Farming body rejects Burke's suggestion farmers exploit backpackers over
The NFF rejected Burke's suggestion that farmers prefer backpackers over the PALM scheme for Pacific workers.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke suggested using the PALM scheme to bring workers from Pacific island nations. Burke thought this was better than relying on backpackers, especially after recent visa changes.
When Burke was employment minister, he had strengthened worker protections under PALM. The NFF's horticulture council disagreed with this suggestion.
They rejected Burke's implication that some employers had moved away from PALM to avoid worker protections. The NFF said the scheme costs much more because employers must arrange accommodation, transport and extra support.
For short-term harvest work, PALM is not a practical substitute for backpackers. The NFF warned that without enough workers during key harvest periods, food prices could rise.
- 9 Pacific island countries and Timor-Leste
- PALM source countries
- Richard Shannon
- NFF Horticulture Council leader
Why it mattersAustralia's ability to feed itself cheaply depends partly on how easily farmers can hire workers. This policy clash could affect grocery prices.
AustraliaIf visa changes leave farms short-staffed during harvest, Australian families could face higher prices for fresh produce on supermarket shelves.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 5 d ago
