Caught in Visa Squeeze

Emergency visa process no substitute for lasting workforce reform

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) is calling for urgent reform of Australia’s regional workforce and migration settings, warning the recent emergency process for critical farm worker applications is only a short-term pressure valve. NFF President Hamish McIntyre said the Federal Government’s cooperation on urgent Working Holiday Maker cases was welcome, but it did not address […] The post Emergency visa process no substitute for lasting wor…

North Queensland growers among those bracing for labour hit under visa caps

FNQ Growers warn new WHM visa caps will spark COVID-like shortages across regional farms. Find out why backpackers are turning away from the ballot system.

Caught in visa squeeze

FARMERS facing the spring harvest have been caught in a growing political row over changes to Australia’s backpacker visa system. Federal Member for Farrer David Farley welcomed a temporary arrangement between the Federal Government and the National Farmers’ Federation to prioritise urgent Working Holiday Maker visa applications linked to agricultural work. But the One Nation […]

Farmers Demand Urgent End to Backpacker Visa Delays

Farmers Demand Urgent End to Backpacker Visa Delays The National Farmers’ Federation warns that delays affecting Working Holiday Maker visas could leave farms without enough workers during critical planting and harvesting periods. Australian farmers are urging the Federal Government to restore timely processing of Working Holiday Maker visas, warning that continued disruption could place food production, workplace safety and regional economies u…