NSW Farmers urges Australians looking for work to give farm work a go, particularly now the Australian Government has made relocation incentives more flexible.
Under the new banner of AgMove, Australians could be eligible for up to $2,000 in relocation assistance when they complete just 40 hours of agricultural work over a two-week period, reduced from six weeks.
If workers continue in agricultural work and complete 120 hours across a period of at least four weeks, they will be eligible for reimbursement of up to $6,000 for Australian workers and up to $2,000 for temporary visa holders.
NSW Farmers President James Jackson said there are plenty of benefits to relocating to regional areas for temporary harvest work.
"Students on university break, working holiday makers and seasoned workers are all perfect for the harvest workforce. Whether it be for a respite from city living or the potential to earn significant cash over a short timeframe, agriculture or harvest work could be the right move for right now," Mr Jackson said.
"Following the harvest trail can be a great way of seeing new parts of Australia, making new friends, and having new experiences to create memories that last a lifetime."
"We know that relocation costs are one of the barriers to locals taking up short-term agricultural work, but government funding should help remove that obstacle."
"There are also plenty of longer term farm work opportunities in the regional areas as farm enterprises are ramping up their operations taking advantage of improved weather conditions."
Mr Jackson said labour shortfalls have been a significant challenge for our agriculture sector, especially in horticulture and NSW Farmers welcomes the Australian Government's response to this critical issue.
"Hopefully now we see more people making the most of it and getting out to the regions."
