Population ageing is occurring across Australia due to a sustained decline in fertility rates and a decline in mortality owing to better healthcare and technology. Ageing workers face specific OHS concerns, including decreased physical capacity, fatigue, increased rates of musculoskeletal disorders and greater incidence of disease.58
In 2006-07, people aged 45-64 years made up over a third (37 per cent) of the labour force, compared with 24 per cent in 1983-84.59
In the 20 years to March 2008, the workforce participation rate of people aged 45 years and over increased from 40 per cent to 50 per cent, while the participation rate for those aged 15–44 years increased marginally from 78 per cent to 80 per cent.60
Between 2011 and 2030, the generation of people born between 1946 and 1965 will turn 65 years old. The large number of people set to retire from Australia's workforce over the next few decades raises the possibility of a shortage of labour to meet future demands, and hence new work pressures and arrangements.
Migrant workers
Migrant workers, particularly those used to undertake low skilled work, face a number of OHS challenges. There is concern that language barriers and interdependence of the employment/visa status may reduce the willingness of migrant workers to raise OHS concerns and to understand and respond to OHS risks and practices in the workplace.
The 457 Subclass visa program, also known as the temporary (long stay) business visa, was introduced in Australia in 1996 so that employers could quickly recruit skilled workers where employment vacancies could not be filled locally.
Due to recent labour shortages, the number of 457 primary visas issued has increased by 24 per cent between 2006-07 and 2007-08.61
Approximately 70 per cent of 457 visa holders are from non-English speaking countries.62 In 2007-08, the visas were most commonly issued to people working in the health and community services, property and business services and construction industries.
In April 2008, the Australian Government commenced a review of the temporary skilled migration program to address concerns about the exploitation of migrant workers.63 This review includes examining health and safety protections and training requirements that apply in relation to temporary skilled workers.
