State of play on 457 visas in Aussie trucking

There has been a debate raging for some time as to whether businesses should be able to sponsor overseas workers on subclass 457 (Temporary Work (Skilled)) visas to operate heavy vehicles. This piece will explain the process for applying for a subclass 457 visa, and will examine the positions adopted by the primary agitators of the debate, namely: the Transport Workers Union (TWU) and the Australian Trucking Association (ATA).

How the Subclass 457 Visa Operates

The first step for any business that wishes to sponsor an overseas worker is to apply to the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) to be approved as a Standard Business Sponsor (SBS). To be approved, the business must demonstrate that it is lawfully operating a business in Australia and that there is no relevant adverse information known about the business or its senior managers (including prior non-compliance with Australia's immigration law). Importantly, approved SBS' agree to be subject