A crisis of exploitation: Measures to protect Australia's migrant workforce

With up to one in six recent migrants being paid less than the statutory minimum wage, the Federal Government has responded to what it calls "a crisis of exploitation" by introducing a number of legislative reform to better protect visa holders working in Australia. Key changes include harsher penalties and potential jail time for employers who try to take advantage of their migrant workers.

Background

The measures announced by the Federal Government follow the recommendations contained in the 2019 Report of the Migrant Workers' Taskforce headed by Australian Economist, Professor Allan Fels. The report followed revelations of significant wage underpayments and poor working conditions in certain industry sectors, with particular focus on temporary migrants. Although 7-Eleven was at the forefront of media attention following the discovery of systemic underpayments in their franchises, the report revealed that the problem is widespread.