Australia wheat harvest threatened by immigration policy

The National Farmers' Federation (NFF) has warned that Australia's tightening immigration policies threaten the national agricultural sector and risk the upcoming wheat harvest due to labor shortages.

Labor shortages are expected as the Labor government implements new measures to reduce annual migration, including a lottery system that limits the extension of second and third-year stays for backpacker visa holders. Additionally, visa processing times have increased from days to approximately three months. NFF President Hamish McIntyre stated that farmers require visa approvals within days, noting that a three-month delay can mean the difference between harvesting crops or losing them entirely.

One in seven agricultural jobs in Australia is held by backpacker visa holders, a proportion that rises significantly during harvest seasons. Opposition MP Susan McDonald warned that these restrictions could lead to crops rotting in fields and potential food price increases. Bran Black, Chief Executive of the Business Council of Australia, noted that labor shortages are currently affecting nearly one in three jobs across various sectors, including construction and healthcare.