Working Holiday Visa in the Spotlight as Unions Call for an End to Overseas Workers
Issues around the use of visa holders to undertake seasonal work in the horticulture industry have raised their head again after an alliance of unions called on the Federal Government to end the working holidaymaker visa. The Australian Workers’ Union, the Shop Distributive and Allied Employees’ Association and the Transport Workers’ Union have lodged a […]
Agriculture Warns Border Closures Could Wreak Havoc on Regional Communities and Food Security
Industry stakeholders are calling for Victorian border restrictions to be lifted, warning that agriculture is facing an “absolute disaster” without free access to neighbouring states. David Jochinke, president of the Victorian Farmers’ Federation, said that livestock management and harvest operations were in threat without the availability of labour anD resources. The VFF were among key […]
“Grain King” John Nicoletti Sells Dealership Network in Favour for a Return to Farming
Once Australia’s biggest farmer, John Nicoletti has made a return to the coalface by investing in a significant amount of Western Australian cropping land. Nicoletti sold his most of his holdings in 2018 to focus on the network of John Deere dealerships he owned across Western Australia. In a deal rumoured to be worth around […]
Booze, Cars and Visas: Australia – UK Free Trade Agreement set to Protect and Enhance Export Opportunities
Official discussions to form a free trade agreement between the United Kingdom and Australia begin online next week, with many industry bodies expressing their support for improved market access. The food and beverage industries are seen as being particular features of the bilateral agreement, in addition to working visas for young people. It is hoped […]
Government Increases Quad Bike Safety to Make Farming a Safer Occupation
A new law has been passed requiring all new quad bikes to be fitted with anti-roll devices and safety stickers within two years. The announcement by the federal government earlier this month comes after years of campaigning by groups including the National Farmers’ Federation, the Country Women’s Association and the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Between […]
Australian Government Promises Easier Access to Migrant Labour Pool
A relaxation in the rules that govern several Australian visa programs will give farmers better access to migrants and holiday makers for labour. The Australian government has announced that 18 new agricultural occupations will be added to the regional occupation list, opening up opportunities for employers seeking workers with overseas experience in aquaculture, cotton, horticulture, […]
Virtual Realities: Powering the Future of Agriculture.
Capitalising on the opportunities that virtual reality could offer agriculture, an Adelaide-based company has developed a number of immersive experiences to help the industry fill gaps including training, education, sales and marketing. The company’s VR paddock-to-plate experience is helping children across Australia better understand where their food comes from. The classroom is a bus that […]