Government loses foreign work appeal

The federal government is considering a Federal Court decision that overturned measures that made it easier to employ foreign workers on offshore oil rigs.

Assistant Immigration Minister Michaelia Cash used her regulatory powers last year to allow foreigners work rights on oil and gas projects, a day after the Senate disallowed the move.

The measure aimed to circumvent a decision by the previous Labor government to extend the migration zone.

Two maritime unions contested Senator Cash's determination, winning an appeal in the Federal Court on Thursday after three judges ruled it invalid.

Senator Cash told parliament she was aware of the decision and the government was considering the judgment.

Maritime Union of Australia national secretary Paddy Crumlin said hundreds of jobs in the offshore oil and gas sector were in doubt as a result of the decision.

He urged the government to sit down with relevant parties to discuss a solution that was acceptable to unions, employers and the Senate.

Greens deputy leader Adam Bandt said the government had been red-carded and the court's decision had sent it a clear message.

"Stop trying to circumvent the law, stop trying to bypass parliament and just play by the rules," he said.