The Australian and Northern Territory Governments have agreed to conduct a trial aimed at addressing the labour shortages affecting NT farmers.

Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management David Littleproud said the COVID-19 pandemic had impacted agriculture with restrictions impeding international and domestic travel for would-be workers.

“The Northern Territory’s mango producers in particular are facing a rough road ahead without the workers they rely on for their harvest,” Minister Littleproud said.

“That’s going to come to a head when the mango harvest starts in earnest in September.

“This trial will see up to 170 workers under the Seasonal Worker Programme come to Australia to help with the 2020 harvest, with more workers to potentially follow subject to a review of the first cohort and approval for additional numbers by the NT Government.

“No one wants to see fruit and vegetables wasted and this trial will help make sure that doesn’t happen.

“There will be stringent conditions in place to ensure the safety of Australians and Northern Territorians – including the 14-day self-isolation requirements and the Northern Territory Chief Health Officer giving final go ahead for recruitment to commence.

“Growers will also need to meet conditions to participate including stringent labour market testing already required under the Seasonal Worker Programme.

“The Territory’s growers, more than any others, rely on seasonal workers and working holidaymakers- COVID-19 has virtually stopped that labour supply.

“To those working holiday makers who chose to stay in Australia, thank you for being here – and Australians looking for work, please consider heading north to take advantage of the work there,” Minister Littleproud said.

Acting Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs Alan Tudge said, “With appropriate quarantine arrangements in place, seasonal and Pacific workers can continue to safely support Australian farmers facing critical workforce shortages.

“Of course, farmers can only employ people under the Seasonal Worker Programme and Pacific Labour Scheme if they can demonstrate that no Australian is available to do the work.”

The trial builds on the visa changes the Government has already made to keep temporary workers in Australia longer to support critical sectors like agriculture during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Minister for Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business, Senator the Hon Michaelia Cash, said Harvest Trail Services providers continue to play a critical role assisting Australian growers to gain access to labour supply for seasonal peaks.

“Recognising the importance of seasonal workers to the Australian economy, the Australian Government in April announced temporary changes to visa arrangements allowing Seasonal Worker Programme participants to extend their stay in Australia and continue working for up to 12 months,” Minister Cash said.

“I am pleased to welcome this new trial which will helps support numerous growers in the Northern Territory. It’s crucial that we support our farmers through what has already proven to be a difficult season and ensure there are workers on the ground for a successful harvest.”

Country Liberals Senator for the Northern Territory, Dr Sam McMahon, said the trial was a critical first step towards helping mango growers with their upcoming harvest season.

“I am pleased to have helped secure such an important outcome for our mango producers, and acknowledge the significant work that has gone into making this trial a reality.

“I’m confident that this trial will not only help Territory producers, but it is essential for those seasonal workers who rely on this work to support their families and communities.