The characteristics and performance of 457 migrant visa sponsoring businesses

Date published:
1 June 2019

This research paper examines the characteristics and performance of Australian businesses which sponsored workers under the 457 migrant visa scheme.

Key points:

  • The 457 program was used by a diverse array of Australian industries and firms.
  • Businesses which sponsored workers under the 457 scheme had, on average, higher turnover, employment and wages than other firms.
  • While access to temporary skilled migrants is likely to have contributed to strong business performance, it is unlikely 457 migrants were the exclusive source

The research draws on data from the Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE) and unpublished data from the former Department of Immigration and Border Protection.

Authors: Bilal Rafi, Tala Talgaswatta