GPA WELCOMES URGENT VISA PATHWAY FOR HARVEST

Grain Producers Australia has welcomed a new priority pathway for urgent Working Holiday Maker visa cases, but says growers need clear information and enough time to use it as harvest gets under way.

Under the arrangement, urgent cases can be put forward through state farming organisations and the National Farmers’ Federation, with submissions made to the Department of Home Affairs by 3pm each working day.

GPA Chair Matthew Madden says the pathway could help growers secure critical workers, but is concerned about the limited notice and public information provided.

“We are concerned the pathway has arrived with very little notice and very little public detail, right as harvest gets under way.”

The pathway applies where a worker has already applied for a Working Holiday Maker visa, has been engaged for work on a specific farm and their arrival is critical to the business.

GPA is seeking more information on how long the pathway will operate and where growers can find clear details on eligibility and how to apply.