Chris Ellison (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Human Services) Share this | Hansard source

I note that Senator Ludwig does not refer to a particular case. For privacy reasons, I can understand that, but I am not aware of the particular two instances that Senator Ludwig has referred to. Can I say that section 457 visas play a very important role in getting industry the skilled labour it needs. I mentioned the other day in this place the oversight that we put in place in relation to 457 visas and the fact that the Workplace Ombudsman has advised that the cancellation of a visa holder’s visa will not preclude them receiving any back payment owed. That is in a general sense.

As for the specifics of this case, I am quite prepared to provide a briefing to Senator Ludwig without revealing the details publicly if he does not want to, but I am not aware of the particular instance involved. The only advice I have is that the Workplace Ombudsman has advised the department that cancellation of a visa holder’s visa will not preclude them from receiving any back payment owed. That is my advice. If Senator Ludwig has any further details, he can take them up with me.