Australia looking for skilled Indians

Melbourne, Mar 20 (UNI) Demand for skilled Indian workers has increased manifold in the South Australian state of Victoria, its deputy premier John Thwaites said here today.

''We are now following a very proactive strategy to attract skilled Indian immigrants to our state. This is because of the severe skills shortage that we are facing,'' Mr Thwaites said Talking to newspersons here, he said there is an acute shortage of skilled workers in various fields in the state including health services, construction and business management.

The state government has recently set up an office in Bangalore to address issues relating to investment and immigration and offer advisory services.

Victoria is specifically targeting Punjab and plans to hold roadshows for potential immigrants in Chandigarh, he added.

In the face of the growing demand for skilled workers in the country, the Australian government is planning to review the student visa status hoping it will attract greater number of Indian students.

''Victoria already plays host to a big section of the Indian immigrant community. Our capital city Melbourne is among the world's most multicultural destinations. We hope these will provide good reasons for skilled Indians to head for Victoria,'' Mr Thwaites added.

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