27 February 2008

Rural skills shortage may result in Australia immigration increase

There is a drastic shortage of electricians, plumbers, builders and fridge mechanics in rural West Australia, it has been reported. The West Australian says that people in these trades are travelling hundreds of kilometres in order to meet demands for their professions. This may open the door for people in the trades which are considering Australia immigration.

A study is currently being carried out by a researcher from the University of Western Australia to look into the ageing rural workforce. Amanda Davies, of the Institute of Regional Development, said: "These areas struggle to attract younger people and haven't seen an influx of new people for 30 years." She added that many semi-retired workers in rural Australia can afford to retire but are not because of the demand for their skills. People seriously looking at Australian immigration will need to take a skilled online visa assessment. In related news, a recent report has revealed that the confidence of businesses in Australia is being damaged by the lack of workers in the country.

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