WORKING HOLIDAY VISA SLOWDOWN ‘LOW BLOW’ FOR FARMERS

The National Farmers’ Federation says a three-month processing timeframe for Working Holiday Maker visas will leave farmers struggling to secure workers ahead of harvest.

NFF President Hamish McIntyre says approvals previously took days, with the recent slowdown already creating workforce shortages across agriculture.

Working Holiday Makers fill about one in seven farm jobs nationally, with their contribution particularly important during peak periods such as harvest.

Mr McIntyre says the Government’s decision to restore agriculture as a priority sector is welcome, but farmers need visa applications processed in days rather than months.

He says a three-month timeframe could mean the difference between harvesting a crop and losing it, with Queensland harvest already underway and the main season approaching.

The NFF is calling for urgent consultation with the Federal Government, warning delays are increasing pressure on farmers and could create further safety risks during the busy harvest period.