The Federal Government has indicated its preference over reskilling Australian workers over sourcing skilled immigrants.

 

Prime Minister Julia Gillard announced that fly-in/fly-out programs may have to be streamlined to assist retrenched workers from steelworks find new positions in the mining and resources sector.

 

Ms Gillard announced the government’s preference for retraining of unemployment before resorting to employment of skilled migrants. 

 

The Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) has backed the Prime Minister’s announcement, with ACTU President Ged Kearney saying that many unemployed, experienced workers are available.

 

“Genuine productivity growth will occur through investment in skills, education and training, spending on infrastructure, and investment in technology and innovation,” Ms Kearney said.