In a win for local farmers and those looking for work, MADEC Harvest Trail Services (HTS) now offers its specialised no-cost employment services in the Hunter Valley and Central West region.
It's an expansion of MADEC Harvest Trail Services national footprint, which now includes 12 of the 16 horticultural regions that make up the Australian Government's Harvest Trail Services program. The program connects workers with employers in harvesting areas across Australia.
MADEC Harvest Trail Services National Manager Annabelle Edkins says the business places more than 15,000 workers nationwide each year, with the vast majority of harvest jobs being found in regional and rural areas.
MADEC Harvest Trail Services staff liaise with harvest employers, industry groups and leaders to keep up with regional trends and industry needs.
"We communicate with jobseekers outside the region, informing them of available facilities, transport and accommodation. And, we liaise with other labour services including the Harvest Trail Information Service. This extends to other potential labour sources including universities, hostels and community groups.
"Our approach is to look beyond the traditional demographics involved in harvest work and prioritises those who are likely to return year-on-year.
"We take the time to understand the horticultural business before we go looking for workers who will meet its needs, and we work with the business to ensure its legally compliant."
Ms Edkins says working with MADEC HTS means businesses can save time and increase compliance simultaneously.
"The harvest is often new to workers. Drawing on our knowledge of the sector and the business, we ensure workers know what to expect before they arrive. We talk them through what to expect, how they will get there, where they might stay, and what they'll be learning."
MADEC CEO Laurence Burt said the new contract with Harvest Trail Services represents a significant milestone in MADEC's long-standing commitment to supporting employment of those in need in local communities.
"Through Harvest Trail Services we aim to foster economic growth, support local farmers, and provide even more job seekers with meaningful employment opportunities in the horticultural sector," Mr Burt said.
"Australian horticulture is on track to be a $20 billion industry by 2030. Every region will play a part in meeting that target. We understand local farmers need good people, in every field and orchard, packing shed and warehouse. We also know the enormous opportunity employment can offer people, especially those in disadvantaged circumstances. We're about connecting the two and making a difference in people's lives."
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