Maria Jockel, a Melbourne-based partner at Holding Redlich, told Lawyers Weekly that analysis of the 2012 457 visa report shows the programme is ‘being used to meet Australia’s targeted labour skills shortages’ needs’.

Fraud

However, Prime Minister Julia Gillard recently suggested that fraud is common in the 457 visa programme by employers.
Immigration Minister Brendan O'Connor also claimed that more than 100 businesses have been barred from hiring workers on 457 visas after abusing the system and using 457 visas to discriminate against locals.
Although he added that it would be difficult judge the level of fraud occurring, he also said: ‘The growth in the 457 program is out of step with [genuine] skills’ shortages’.

Reality check

Under proposed changes, visa application would likely take longer and have higher chances of rejection, according to Ms Jockel, who also said that ‘people need a reality check’ if they think the country will be able to ‘sustain its affluence’ without a selected migration program.