The rising tide of populism and nationalism is increasingly impacting on international mobility. In the last 12 months, major political decisions, events and conditions have had a significant impact on how businesses approach mobilisation of talent - some examples include Brexit and the recent US travel ban. More than ever, global mobility teams play an increasingly important and strategic role in ensuring the right people can be in the right place at the right time.

Our keynote speakers outlined some of the key trends in Australia (this ended up being more extensive because of the abolishment of the 457 visa program 2 weeks before the event), the APAC region and globally which are impacting on the movement of people, how businesses are navigating through the constantly changing political landscape and the ways in which mobility / immigration programs are being adapted in response.

Both Cory Davie (Control Risks) and Cherie Wright (Fragomen) gave an extensive account of the global landscape from their respective areas of expertise. As the 457 visa abolishment was on everyone’s minds the immigration section focused on that more than the international scene:

1. Recent legislative and policy changes in Australia (with examples from Singapore and China)

• Journey from an Open Market to Protectionism
• Australia’s political landscape
• New Temporary Skill Shortage visa
• Understanding the new occupation lists
• Timeline of Reforms

2. Key considerations in this new environment and tips for business

3. Navigating immigration changes, what you can do:

• Comprehensive data collection – impact assessment & triage
• Keep up to date & support unsettled staff. Protect talent pipeline
• Review strategies, factor in lead times and ‘front load’ applications
• Collecting & analysing records will help you identify affected employees/roles
• Briefing sessions to employees and senior management
• Recruitment, global mobility and employee retention strategies need to aligned an

Please see slide deck for greater detail.

The last 15-20 minutes of the workshop was devoted to audience being asked to discuss the impact of the changes, their own experiences and initiatives that have been implemented to better partner with the business in managing political risk.

Want to know more about the Sydney Chapter Meeting or receive updates on future events? Please email Aysegul Kayahan