Redfern Legal Centre in Sydney said media spotlighting of dodgy employers had prompted authorities to take action. But the effect had been limited because abusive bosses and landlords had “changed their business model”.
Redfern solicitor Sean Stimson said the abuse had become more systemic as businesses manipulated visa arrangements to back students into a corner.
“An employer will try to push a student to a position where they are in breach of visa conditions,” Mr Stimson said. “Once there is a breach, they basically hold the student to ransom.”
He said the worst offenders were cleaning, hospitality and construction companies. A similar business model had emerged in accommodation, with owners routinely withholding bonds until students had left the country.
Rip-offs of international students have attracted intense media scrutiny during the past few years. The 7-Eleven convenience store chain was found to be substantially underpaying mainly Indian students.
Cleaning companies that contracted to Woolworths and Myer and resort companies Sheraton, Westin and Ibis hotel chains also have been implicated in exploitation.
Last week StudyNSW committed $250,000 to help international students with legal and employment issues. But Mr Stimson said the problem was getting worse. “I would say we’re seeing at least a 50 per cent increase in that type of systemic issue.”
The International Education Association of Australia said the worst offenders were often landlords and employers from the same ethnic background as the students.
Executive director Phil Honeywood said overseas students needed to be “very cautious” about dealing with business people, landlords and migration agents from their own ethnic backgrounds.
“Cultural exploitation (allows) elders to play havoc with their own young people, who respect advice from seniors. Often it’s much better to deal with so-called experts from a background other than your country.”
By John Ross, The Australian.
