The Australian government increased the 457 visa duration issued under the 'horse breeder' occupation to the medium and long-term list following lobbying by the Thoroughbred Breeders Australia (TBA). Now, those with 457 visas may work in Australia up to four years, with permanent residency an option, instead of being forced to leave the country after only two years under the current arrangements.
“Access to skilled staff is one of the biggest issues in the Australian Thoroughbred breeding industry and that is why TBA has been closely engaged with the government and Members of Parliament to bring about this key decision,” TBA CEO Tom Reilly said in a statement. “The number of staff recruited from overseas to fill these visa positions has been relatively small, but the value of these skilled and experienced staff is enormous. They fill key roles such as stallion managers, yearling managers and foal managers and are responsible for horses worth many millions of dollars. In addition, these internationally experienced visa holders undertake important mentoring roles of local staff.”
Added Reilly, “TBA would like to thank Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton, Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce, Agriculture Minister David Littleproud, their advisers and other Members of Parliament who greatly assisted our industry on this issue. Our strong case was made in a detailed submission to the Federal Government late last year explaining how our industry could be negatively affected without access to long-term visa arrangements.”
Skills Impact Australia signed off on a new Certificate III in horse breeding following TBA input, which enable TAFEs to offer apprenticeship level programmes in breeding and cater to the local staff, as well.
“It is vital industry and training institutions now work closely together to ensure the new Certificiate III course is a success with strong enrollments,” said Reilly.
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