Report finds one in four permanent skilled migrants working below their skill level

A new report says migrants and refugees are being overlooked as an answer to Australia's skills shortages. The report from Settlement Services International says billions of dollars could be injected into the economy.

Former United Nations HIV Program Specialist Dr Mohammad Zubair Harooni (Supplied)

Key Points

• Skilled migrants and refugees in Australia struggle to find a foothold in the local jobs market.
• Settlement Services International says lack of skills or education are examples of many reasons why migrants and refugees are being blocked from reaching their full potential in the workplace.
• Home Affairs Minister says the final new migration strategy will be released later this year.