Officers of the Australian Border Force (ABF) have targeted a suspected illegal foreign worker operation in regional Victoria.
ABF officers executed three search warrants at residential properties in Shepparton on Wednesday 26 April.
20 unlawful non-citizens from Indonesia and Malaysia were located at these addresses who the ABF allege were working illegally.
Evidence obtained during the operation will be used to continue investigations into labour hire intermediaries who source illegal workers.
ABF Regional Commander for Victoria, James Watson, said the operation should act as a warning to those who are considering hiring illegal workers.
“This operation sends a strong message to the individuals involved; if you are in Australia without a valid visa, if you work in breach of your visa conditions or if you are exploiting foreign workers, you will be caught,” Regional Commander Watson said.
“There are heavy penalties that can apply to individuals and organisers who engage in illegal work.
“Anyone found to have employed illegal workers could face penalties of up to $108,000 per illegal worker.”
Under similar circumstances, last week (Thursday 27 April 2017), ABF officers executed one warrant in Western Australia with three Malaysia nationals taken into detention after being found to be working illegally.
Anyone who is aware of an individual, business or employer who may be facilitating visa fraud or illegal work is urged to contact Border Watch on 1800 009 623.
