Today as expected, the Immigration Department today announced Aged care providers will temporarily be able to offer more hours to international students to ensure the care of senior and vulnerable Australians.
Acting Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs Alan Tudge said international students would help fill critical staff shortages emerging in the sector.
“As more workers take leave to quarantine or because of health concerns, we need to make sure there are enough staff to look after our older Australians who are particularly vulnerable to coronavirus,” Mr Tudge said.
“Many international students already work in the aged care sector but are restricted to 40 hours a fortnight. We’re relaxing those limits to help fill the temporary staff shortages.
“This follows similar concessions to major supermarkets to keep shelves stocked with essential items.
“We will continue to listen to businesses as the coronavirus situation develops and may consider expanding these measures to assist other sectors if and when required. We will also consider providing flexibility with other temporary visas should the need arise.”
Are students expected to be working when aged care facilities are full of coronavirus infected residents? Are they like temporary resident nursing students, nurses, and doctors going to be just discarded to the bin if they get sick and no longer able to work or study?
Our international visitors here on temporary residency visas owe Australian citizens nothing. This government has given no indication they are going to help you if you get sick and can’t complete your studies or continue working. They have given no indication they will even acknowledge your assistance.
My advice to you is don’t risk getting sick for just a few extra dollars in your hand. This government could not care less about you. When you have lost your job because you have fallen ill they won’t be paying your bills for rent and food. Let Australians risk themselves for their own community.
