Easy employment for Aussies in the US a ‘cruel hoax’

The most recent figures from the Department of Homeland Security indicate that several Australians are heading to the United States. It was revealed that at least 12,872 Aussies had been granted a B1-2 visa last year, , but not all of these visits are for work purposes.

Some Australians who flee to America utilise the B1-2 visa to hunt for jobs. Only 5609 E-3 visa were issued in 2016, just a 1.6 percent rise from the previous year and well short of the 10,500 cap.

New York-based expat group The Australian Community’s James Boland, who analysed the latest figures from the Department of Homeland Security, said there was a perception on social media that an “Australian invasion” was on track. But he pointed out that US employers lining up to provide jobs for Aussies are not supported by the numbers.

Ultimately, additional E-3 visas do not mean a surplus of jobs for Aussies in the US. According to Boland, the majority of “E-3 hopefuls” are going back jobless and financially strained. He added that Australians were not aware of how competitive the US job market is. “Anyone who says it is easy for Australians to find work in the US is perpetrating nothing more than a cruel hoax."

Although the path could be tough, Aussies can find work in America with the right knowledge. Thirty-four-year-old Isabelle Raphael, who has lived in New York for more than six years, admitted to news.com.au that she had a “nightmare” experience until she found a secure job.

Raphael estimated she went through as many as 1,000 interviews since she moved to New York. She now works for a start-up that makes sustainable eco products.

Meanwhile in Australia, Premier Mark McGowan slashed the number of occupations on the skilled migration list to 18 from 178. He said he wanted to ensure local tradespeople "get West Australian jobs first.”

Several types of engineers were among those removed from the list. Refrigeration mechanics, electricians, bricklayers, cafe managers and psychologists, among others, were also off the list.

McGowan said a widespread consultation was conducted before the decision has been made. Medical professionals like GPs and some specialist doctors and nurses are occupations left on the list. “This is about West Australian jobs first and foremost, making sure we only sponsor those people that we actually need,” McGowan said, according to Nine News.

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