Employer responsibilities and obligations
Migration law can be confusing for many employers. Once they enter into a sponsorship arrangement or hire overseas workers, they are subject to the Migration Act 1958.
Any breach of the law, whether intentional or unintentional, could lead to the worker being removed from Australia or the employer having sanctions imposed upon them.
Employers need to be aware that hiring people who do not have work rights in Australia or failing to meet sponsorship obligations could compromise their ability to sponsor other workers.
Employer responsibilities are clearly set out in Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) forms, on the DIAC website and in DIAC information material.
See the DIAC website at: http://www.immi.gov.au/managing-australias-borders/compliance/employer-obligations/
Further assistance is provided by departmental officers including the DIAC industry outreach officer (IOO) available through the Chamber of Minerals and Energy (CME).
The IOO can meet with employers and staff at their premises, at DIAC or at CME to discuss the responsibilities associated with sponsorship of overseas workers and to ensure compliance with the law.
This service is free for CME member companies