The Fyles Government is attempting to address the NT’s skilled worker shortage by opening applications for the Offshore General Skilled Migration (GSM) program for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

The GSM program provides incentives and access for skilled overseas workers to work and migrate to the Territory, with workers who meet the government’s employment criteria able to obtain a five-year provisional visa, which could lead to permanent residency.

The program will focus on qualified workers in vital industries such as health, science, finance, agriculture, construction, telecommunications, information technology, and hospitality.

To target skilled overseas workers, the program’s submission criteria have been revised to pinpoint experts and highly experienced employees in high-priority occupations, who have established family connections and support in the Territory, or have verifiable job offers from Territory businesses, the government said.

Likewise, the Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP) provides five-year provisional visas, and possible permanent residency for overseas investors and business entities who wants to live and invest, do business or entrepreneurial activities in the Territory. The revised nomination criteria for BIIP give improved flexibility and are seen to increase the number of qualified candidates.

Chief Minister Natasha Fyles said the program will help more businesses find staff to ensure the business keeps moving.

“This is not about just encouraging people to move to the Territory for the short term, we want to incentivise them to stay,” she said.

“We will always look at innovative ways to adapt programs we have underway to make a difference to locals and fill gaps where we can.”

Minister for Business, Jobs and Training Paul Kirby said the government is working to address the current skilled worker shortfall.

“The Territory Labor Government is working with business to address ongoing worker shortages, with increased international migration a key part of our population growth, and delivering a skilled and diverse workforce,” Mr Kirby said.

He added that the government expects to attract 1400 people through the latest push, but is aiming to attract 3000 people a year “on these types of programs”. Mr Kirby did not say how that would be acheived.