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Capturing the diversity: migrants' skills and expertise

• Over 60% of migrants settle in Auckland and a growing number of migrants are coming from non-traditional countries.
• Current labour shortages mean that New Zealand is competing in the global market for skilled migrants.
• For migrants, the biggest concern around settlement is entering the workforce.
• The biggest barriers for employers looking to employ migrants are the real and perceived risks, such as uncertainty about qualifications and experience, language and communication issues and integration into the workforce.
• Given global competition for skilled migrants, if New Zealand doesn't act to 'capture' them, then they will leave and we will have missed an opportunity.
• A DOL led initiative is underway to set up local settlement networks that bring together government agencies and non-government organisations involved in migrant settlement with ethnic community organisations.
• Local ownership of the network is vital to ensure it works and funding will be made available.
• From an economic development perspective, immigration policy should be needs based (i.e. focus on skills and wealth).
• Napier City has participated in the New Zealand Expo in London to attract migrants to New Zealand.
• If a region/city is going to participate in the Expo, they need to ensure they are well prepared (e.g. marketing and knowing immigration standards) and have a clear focus on the outcomes they want to achieve (i.e. know your region's needs).
• Key areas that need improving are qualification transfers to New Zealand and the time taken to process immigration applications.
• Although it sounds attractive, a one stop shop is not workable for the full range of services that are needed in this area. Further, a 'one stop shop' approach could create barriers for migrants integrating into society (i.e. the important issue is getting existing service providers up to speed).
• Perceived and real risks are a key barrier to employing migrants. For example, employers don't know how prepared the migrant is for work, how well they will fit in to the work place, or how to find out more about the migrant (i.e. references).