Survey on Moira labour shortages

Published on 04 October 2019

Moira Shire Council is exploring a range of programs to address the labour skill shortages in our region.

As part of this exploration, we have constructed a survey which also takes into account specific data and needs of our migrant workers.

Mayor Libro Mustica said council was keen to survey all businesses in the region to determine labour market shortages. "The aim of the survey is to obtain information as to what migrant and other labour hire programs are currently being utilised by businesses and why they may or may not be fulfilling their labour requirements," Cr Mustica said. "This survey will form the basis, potentially, for a Designated Area Migrant Agreement should the need be demonstrated."

Cr Mustica said this survey was being undertaken in collaboration with Greater Shepparton City Council and Campaspe Shire. "A Designated Area Migrant Agreement sees a certain number of migrants able to work full time in our combined region for a certain period with the ability to apply for permanent residency after four years, at the earliest," he said. "This enables them to establish themselves within our regions and become part of our community providing employees for roles previously unable to be filled long term by Australian citizens.

"Moira Shire Council has a long history of welcoming migrants from across the world which adds to the richness of our culture." The survey provides information on key aspects of this potential agreement between the three local government regions and the Federal Government such as minimum pay rates, skills requirements, English Language Testing and concessions for migrants.

The survey is open until 9 November 2019, go to our website for more information or to have your say.