Refugee Labor Program Set to End

Why this is here: Over half of the world’s 42.5 million refugees face difficulty entering local labor markets, despite many possessing valuable skills and education.

Researchers with the Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law studied a program helping skilled refugees find work in regional Australia. The Skilled Refugee Labour Agreement Pilot eases international hiring for both refugee applicants and sponsoring employers. Interviews with business owners across regional Australia reveal widespread labor shortages and burnout among staff.

The program, running from July 2021 to April 2026, has allowed 182 skilled refugees and 393 family members to settle permanently in Australia. Roughly one-third of these workers are employed in regional areas, filling roles in engineering, healthcare, and trades. Employers report high retention rates and positive community integration, with families enrolling children in local schools and partners finding local employment.

However, awareness of the program remains limited. Small businesses face upfront costs with international hiring, and current policies do not fully support refugee families’ long-term success.

The program is set to end on June 30, despite evidence of its benefits. Researchers suggest extending the pilot and making it a permanent program to address skills shortages and offer pathways for skilled refugees.