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In July 2023 the WA State Government launched a targeted program to support WA employers who were interested in attracting migrants with construction skills to Australia.
The WA Government took this step as a result of the Federal Government slashing State Nominated Migration Visas from 8140 to 2350 in the middle of a housing and a skills crisis.
HIA WA Executive Director Michael McGowan said HIA supports the program as one of several initiatives to help build more homes.
"This is a long-term investment to build more homes in WA,” he said.
“Skilled migration has not been something that WA building companies have traditionally engaged in, but for those that have, the feedback has been extremely positive.
"Money is only one part of the migration solution, you have to find a suitable candidate and navigate a complex Federal Migration system before that person can travel and start work in Australia.
"What we have seen is WA employers dipping their toes in the water to see how it works. It has worked, and we now expect most of the 1100 spots to be taken up and workers arriving in Australia over the next 12 months," said Mr McGowan.
"Our industry has been built on a foundation of migrants moving to Australia looking for a new life and this program continues the tradition."
"Our housing challenges aren't going away anytime soon, so investing in a steady flow of skilled migrants while also funding 450 apprentices into the residential building industry is a responsible long-term approach," he said.
"Of course we would like these people here sooner, but for those navigating it for the first time there are some unknowns that need to be worked through.
"The Federal Government also need to speed up their processes and increase transparency with our builders and contractors who have people around the world waiting to come to WA.
“HIA held a construction visa information session at the beginning of May that was attended by more than 60 employers, and as success stories continue to filter through the industry the interest levels continue to increase,” concluded Mr McGowan.
The Housing Industry Association (HIA) is urging the government to hit pause on the proposed Free TAFE Bill 2024. While the initiative promises to address critical skills shortages, HIA believes the plan needs a comprehensive review before it’s locked into law.
HIA provided a response to the Senate Education and Employment Committees on the inquiry into the Free TAFE Bill 2024.
The Housing Industry Association (HIA) welcomes the Coalition’s announcement allowing first home buyers to access up to $50,000 of their superannuation to purchase a home. This initiative represents a meaningful step towards addressing the significant barriers to home ownership faced by young Australians,” stated HIA Managing Director, Jocelyn Martin.
On behalf of all of us at HIA we would like to wish you a very happy 2025! As everyone heads back to work for the new year, we are sharing some exclusive member updates to get you ready for what lies ahead.