Emergency Visa Process No Substitute For Lasting Workforce Reform
The National Farmers’ Federation has welcomed emergency help for urgent farm worker visa applications. It warns the arrangement cannot replace long-term reform of regional workforce and migration settings. NFF President Hamish McIntyre said the referrals help some farms facing urgent shortages, but a lasting solution is needed. The federation said regional tourism, hospitality and small businesses also rely on Working Holiday Makers. It wants regular visa processing restored, an improved Pacific labour scheme and a dedicated agricultural visa.