“We encourage the Federal Government to continue the programme beyond June 30 and promote it more broadly to the business community.”
For more information and a recording of the webinar go to Filling the skills gap with a Skilled Refugee Labour Agreement I The South Australian Business Chamber
