Skilled Migration Talent and Industry Connection Program

The Hon. J.S. LEE (15:29): I rise today to speak about six very encouraging pilot programs recently launched under the Skilled Migration Talent and Industry Connection Program. South Australia is proud to have so many professional skilled migrants choosing our state to call home. Throughout my 15 years in parliament, I have taken every opportunity to engage with our multicultural communities and they share with me that one of the most important reasons for our migrants to stay here in the long term is having the opportunity to find meaningful jobs so that they can build a new life for themselves and their families.

The Benchmarking Adelaide Report, released by the Committee for Adelaide last month, emphasised the need for Adelaide to improve its global reputation and connectivity. It is important to recognise that job-related initiatives are crucial in connecting skilled migrants to opportunities both in Adelaide metropolitan areas and regional areas. There is an untapped skilled migrant labour force already in South Australia; however, many individuals are not working in their chosen careers.

With a lack of local knowledge and networks, navigating Australia's complicated immigration system and finding employment opportunities without local contacts or experience can be incredibly challenging for new migrants. As a result, we have many skilled migrants finding work in the gig economy despite having qualifications that align with industries in dire need of their expertise. To address these challenges, I am pleased to highlight today the six unique and customised initiatives that are currently available in South Australia.

The first of these initiatives is the Master Builders SA BuildConnect program, which I spoke about at length recently. It commenced in January 2025 and has been embraced by the building and construction industry. Following BuildConnect, I congratulate the Australian Migrant Resource Centre for launching the Connect, Thrive and Contribute program. This initiative helps skilled migrants secure employment in the priority industries by providing networking events, personalised career guidance, one-on-one case management, and résumé and interview coaching. AMRC connect skilled workers to job vacancies and mentors and assists with relocation and community integration.

The third program is called Adelaide Connected, developed by the Committee for Adelaide, and aims to ease the transition for new residents. It highlights opportunities in the priority industries, specialising in high-tech industries like space and defence. This program also promotes the state globally by highlighting lifestyle and work opportunities that can be found, and seeks to grow South Australia's economy and promote diversity and inclusion.

The fourth program is a South Australian Business Chamber program called the Skilled Migration Talent and Industry Connection Program. It focuses on connecting member organisations with skilled workers either already based in South Australia or looking to relocate. Key features of the program include employer-focused events designed to educate on the benefits of employing international talent, and employee workshops. Additionally, the regional outreach initiative targets workforce shortages in regional areas, providing skilled migrants with access to job opportunities outside metropolitan Adelaide and educating employees about the advantages of hiring skilled migrants.

The fifth program I would like to talk about today, which was developed by SkillSmart careers, is called the Engineering Futures program, which will address the shortage of engineers on Eyre Peninsula and in the Far North of South Australia. This special 10-week program allows migrants to experience life in the region, building confidence in applying for roles and relocating to these regional centres, culminating in a four-day tour of Eyre Peninsula and Far North visiting employers in Port Augusta, Whyalla, Tumby Bay and Port Lincoln.

Finally, I would like to talk about the Community Corporate program that was recently launched. It is called the South Australian Skilled Migrant Job Support Centre. This centre provides local employers with comprehensive recruitment and placement services, cultural advisory assistance, industry engagement and networking events. The unique aspect of this program is the Cultural Confidence, Safety and Inclusion Training, which aims to dispel myths and foster welcoming workplaces that celebrate cultural diversity.