QLD:Push for new three year working visa

AAP General News (Australia)
08-19-2011
QLD:Push for new three year working visa

BRISBANE, Aug 19 AAP - The states and territories want a new three-year working visa
in areas of skill shortage for international graduates.

Queensland Premier Anna Bligh said she put the issue on the agenda at Friday's Council
of Australian Governments meeting in Canberra and was successful in getting the support
from the states and territories.

She said the move would help stop the recent decline in international student numbers
and would also prepare the nation for the next mining boom.

"Australia is on the cusp of a resources boom and we are facing a looming skills crisis,"

Ms Bligh said in a statement.

"We shouldn't be discouraging young, enthusiastic workers who are keen to fill these roles."

The resources sector alone is expected to generate 38,000 jobs in the next few years.

AAP ka/de

KEYWORD: COAG STUDENT

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