Work environment, immigration law in Australia

Australia is not a labor-importing country. OFWs in the country are mostly domestic helpers employed by diplomats and those admitted under the employment nomination scheme. Filipino immigrants usually find themselves in odd jobs during their first few months or years. Those educated in the Philippines are required to take bridging courses in universities to enable them to practice their profession. There are migrant resource centers around Australia that provide services to migrants including legal assistance. There are also non-governmental organizations that look after the welfare of workers. The skilled migration program of the Australian government is highly selective of a few fields that cannot be filled up by local workers. Lately, there has been an expressed need for nurses. The government gives priority to workers who are willing to live and work in designated “rural" areas for a minimum of 2 years. Professional development visa is given to professionals who lack training and qualifications but are accepted based on need of skills. This type of visa would allow them to work while undergoing training. The federal government recently passed an amendment to the Immigration Act, allowing dual citizenship. Source: Be a Smarter Pinoy Abroad, Smart Pinoy Publishing, Philippines, 2006