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The new chief executive of blood plasma giant CSL, Paul Perreault, has warned that the federal governments risks limiting the ability of Australian firms to be truly global companies if it restricts 457 skilled working visas for foreigners, according to The Australian Financial Review.

Population growth is ''causing or exacerbating all of Australia's major problems'', according to a new political party created for the September election.

The Australian Government has been defending both its crackdown on and policing of Australia's skilled foreign worker visa scheme.

New figures show a recent surge in 457 visa applications that justifies the federal government's planned crackdown on rorts, Immigration Minister Brendan O'Connor says.

THE number of temporary foreign workers in Australia has risen by 22 per cent over the past year and is expected to rise further, with a recent spike in applications to the federal government from companies seeking to import skilled labour.

Burmese refugees in the Australian state of Victoria are being encouraged to use the state's parks to help them face the challenges of a new and unfamiliar Australian environment.

Federal Treasurer Wayne Swan says some Australians have trouble finding work because of business rorting of the 457 visa system, but industry fears the debate demonises companies and should be toned down.

The temporary skilled work subclass 457 programme will be reformed in response to the changing needs of the Australian economy and domestic employment market, the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship has announced.