HORTICULTURE REQUIRES A STABLE, PRODUCTIVE, AND RETURNING WORKFORCE WHICH IS ABLE TO OPERATE WITHIN THE NUANCES OF THE SEASONAL NATURE OF THE INDUSTRY.

Horticulture requires a stable, productive, and returning workforce which is able to operate within the nuances of the seasonal nature of the industry. Therefore, it is essential that Government consult with industry to implement strategies that adequately address the unique needs of the sector. 

Queensland Fruit & Vegetable Growers advocates for:  

• Implementation of mechanisms that attract more Working Holiday Makers to the horticulture industry, such as a visa extension incentive.  

• Streamline and simplify requirements of the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme, especially for smaller employers. 

• Introduce interventions to reduce absconding and disengagement by workers from the PALM scheme. 

• Require clear, measurable productivity gains as a prerequisite for introducing workplace relations reforms, ensuring that any changes to employment law or Modern Awards deliver tangible economic benefits without undermining business sustainability or competitiveness.  

• Reinstate the Australian Agriculture Visa, dedicated to meeting the seasonal harvest, packing and pruning needs of the national horticulture industry. 

• Accelerate the implementation of national labour hire licensing.  

• Invest through training in the development of core skills and human capital, essential if horticulture is to continue to adapt, innovate and improve its productivity.