MEDIA RELEASE
Media Enquiries: National Communications 02 6264 2244
028.09
14 April 2009
Stronger English capability combats exploitation
The language requirement for all subclass 457 trades and chef applicants has
been raised, effective today, in response to concerns about the exploitation of
workers from non-English speaking countries.
A Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) spokesman said
increasing the existing language requirement from International English
Language Testing System (IELTS) 4.5 to IELTS 5 would align the subclass
457 English standard with permanent sponsored visas for trades occupations.
“This change applies to all subclass 457 applications lodged from today based
on trades level and chef qualifications,” the spokesman said.
“The requirement to ensure at least a ‘modest’ level of English – as defined
under IELTS standards – is the first to be implemented after the Minister for
Immigration and Citizenship announced a number of changes to the program.”
The revised English requirements apply to current 457 visa holders only
where a subsequent application is made for a 457 visa seeking a visa stay
period extending beyond the period of their current visa.
Other changes announced on April 1, such as the indexation of the subclass
457 visa minimum salary level by 4.1 per cent from July 1 and the progressive
implementation of skills assessment from that date are all intended to ensure
the subclass 457 visa program continues to provide industry with needed
skills while not undermining local training and employment opportunities.
The transition to market-based pay announced from mid-September 2009 and
the provision for a greater requirement on employers to demonstrate a strong
record of, or demonstrated commitment to, employing local labour and non-
discriminatory employment practices are intended to have the same effect.
An English language requirement for subclass 457 visa applicants has been in
effect since 1 July 2007.
For more information, visit the News section of the DIAC website,
NEWS 
