Staffing Your Business Has Rarely Been Harder

Australian employers, we completely understand that finding the right talent for your business can often feel like looking for a needle in a haystack. When homegrown talent isn't hitting the mark, it can be frustrating, but you're not alone in this. That's where the idea of sponsoring overseas workers comes into play. It might just be the lifeline your business needs, bringing in fresh perspectives and the expertise you need to keep things humming along nicely. There are some boxes to tick before you can get started with sponsorship, but don't worry, we've got your back!

Bringing Your Team Up to Speed – Fast

When you need to ramp up your staffing levels and do it fast, consider sponsorng overseas workers on temporary work visas. It's a sure-fire way to lift your staffing levels. 

Even if this sounds like a fit though, don't overlook those on working holiday or student visas – they could also be eager to join your team and help with staffing.

At AHWC Immigration Law, LORG’s sister company, our team has a strong track record in lodging Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS) visas (Subclass 482) and Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visas. We have our fingers on the pulse in industries like hospitality, construction, mining and engineering, automotive, and healthcare.

The ABCs of Employer Sponsorship

Through employer sponsorship, you can fill those empty places with the best talents out there, irrespective of their nationality. However, we understand it can be a bit daunting. After all, you can only sponsor workers in occupations listed on certain occupation lists, unless you have an approved Labour Agreement with the Department of Home Affairs (more on this in a later blog). 

If it sounds quite daunting, we can assure you it’s not with the right help. And once the Department of Home Affairs gives you a nod as a Standard Business Sponsor (SBS), you'll be ready to sponsor the staff that you can’t find in Australia.

A Closer Look at The Visa Options on Offer for Approved Sponsors

With your newly minted SBS, you'll be ready to sponsor overseas workers for either Subclass 482 (Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS)) visas or Subclass 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional) visas. But remember, you'll first need to show that you've tried to find suitable local talent.

If you have an applicant whose occupation is on the Medium to Long Term Skilled Occupation List, that's great news! These applicants (like chefs, engineers, or tradies) can be sponsored for up to 4 years, with a pathway to permanent residence after 3 years. For roles on the Short Term Skilled Occupation List, you can sponsor them for two 2-year visas, but keep in mind, this route doesn't lead to permanent residency, at the moment, although this is likley to cahnge at the end of 2023.

If you're based in a regional area, the Subclass 494 SESR visa is a great option, offering a pathway to permanent residency after three years. And it comes with a super long occupation list of over 600 roles.

And for those very specific roles not listed anywhere, a Labour Agreement could be just the ticket.

Other Avenues to Explore

Perhaps you're keen on training staff to reach Australian standards? The Subclass 407 Training Visa could be perfect. It opens the door for the visa holder to later apply for a Subclass 482 TSS or a Subclass 494 SESR visa.

The Subclass 400 Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) Visa is a great shortcut if you're needing specialist workers on a temporary basis. There is no need to be an SBS to employ workers holding Subclass 400 visas.

Going Above and Beyond - Transition to Permanent Residence

If you're looking to help your overseas workers feel more at home by becoming permanent residents, they can be nominated for a permanent visa after a certain period (usually 3 years). 

This can be through the Employer Nominated Subclass 186 visa or, after 3 years for a Subclass 494 SESR visa holder, via the Subclass 191 Skilled Regional visa.

The Benefits of Sponsorship for You and Your Staff

Sponsorship is a fantastic opportunity, not just for your business, but for the skilled individuals you bring on board as well. Together, you can build a more diverse and vibrant work environment, where everyone grows and succeeds. It's a win-win! 

We're here to guide you every step of the way, so reach out and let's get this journey started!

AHWC & Lorg Talent - We've got your staffing solutions covered!

Becoming an Approved Sponsor and Employing overseas employees can be very fiddly and complex - and you'll need a plan before starting because it does require some special considerations like finding potential candidates (who might not be looking) as well getting them Australian visas.

With our extensive overseas and Australian networks, our teams at AHWC Immigration Law and Lorg Talent have your staffing solutions covered, so just contact us today!

www.ahwc.com.au

www.lorgtalent.com