Aug
ANF Federal Secretary Ged (Gerardine) Kearney and ANF Assistant Federal Secretary Lee Thomas are available for comment on the Workplace Ombudsman’s decision to fine Sydney-based labour hire agency, Healthcare Recruiting Australia Pty Ltd, for underpaying three nursing assistants more than $15,000.
The company involved and its director Michelle Lloyd have already been fined a total of $48,000 in the Federal Magistrate’s Court for four breaches of the Workplace Relations Act.
Ms Kearney said the continued exploitation and abuse of 457 visa holders, many of whom are bought to the country to work in the nursing profession, highlights the need for a major overhaul of the scheme. “Governments and employers have a duty of care for these workers. The abuse and exploitation of people coming into this country to help relieve labour shortages must cease. It is clear there is an urgent need for stronger regulation and monitoring of the conditions the 457 visa holders are being employed under.”
The ANF, representing nearly 160,000 members, is the professional and industrial voice for nurses and midwives in Australia.
Australian Nursing Federation