The industry has been alerted to a Federal Government move to remove loss adjusting from its short-term list of occupations for temporary skilled work visas.

LMI Group MD Allan Manning has criticised the draft proposal, saying the low number of visas issued may have prompted a decision that they are not required.

But nothing could be further from the truth, Professor Manning says, and he has urged the industry to raise its concerns with the Government.

The Australasian Institute of Chartered Loss Adjusters’ website lists 235 practicing loss adjusters. Professor Manning says 47 operate under the 457 temporary visa.

In a blog post, he says the number of brokers complaining to him about claims service is at an all-time high, and this will probably get worse with the visa change.

To compound matters, many loss adjusters are retiring, Professor Manning says. With the impact of offshoring, the talent pool for loss adjusters is shrinking, and loss adjuster groups are straining under the burden of investment in training amid pressure on fees.

The deadline for feedback on the proposal is Wednesday. To make a submission, click here.