The Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) will run information sessions about recent reforms to the subclass 457 visa on October 7 and 8 in Cairns.

“We encourage employers, visa holders and other stakeholders in the Cairns area to attend a seminar to gain an understanding of the changes, as well as ask questions about the reforms,” a DIAC spokesman said.

New laws to protect the rights of overseas workers and ensure Australian wages and conditions are not undermined came into effect on September 14.

All new workers on subclass 457 visas must now be paid at market rates. Employers have until 1 January 2010 to start paying market rates to existing subclass 457 visa holders if they are not already.

The Australian Tax Office is now able to disclose information to DIAC, so the department can make sure workers are being paid at the correct salary levels.

Employers who breach their sponsorship obligations may now be liable for fines of up to $33 000.