Labour Agreements for Chefs & Australian Hospitality School Graduates (AHSG)
The Australian Hotels Association is party to two agreements with the Department of Workplace Relations (DEWR) and the Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs (DIMIA) relating to sponsorship of overseas hospitality student graduates and trade-qualified chefs to work in positions within the hospitality industry. The aims of these agreements are to streamline the temporary entry to, and stay in Australia, of these persons whilst encouraging the reduction, over the life of the agreement, on reliance on expatriate personnel by AHA members

Who Do They Apply To?
The agreements cover the following occupations:
1. Chefs – including commis chef, demi chef, chef de partie, sous chef & exec chef
(Visa subclass 457 under the Chef’s Agreement is for a maximum of 3 years)
2. AHSG – Trainee Hotel Manager (ASCO 3323-11) and Trainee Restaurant & Catering Manager (ASCO 3322-11) (Visa subclass 457 under the AHSG’s Agreement is for a maximum of 18 mths).

Nominee Requirements
The nominations are full time positions for the duration of the visa and nominees can only work in these occupations. The Hotel must pay at least the Award minimum prescribed for these positions. The prospective nominee must be able to demonstrate to DIMIA that they have the necessary skills, qualifications and experience required for the position nominated.

Employer Requirements
The employer must meet relevant Australian statutory obligations relating to remuneration, terms and conditions and OH&S. Concurrently, they must continue to demonstrate commitment by promoting employment opportunities for Australian citizens and permanent residents.

How To Apply
Attachment A Employer
The Hotel falls under this category if they have already satisfied the key employment and training requirements as specified by DEWR. Form 1196 (previously 1068) – Sponsoring temporary overseas employees to Australia – must be completed. The Hotel provides information about the position including the main responsibilities and duties, qualifications, essential skills and employment experience required and salary details. If available, details of the nominee including a copy of their resume and references to be attached.

Following approval by DIMIA, the Hotel is to provide a copy of the approval notice to the nominee who will attach it to their visa application by completing form 1066. Note the nominee does not have to be in Australia to lodge their application; it can be lodged at the nearest Australian overseas mission. If possible, provide the nominee with a letter of offer or employment contract with salary details as well.

Attachment B Employer
If the Hotel is not pre-qualified it must completed an “Attachment B” form as well as form 1196. The Hotel must provide information on the number of trainees and apprentices it has and plans to recruit as well as details on its training commitments over the next twelve months. The form will be forwarded to DEWR for assessment and, if approved, form 1196 will be forwarded to DIMIA.

Cost
There is a $110.00 (incl. GST) fee per application lodged to cover administration costs, this will be invoiced by the AHA.Under the new agreement established in May 2005, DIMIA will charge $55.00 per Business Sponsorship application (1196 form).

How Long Will It Take For The Sponsorship To Be Processed?
It can take up to 4 weeks to have the sponsorship processed.For more information, please contact the AHA, National Office on (02) 6273 4007.