03 December 2007

Growth in manufacturing fuels demand for Australian immigration

Australian manufacturing is experiencing healthy growth but skill shortages requiring Australian immigration are seen as a significant factor affecting business, according to the latest research.

The Australian Industry Group - PricewaterhouseCoopers Australian Performance of Manufacturing Index (Australian PMI) rose by 0.5 points in November, to 53.8. This is the 18th consecutive month of expansion in Australia's manufacturing activity.

Growth included a strong export component, which increased to 56.7 from 48.3 the previous month. New orders were also up 3.2 points to 56.7.

The survey confirmed that Australia's skills shortages are seen as a negative factor for business.

"This makes the efforts to lift productivity by both the industry and the new government critical to a sustainable manufacturing sector in the long-term," said Australian Industry Group chief executive Heather Ridout.

Australia needs more skilled workers in the manufacturing sector: Anyone applying for an Australia skilled visa should begin by completing the Australian Visa Bureau's online Australian visa application to see if they meet the Australian visa requirements.