NEW DELHI: Australia today said the changes made in its work visa regime were not directed at India or any other country and asserted that Indians are not likely to be significantly affected by the modification in the policy.
Australia’s High Commissioner to India Harinder Sidhu also said the change in visa regime was carried out to ensure that Australians get first preference in skilled jobs. She said Indians are mostly employed in the high-skilled IT sector where Australia does not have sufficient manpower.
Referring to incidents of attacks on Indian students in Australia, some of which were allegedly racial in nature, she asserted that Australia has “zero tolerance” for any racial behaviour.
During an interaction with journalists here, Sidhu also emphasised that the bilateral ties have seen a “steady upward trajectory” and Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull’s recent visit here has “injected a fresh momentum” in the relationship. (agencies)
Follow our WhatsApp channel