We would like to thank all members who provided assistance and input in the compilation of this submission. The overwhelming response from our members, especially through the online survey conducted amongst members in February, confirmed that there are key areas where action is urgently required.

AMMA's letter to the Minister, containing a summary of the submissions, can be viewed by clicking here.

AMMA's submission can be viewed by clicking here.

In summary, AMMA believes that the following actions are needed:

• The urgent implementation of Priority Processing for 457 visa nominations for sponsors with a demonstrated proven track record of compliance with all 457 obligations.

• A new Short-Term Temporary visa category with less onerous requirements than a 457 temporary skilled visa that will enable employers to sponsor specialist workers for short-term work contracts of up to 12 months.

• An improvement in standard 457 visa processing times to four weeks from the current 12 weeks plus, that currently exists.

• Improved communications with DIAC staff.

• Improvement in Labour Agreement processing times.

• The introduction of a stage by stage online tracking system for all skilled visa lodgements.

• The inclusion of general construction workers (semi skilled) such as riggers and scaffolders in the list of occupations permitted for temporary work visas to address employer skills needs.

• The salary definition should not exclude regular penalty payments, bonuses, allowances and so forth that are a common feature of resource sector operations.

Members can contact Geoff Bull, Principal Consultant in our Perth office on (08) 9221 5444 should they require further information on the submission.