Border protection sends warning to visa overstayers

Border protection sends warning to visa overstayers

A string of end of year operations have led to a number of illegal workers being located in Australia, emphasising the renewed warning that those caught will be returned to their home country.

Assistant Minister for Immigration and Border Protection, Michaelia Cash, said 14 illegal workers were located at a fruit farm near Batlow, in the south west of New South Wales, while 11 visa overstayers were found on the mid-north coast of the state.

‘Thirteen people including six couples were caught by compliance officers in the operation at Batlow. The group was transported to Villawood Immigration Detention Centre in Sydney, pending their removal from Australia at the earliest opportunity,’ explained Cash.

‘These operations were conducted in response to community information supplied to the department. Investigations into the circumstances of the employment of the illegal workers are continuing,’ Cash explained.

‘Employers should be aware it is a criminal offence to knowingly or recklessly allow a person to work illegally or to refer an illegal worker for work,’ she added.

The visa entitlement verification online (VEVO) service allows employers to check the visa status and eligibility of prospective employees hoping to work in Australia.

Employers found to be employing illegal workers face hefty fines of up to $20,400 and two year’s imprisonment, while companies face fines of up to $102,000 per illegal worker.

To make sure you aren’t subject to fines and criminal charges, contact No Borders for more information on worker’s visas.

Book a free consultation today and let us help you find a way forward.