The Labour Agreement Stream of the Skills in Demand (SID) visa (Subclass 482) provides a flexible solution for Australian employers facing unique or persistent labour shortages that cannot be addressed through standard visa programs (Core Skills or Specialist Skills streams). This stream is based on a formal agreement between the Australian Government and an employer, outlining specific terms and conditions for sponsoring overseas workers.
Key Features and Requirements for the Labour Agreement Stream:
- Approved Labour Agreement: The employer must have an active Labour Agreement in place with the Australian Government that covers the nominated occupation and conditions.
- Employer Sponsorship: You must be nominated by an approved employer operating under a specific Labour Agreement.
- Occupation Specific: Your nominated occupation must be one specified within the terms of the Labour Agreement.
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Skills, Experience & English: You must meet the specific age, skills, experience, and English language requirements as outlined in that particular Labour Agreement. These can vary significantly from standard visa requirements.
- Generally, at least 12 months of full-time equivalent work experience in the nominated or closely related field within the last 5 years is still a common requirement, but concessions may exist.
- Skills assessments may or may not be required, as per the agreement.
- Market Salary Rate: The salary offered must meet the minimum as specified in the Labour Agreement, or the Australian market salary rate, whichever is higher. Labour Agreements can sometimes specify a lower TSMIT for particular roles if justified.
- Labour Market Testing (LMT): The Labour Agreement itself will specify the LMT requirements. In many cases, it may still be required to demonstrate that no suitable Australian workers are available.
- Health and Character: All applicants must meet Australia's health and character requirements.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: Most Labour Agreements provide a clear pathway to permanent residency via the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) visa. The time required to transition to PR (e.g., 2 years) and any age or other concessions for PR will be specified within the agreement itself.
- Family Inclusion: You can include your spouse/partner and dependent children in your visa application, with their rights (work/study) typically mirroring yours as outlined in the agreement.
Benefits of the Labour Agreement Stream:
- Flexibility: Provides solutions for unique recruitment challenges not covered by standard visa lists.
- Concessions: Allows for negotiated concessions on age, English language, experience, and occupation requirements.
- Defined Pathways: Clear pathways to permanent residency are often built into the agreement.
- Addresses Specific Needs: Directly targets skill shortages in specific industries or regional areas.