Latest research by Monash University shows that the Australian state of Victoria will see a professional skills shortage of nearly 50,000 people within the next 15 years. The gap between university-qualified workers and the requirements of industry will grow to 49,000 by 2022.

Victoria will aim to attract a greater share of Australia's skilled migrant intake, Premier John Brumby announced today.

Mr Brumby said the Government wanted to boost Victoria's current share of Australia's skilled migrants from 26.8 per cent to 28.5 per cent by 2011.

He said Victoria had already boosted its share of Australia's skilled migrant intake from 17.6 per cent in 1998-99 and that skilled migration had made Victoria a "better, stronger and fairer society".

Victoria will attempt to lure skilled workers from India and the United Kingdom by establishing a Victorian Government presence in both countries to market the state's lifestyle and career opportunities.