Published Tuesday, 06 February, 2007 at 11:09 AM

Minister for State Development, Employment and Industrial Relations
The Honourable John Mickel

NEW IR DEAL TO PROTECT QUEENSLAND’S OVERSEAS WORKERS

Skilled overseas workers in the meat industry will be paid a fair wage comparable with the industry standard following an agreement between government, the union and employers.

Employment and Industrial Relations Minister John Mickel said the Meat Industry Labour Agreement would also give overseas workers employed in Queensland on 457 visa arrangements a set number of hours for a standard working week.

Mr Mickel said the agreement will be signed by the Queensland Government, the Commonwealth Government and any meat processing companies who want to participate and can demonstrate they will meet the requirements. The Australasian Meat Industry Employees’ Union (AMIEU) was also involved in the negotiations.

The Department of Employment and Industrial Relations will be responsible for enforcing the agreement at workplaces.

“The temporary skilled migration arrangements of the Commonwealth Government have been and are a source of concern for the Queensland Government,” he said.

“There has been evidence of misuse of the temporary skilled visa arrangements in Queensland and across Australia. This agreement will help overcome any abuses of the system.

“It was a condition of Queensland’s participation that a number of key concerns be met, including greater transparency and fair terms and conditions for skilled overseas workers.

“The Queensland Government also wanted to ensure that Australian workers receive adequate training to meet critical skills shortages and are not displaced by migrant workers.

“The Government supports the appropriate use of sub-class 457 visa workers where it is demonstrated as necessary and where overseas workers are not exploited and local workers are not disadvantaged.

“The labour agreement puts Queensland’s businesses and workers first, creates a level playing field with equal wages rates for all workers and employers, and avoids the risks and controversies that have besieged the 457 visa scheme.”

Media contact: Chris Brown 3224 7349 or Elouise Campion 3224 6784.