Focus should not be on 457 visas: Qld govt

Queensland's training minister says the federal government should focus on getting Australians employed rather than tinkering with 457 visas.

File image of Yvette D'Ath Source: AAP

The federal government should be focusing on getting Australians employed rather than tinkering with foreign worker visa arrangements, Queensland's training minister says.

Yvette D'Ath has used the debate around 457 visas to call on the federal government to extend funding for the National Partnership Agreement on Skills Reform, due to expire in June, until a new plan is put forward.

"This funding cliff will leave a shortfall of over $100 million that is supposed to help businesses attract well-trained employees," Ms D'Ath said.