Hundreds of illegal foreign workers nabbed

More than 225 illegal foreign workers have been nabbed by border force officials and hundreds more have been stopped from entering Australia during a nation-wide blitz.

Nearly 50 commercial and residential properties were raided as part of the operation targeting visa fraud, illegal work and exploitation of foreigners.

Workers swept up in the raids were employed in industries ranging from agriculture to retail and hospitality.

They came from countries including Malaysia, Indonesia, China, Vietnam, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Tunisia.

Almost half were netted across NSW and the ACT.

The majority of illegal workers discovered have been deported and investigations continue into a number of labour-hire companies.

"Combating visa fraud and investigating those who attempt to exploit and profit from Australia's regime is a priority for the ABF," Commander Robyn Miller said in a statement on Monday.

Employers who organise illegal work can face up to 10 years behind bars and fines of up to $210,000.