Visa extensions

The ABGC has been actively lobbying Federal Government Ministers and departments to secure extensions to visas for working holiday makers and Pacific Islanders currently on banana farms. 

Two weeks ago, the ABGC wrote to the eight Federal Government ministers involved, along with some Senators and Members of Parliament. The lack of a positive response to date implies other issues intersecting with this matter. 

Unlike other crops, bananas are a 52-week-a-year operation. Growers need workers currently on banana farms to be able to stay, while looking to employ local staff as well. 

As a result of the debate on this matter in Canberra, the ABGC issued the attached media release today. Read it here

Primary producers exempt from firearm restrictions 

The ABGC responded swiftly to a directive sent to gun dealers from the Weapons Branch last Saturday which banned firearm dealers from trading as part of restrictions on “non-essential services” during the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic.  

We lobbied for primary producers to be exempt from the directive, and yesterday (31 March, 2020) Queensland Agriculture Minister Mark Furner confirmed that primary producers, feral animal controllers, vets and a number of other state and federal bodies were exempt. 

Government assistance 

The COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic continues to evolve and present challenges to everyday living and how growers operate their business.  

It’s imperative at this time that growers familiarise themselves with the rules and guidelines set down by government and authorities to protect themselves, their workers and businesses.  

The following link provides a central point for the most current information on issues such as health, financial assistance (business and employees), industry support and managing staff. 

Coronavirus information available 

While the ABGC aims to keep growers up-to-date with current advice being rolled out by government authorities and industry groups, we are acutely aware of not bombarding growers with too much information. 

If you have a particular concern or question, please email Jim Pekin at jim.pekin@abgc.org.au 

The ABGC will continue to provide information as it comes to hand through our regular grower e-bulletins and designated Coronavirus page on our website.   

Labour needs in the horticulture industry 

Growcom, a registered industrial association, is carrying out a survey to ascertain labour needs in the horticulture industry  from April to September 2020.   

The information will help government and industry  better understand labour needs down to a regional level and ensure measures put in place are scaled and responsive.   

The survey, Horticulture Labour Forecast – April to September  2020, is available  here

It will take less than 10 minutes to complete and closes on  Friday (3  April,  2020).  

Securing future farm labour 

The Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) has released a COVID-19 impact on Queensland’s agriculture workforce.

It will help growers navigate future farm labour needs in the months ahead. 

See here 

Supplies of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) 

Are you experiencing problems accessing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)? 

The Queensland Government is helping businesses that are currently impacted by the ongoing coronavirus situation.  

To register to obtain supplies such as such as masks or sanitisers, complete a supply form here