Skilled and Business migration have not been given enough of a focus in South Australia, with the state falling behind the eastern seaboard when it comes to attracting skilled workers and business investment.
In a bid to help boost the state’s percentage share of skilled and business migration, Business SA has appointed long-standing migration expert, Sherrie Gaskin, in a new role at the organisation.
Ms Gaskin will be responsible for addressing the skills shortage faced by many businesses in South Australia, informing the community about visa programs and what is available to the state’s businesses, and supporting businesses to achieve successful migration outcomes.
“South Australia needs to lift its game when it comes to attracting and retaining skilled and business migrants, and Business SA is ideally placed to support organisations needing help to boost their operations,” Ms Gaskin said.
“Many organisations are unsure how to go about recruiting skilled workers from overseas, which visas are available and what’s required. If we can focus on boosting skilled migration, we’ll also encourage more people to come to South Australia and in turn increase our population, which has also been lagging behind the eastern states. Business migrants can also bolster two-way trade.”
Ms Gaskin will also work in the advocacy area, because businesses often struggle to have their voices heard when it comes to key issues including migration and access to skilled workers.
“Regional businesses often tell us how difficult it can be to find skilled workers, and we know that when they’re embraced by a community, they provide a social and economic boost, often boosting schools and community clubs at the same time,” she said.
“If we can help businesses when they need it the most, the whole state will benefit. We can also give employers a voice when talking to state and federal governments.” Ms Gaskin said the Federal Government last year recognised that South Australia faced different economic and business challenges to the rest of the nation and had introduced several regional visa options to facilitate skilled migration.
Business SA Chief Executive Martin Haese said it was essential for the state to boost skilled and business migration and having Ms Gaskin as part of his team was a valuable asset for members and the wider business community.
“Sherrie brings a wealth of experience to Business SA and has an incredible understanding of migration issues,” Mr Haese said. “She will be an asset not just to our organisation, but to the entire state as we all work to build our economy.”
For further information or to arrange an interview please contact Verity Edwards on 0412 678 942.