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Visa changes gives farmers access to emergency workforce
Elizabeth Gracie
Holiday makers stranded in Australia previously covered by the Seasonal Labour and Pacific Labour Schemes have been approved to work in the agricultural sector until the coronavirus pandemic has diminished in severity.
The new visa scheme announced by the Australian Federal Government will bring much needed relief for farmers who are already dealing with increased demand as a result of the pandemic.
This scheme will support businesses, provide job opportunities for seasonal workers and secure the nation's food supply according to Deputy Prime Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack.
Australian farmers will also benefit from added health controls at state borders that will impose strict self-isolation procedures for working holiday makers over a period of 14 days in order to protect the ongoing health of regional communities and Australia's agricultural sector.
Acting Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs Alan Tudge has noted the importance of seasonal visa workers as “they fill a critical workforce gap” in Australia's agricultural sector. This scheme will thus bring added food security to the nation with the extra hands to harvest crops and get them to supermarkets to ensure critical services continue.
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