High Court rules against visa exemptions for offshore oil and gas workers

The High Court has ruled that the minister exceeded his authority when making visa exceptions for offshore workers.

Goodwyn 'A' offshore gas production platform in North West Shelf Western Australia.

The maritime union has won a High Court challenge against Federal Government visa arrangements that allow the ministerial exemption of vessels from Australia’s migration zone.

The High Court unanimously ruled the immigration minister had exceeded his authority by exercising unrestrained power to make visa exemptions. The ruling has implications for Australian and foreign workers in the offshore oil and gas industry.

AAP