Fast food businesses will no longer be able to bring in foreign workers on 457 visa.
The Minister for Immigration and Border Protection Peter Dutton announced on Thursday that the government has ended the Fast Food Industry Labour Agreement which saw hundreds of foreign workers take jobs at fast food outlets across Australia.
McDonalds, Hungry Jack’s and KFC will be barred from sponsoring foreign workers on 457 visas, which are intended to fill temporary skill shortages, reports.
"Australian workers, particularly young Australians, must be given priority," Mr Dutton said.
The government ‘is committed to ensuring that career pathways are available for young Australians,’ he said.
"The Coalition Government is committed to implementing reforms that strengthen Australia's skilled migration programme to ensure overseas workers supplement rather than provide a substitute for Australian workers.”
Those currently working in fast food chains on 457 visa will be forced to leave Australia once their agreements run out unless the restaurant is able to present an individual case as to why they should remain in the country.
Businesses will be allowed to request for foreign workers in exceptional circumstances, the states.
"Businesses can still make requests under normal labour agreement arrangements to ensure that exceptional circumstances can be considered.
"Genuine business needs for overseas workers which contribute to economic growth will still be considered."
The debate on 457 visa which allows employers to bring in skilled workers from abroad has gained momentum recently with the Australian government undertaking a review of the list of occupations available for the application of 457 visa.
