• Jenny Cameron, Teresa Hinton
• Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs

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19 October 2006This report discusses the findings from a follow-up survey of 457 visa holders since the first surveys were conducted in 2003-04.
The paper focuses on the changes that have occurred in their employment and residence status over the course of a year. It also examines whether their views about their Australian work experience have changed during the one-year period. The follow-up survey also collected information about migrants' contact with various community and
government agencies, use of hospital services and receipt of government payments.

The follow-up survey confirmed the findings of the earlier survey that skilled
temporary migrants were generally positive about their work experience and their stay
in Australia and many were keen to settle here permanently. The follow-up survey
also confirmed the importance of Australia's lifestyle as a reason for migrants'
enthusiasm about their stay here. Most of those who had returned home were either
very satisfied or satisfied with their time in Australia. It would appear that the
temporary business entry program has been a positive initiative in terms of promoting
Australia to the overseas skilled labour market. This should improve Australia's
competitiveness in attracting skilled people from other countries to come and work
here.