The engineering skills shortage in Australia, of which the pipeline industry is no exception, requires both short and long term solutions. While the On-hire Labour Agreement meets short term needs, it also has stringent provisions in place for the development of Australian employees to meet future demands.

Bayside Personnel Chief Executive Officer Mathew Westcott says “It is highly beneficial to bring experienced engineers to Australia in an on-hire arrangement, because one engineer can work with different companies on varying projects and have the opportunity to mentor many Australian engineers.”

He goes on to say that this will enable Bayside’s clients to retain engineering design and manufacturing related projects in Australia.

Bayside’s commitment to training and development aims to assist in reducing the pipeline engineering and technical skill gap in Australia. Mr Westcott believes that overseas skilled engineers will also play a significant role in mentoring and training the next generation of engineers in best practice.

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The shortage of engineers is a multi-faceted issue. It has become increasingly prevalent in the Australia pipeline industry and around the world in the last five years. As an approved business sponsor prior to legislative changes, Bayside Personnel is experienced in working with government and industry bodies to ensure that employees are supported, and treated reasonably and fairly.

Bayside recruits engineers primarily from Australia and also from overseas when it is necessary to relieve skills shortages. “Australian engineers have a lot of talent and expertise; we simply don’t have enough in specific engineering disciplines,” says Mr Westcott.

The company currently has 50 engineers ready to come to Australia to assist key organisations to meet project deadlines.

Although recruiters approved for business sponsors prior to legislative changes have been able to continue with existing sponsorships, this agreement is necessary to sponsor new candidates.

“We are excited to assist our clients in providing experienced engineers from Australia and abroad. It is important to us that we build strong relationships with Australian employers, government bodies and industry bodies to reduce skill shortages in Australia. The 457 Visa is one of many ways that we can work to achieve this goal,” Mr Westcott says.