Description
This report investigates the role that qualifications play in the labour mobility of foreign workers who come to Australia for permanent or temporary migration. Obviously, a good match between overseas non-school qualifications and jobs obtained in Australia on arrival results in better labour market outcomes for migrant workers, but other factors are important for employers. These include a worker’s experience, proficiency in English, and personal skills. Employers also generally prefer Australian workers or foreign workers already living in Australia with qualifications from a recognised and familiar provider.
Summary
About the research
Australia has had a long history of using migrants to fill skill gaps and labour shortages, and continues to target skilled foreign workers for permanent and temporary migration. The purpose of this report is to investigate the role of qualifications in the labour mobility of these foreign workers, especially as those who do not have employer sponsorship are not guaranteed a job in their area of expertise on arrival. Misko argues that a good match between overseas qualifications and jobs obtained in Australia on arrival signals a clear role for qualifications in facilitating migration as a source of skilled workers for the Australian labour market.
Key messages
- Non-school qualifications play an important role in helping migrant workers into the Australian labour market, especially primary applicants for skilled migration.
- Qualifications do not act alone in securing employment and employment that is suitable (including for regulated occupations). Along with appropriate experience and general English proficiency, employers look for specific skills and knowledge and the personal attributes that signal willingness to work, availability for work and a good cultural fit.
- Employers say they prefer to source skilled labour from suitably qualified Australians or foreign workers already in Australia rather than to conduct overseas recruitment campaigns. The exceptions are international companies moving their own workers around the globe and Australian companies requiring workers with expert knowledge and experience in specific techniques and technologies.
While qualifications are clearly important, they need to be credible. Employers are wary of unfamiliar qualifications and providers. Perhaps this is one area where the government can assist by providing employers with more confidence in the overseas qualifications of migrants.
Tom Karmel
Managing Director, NCVER