The language requirement for all subclass 457 trades and chef applicants has been raised, effective yesterday, in response to concerns about the exploitation of workers from non-English speaking countries, the Department of Immigration and Citizenship announced.

A DIAC spokesperson said increasing the existing language requirement from International English Language Testing System (IELTS) 4.5 to IELTS 5 would align the subclass 457 English standard with permanent sponsored visas for trades occupations.

The increased IELTS score is part of the changes to Subclass 457 visa program announced by DIAC last 1 April.

“The requirement to ensure at least a ‘modest’ level of English – as defined under IELTS standards – is the first to be implemented after the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship announced a number of changes to the program,” the spokesperson said.

In its announcement, DIAC clarified that the revised English requirements apply to current 457 visa holders only where a subsequent application is made for a 457 visa seeking a visa stay period extending beyond the period of their current visa.

An English language requirement for subclass 457 visa applicants has been in effect since 1 July 2007.

Other changes announced last 1 April included the indexation of the subclass 457 visa minimum salary level by 4.1 per cent from July 1, the progressive implementation of skills assessment from that date, the transition to market-based pay from mid-September 2009, and the provision for greater requirements on employers to demonstrate a strong record of, or commitment to, employing local labour and non-discriminatory employment practices.

The spokesperson said that these measures are intended to ensure the subclass 457 visa program continues to provide industry with needed skills while not undermining local training and employment opportunities. #

.