Australian Border Force (ABF) officers from the Department of Home Affairs conducted operations across Far North Queensland recently to combat migrant worker exploitation and ensure employer compliance.
Over a three-day period, immigration compliance officers from the Field Operations and Sponsor Monitoring (FOSM) command - supported by partner agencies - conducted coordinated compliance activities across the Cairns region, with a strong focus on the personal services and hospitality sectors.
Field Operations QLD/NT Superintendent Melati Smith said the deployment had three main objectives: protect vulnerable migrant workers, remind employers of their obligations, and assist those who need help.
"Our officers are trained to pivot between enforcement and support - we are uncompromising on non-compliant employers, while remaining sensitive and compassionate when engaging exploited individuals," she said.
More than 20 businesses were visited, uncovering a number of visa violations and migrant worker exploitation issues.
Three individuals without work rights were found to be employed in - and in some cases residing at - workplaces. Two were granted bridging visas to facilitate their voluntarily departure from Australia, while the third is on a removal pathway.
Immigration compliance field officers are considering hefty infringements against the businesses that were contravening work-related provisions under the Migration Act.
Superintendent Smith said the outcomes of the Cairns operations reaffirmed the need for an ongoing national focus on industries where migrant workers remain at risk of exploitation.
Employers found to be engaging illegal workers face serious consequences under strengthened provisions of the Migration Act. These may include compliance notices, enforceable undertakings, increased penalties, civil or criminal prosecution, and in some cases, prohibition from employing further migrant workers.
Superintendent Smith said it has never been easier for employers to do the right thing. Businesses can check the work rights of prospective employees through Home Affairs' Visa Entitlement Verification Online system to ensure they do not unintentionally allow illegal work.
Anyone with information relating to potential immigration offences or suspicious activity is encouraged to contact Home Affairs and make a report online at Border Watch. Reports can be made anonymously.
