The Federal Government has formed a new Ministerial advisory Council on Skilled Migration, aimed at providing the Government with expert advice on the role of skilled migration within the Australian economy.

 

“Skilled migration plays a valuable role in addressing current and future skill shortages, as well as lessening the impact of Australia's ageing population, and it's important that we have fresh perspectives on how to best address these issues,” Minister for Immigration and Citizenship Chris Bowen said.

 

Mr Bowen said the council members have been drawn from a wide range of backgrounds, experience and professional expertise.

 

'I welcome the appointment of Mr Michael Easson AM as chair of the 18-member council,' Mr Bowen said.

 

'Mr Easson brings substantial experience to the council from his work as the executive chair of the EG Property Group, business consultant at Allens Arthur Robinson, deputy chair of ACT Electricity and Water Corporation, director of Macquarie Infrastructure Investment Management and Metro Transport, independent director of ING Management, and former vice president of the Australian Council of Trade Unions.'

 

The other members of the new council include:

  • Mr Grant O'Brien, Managing Director and CEO Woolworths
  • Mr James Pearson, Chief Executive of Chamber of Commerce and Industry WA
  • Ms Karen Read, General Manager of Financial Services, Commercial and Administration, Xstrata
  • Mr Innes Willox, Chief Executive of Australian Industry Group
  • Mr Paul Howes, National Secretary of Australian Workers' Union
  • Ms Ged Kearney, President of Australian Council of Trade Unions
  • Prof Peter McDonald AM, Director of Australian Demographic and Social Research Institute, ANU
  • Mr Dave Noonan, National Secretary of Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union
  • Mr Peter Tighe, National Secretary of Communications, Electrical and Plumbing Union of Australia.

 

In addition, each state and territory will be represented by a government official nominated by its state premier or territory chief minister.