Overseas workers have become an essential part of the Australian hospitality workforce, just as they are all over the world. But that doesn’t stop immigration from being a political football, which means unpredictable changes in government policy that makes workforce planning difficult. In April 2017, changes were announced on who can work in Australia, and their rights to become a permanent resident.

To help us navigate these changes, Ken Burgin talked with Justin Browne of Edupi Hospitality Immigration Specialists. Justin has many years of experience in hospitality, and now with immigration. We discussed the type of workers who want to work in Australia, the skills they have and how to help them settle into a new culture. We also discussed the costs and paperwork involved, when extra training is needed, and options for people who want to work in a rural area.