FARM ONLINE | Contractors warn government visa slowdown to hit hard with harvest looming

Farm Online has reported growing concern that slower processing of working holiday visas could disrupt the upcoming grain harvest, with contractors warning backpackers can account for up to half of their seasonal workforce.

Skilled overseas workers are particularly important for operating modern harvest machinery, with delays potentially leaving workers unable to arrive when crops are ready.

Grain Producers Australia Chair Matthew Madden said the changes presented a real risk to growers’ ability to harvest efficiently and effectively.

“Many of our members rely on working holiday visa holders to meet their staffing capacity needs at critical times, such as during harvest, and this policy position could see them struggle unnecessarily,” he said.

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