The federal Government has released new data which it says shows a spike in the numbers of of overseas workings coming to Australia on the 457 visa program.

Federal Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Brendan O’Connor, said that the data shows a 20 per cent spike over the last year.

“There are now 108 810 457 visa holders - a 20.4 per cent growth in the 12 months to April 30. This is at a time when employment growth remains soft in some industries and regions,” Mr O'Connor said.

“A recent survey by the Migration Council revealed that 15 per cent of employers anonymously surveyed said they used 457 visas, although they could find appropriate local labour.”

“Increasingly we are seeing the misuse of the system by employers who are not making an effort to find local labour first, or who exploit overseas workers under this scheme, which is why the government will take further action to stop employers misusing the program.”