The significant lack of workers is putting pressure on fruit growers for the second year running and, with only one harvest per season, they are concerned their crops will be wasted and their livelihood put at risk.
Most of the Victorian fruit harvesting work is in the Goulburn Valley and those who relocate to take up the agricultural positions (minimum four weeks) can apply for the Federal Government assistance package AgMove.
AgMove provides up to $6000 to Australian job seekers and up to $2000 for international job seekers. AgMove is available until the end of June.
Some assistance with accommodation and transportation at the worker’s location is available for pickers and packers that sign up through the PickGV program, as well as some opportunities to see the work in action for a day in Shepparton or Cobram to ensure the work is right for them.
The Harvest Trail season started in November with cherries and will finish around May with apples. The regional work available is suitable for those looking for shorter term positions through the season (with a minimum of two weeks required by growers), or longer term — with some people staying on the whole season.
No experience is needed to work on the Harvest Trail and there are different jobs across the season such as fruit picking, packing, thinning and pruning.
“We really are relying on Victorians or those coming into the state to get the fruit off the tress and packed ready for distribution to markets and supermarkets,” Fruit Growers Victoria growers services manager Michael Crisera said.
“The last two years has been tough on everyone, but the Victorian fruit industry only has one season per year and the worker shortage is far worse than last year and growers know the whole season is at risk,’’ Mr Crisera said.
“The start of the season has already been difficult, with the colder and wetter weather than usual, and the repercussions of not having enough workers will not only impact the farmers themselves but the consumer. The consequences will be significant wastage, lack of income for the growers and lack of stock at the shops.
“Our fruit growers have plenty of positions available and we encourage anyone to give it a go. While the work is not for everyone, we have found that those that enjoy the outdoor work in the state’s regions love it.
“Fruit harvesting is great for school leavers, grey nomads and those looking for work throughout the summer.”
For more information visit www.pickgv.com.au
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