$6000 cash incentive for Aussies to take up farm work

There’s a huge cash incentive to fill thousands of vacant positions as farmers struggle to find workers to pick fruit and veggies in the peak harvest season.

Aussies can access up to $6000 in cash if they head bush for farm work.

The cash stimulus is part of a new government incentive for Australians to fill farm worker shortages, which include the potential for young Australians to fast-track their access to Youth Allowance.

With the peak harvest and picking season underway, farmers are struggling to find people to get their fruit and vegetables off the vine and their grain in the silo.

Farmers are calling out for workers for the summer harvesting season. Picture: Lyndon Mechielsen

The horticulture sector alone is forecast to have a worker deficit of 26,000 come March.

National Farmers’ Federation chief executive Tony Mahar said there had never been a better time for Australians to explore the regions.

“There are currently thousands of positions vacant on farms across the country, including picking mangoes in the Northern Territory, harvesting wheat in the WA Wheatbelt and picking cherries in Young,” he said.

“From pickers and pruners to plant operators, there is something to suit a wide variety of job seeker.

There are a wide variety of jobs including fruit pickers and pruners. Picture: Aaron Francis/The Australian

“Farmers require people who are reliable, enthusiastic and energetic – if you tick these boxes, you’ll very likely have what it takes to be a valued member of a farm’s workforce,” he said.

The government incentives were announced in this year’s Federal Budget. Up to $6000 is available to cover relocation including accommodation and travel costs for Australians and $2000 for migrant workers.

The government is handing out up to $6000 for relocation costs. Picture: Luis Enrique Ascui/The Australian

Temporary changes to Youth Allowance and ABSTUDY requirements also significantly lower the eligibility threshold for young people engaged in farm work.

Mr Mahar said the short-term seasonal work on offer was perfect for school leavers and university students looking for a summer adventure, that paid.

“The NFF encourages young Australians who have had their overseas holiday plans dashed, to consider seeing more of their own backyard, while at the same time contributing to the noble task of sustaining Australians,” he added.

Originally published as $6000 cash incentive for Aussies to take up farm work