November 2, 2022
The Albanese government must reverse its decision to send highly skilled cyber experts to the back of the migrant queue.
Under this Labor Government, Australians are still reeling from two significant cyber crimes that have exposed the personal data of millions of people.
It is extraordinary that as Australia faces a growing threat from cyber criminals and scammers that Labor have removed 27 cyber-related roles from the Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List, making it harder for businesses to bring talented cyber professionals to this country to work.
Shadow Minister for Immigration and Citizenship Dan Tehan said the Albanese Labor Government must reverse its decision and make cyber-skilled migration a priority.
“Once again, under the cover of darkness, Labor have taken action that will seriously impact Australia citizens and businesses and they have not explained the reasons for their decision,” Mr Tehan said.
“Whose interests are served by making it harder for Australian businesses to bring cyber experts to this country to work to protect Australian citizens and their data? Australians need more cyber protection not less.”
“Labor’s decision has made it more dangerous for all Australians who use the internet. We need to make it easier for young, highly skilled cyber security experts to come to Australia to work and make a contribution.
“Immigration Minister Andrew Giles should spend less time fundraising for the Andrews’ Labor Party and more time working with our cyber security industry to ensure local businesses have access to the talented workers who will help keep us safe online.”
Shadow Minister for Cyber Security and Countering Foreign Interference James Paterson said Labor’s action had shocked the cyber security and tech industry.
“Australia’s major cyber challenge is the lack of qualified experts and skilled migration is a key part of addressing that challenge,” Senator Paterson said.
“We need faster visa processing for cyber experts to make Australia a more competitive and attractive destination.
“The Labor Government have guaranteed delays and deadlock to cyber skilled migration without any industry consultation.”
