Darling Downs farms to be used for COVID quarantine as workers flock to region
The State Government is currently supporting applications for on-farm quarantine facility approvals so more than 500 Pacific workers can fill crucial worker shortages on farms in locations like the Lockyer Valley.
Toowoomba
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By the end of May, 160 Pacific workers will have made their home in the Lockyer Valley, thanks to a Government push to support local farmers and end a crippling worker shortage.
The State Government has revealed it is assisting the industry by supporting applications for farm quarantine facilities in time for the workers to start their jobs by the time the winter harvest arrives.
A total of 550 Pacific workers will arrive in Queensland over the next two months, and will fill roles on farms all across Queensland.
Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries, and Rural Communities Minister Mark Furner said the pandemic created a problematic environment for attracting labourers to local farms.
A lack of backpackers and international travellers has stunted the usual influx of farm workers.
Despite some Queenslanders swapping their comfortable office jobs for fruit-picking jobs, the shortages are still rife.
“The thousands of seasonal jobs on offer every season in Queensland have always been filled by a balance of local and overseas workers,” Mr Furner said.
“We are standing shoulder to shoulder with our farmers to help them access the labour they need.”
The State Government said they are working closely with people in the industry to bring more quarantine capacity for workers to take up jobs on Queensland farms.
$1500 grants will also be offered to cater to travel and accommodation costs for the farm work.
Are you a farmer who supports or opposes on-farm quarantine facilities? Email us at toowoomba@news.com.au.
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