Backpackers flock to the Hills following changes to Australia’s working visa
A growing number of overseas backpackers are heading for the Hills to assist with fire recovery following important changes to Australia’s working visa.
Adelaide Hills
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A Lobethal grower who inspired changes to Australia’s working visa says backpackers have been the backbone of helping repair his bushfire-ravaged property.
Charles Rosback, of Bowyer Ridge Vineyard, was visited by Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Simon Birmingham following the devastating Cudlee Creek fires, prompting changes to working visa subclasses.
Backpackers who have assisted with recovery efforts since December 20 can now extend maximum working arrangements from six to 12 months at any particular property. They are also able to have their volunteer work reclassified as “specified work”, necessary to apply for a second or third year 417 or 462 visa.
Mr Rosback, who lost $450,000 worth of grapes and vines during the fires, said the changes had helped attract seven overseas volunteers since December 20. “What is interesting is that our business, which is vineyard management, uses backpackers every year to help with harvesting work,” he said.
“But this year, because of the way they have come to us in a voluntary manner, the people we’re attracting are very different. They don’t come here to make money, they come here to get life experience and it’s created a real family environment.
“I really couldn’t imagine where I would be without the assistance of backpackers to help us through all of this.”
Diann van der Lann from the Netherlands has been working on the property for the past six weeks.
“My main focus has been working on one of the big (vine) blocks, helping replace wires and irrigation. But really I’ve been doing a bit of everything,” she said.
“It’s been really eye-opening as I’ve been here for almost all of it (post fire recovery).”
Mr Birmingham, who returned to the property for a follow-up visit yesterday, said he was pleased to see visa changes providing a much needed boost to fire-affected communities.
