An outreach officer from the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) will visit the Pilbara between May 25 and 29 to increase awareness of the recent changes to temporary business entry (subclass 457) and skilled migration programs.

In April, the Australian Government announced changes to the 457 program including an increased level of English language proficiency and changes to the minimum salary level.

This followed the announcement in December of a revision to the migration program for the second half of 2008-09 so that skilled migrants who have a confirmed job, or have skills in critical need, would be given priority for a permanent visa to come to Australia.

To help employers and overseas workers in Karratha and Port Hedland understand the changes, the outreach officer will run information seminars and be available for individual appointments in both towns for employers, stakeholders, government agencies and 457 visa holders about employer-sponsored visa options for skilled workers.

“DIAC places great importance on providing services to regional areas and regular outreach visits are a large part of that,” a DIAC spokesman said.