Recently announced migration reforms, including changes to skilled migration and the Working Holiday Maker (WHM) program, are creating uncertainty and concerns across Australia’s primary industries sector.
Of particular relevance to the seafood industry, the Government has confirmed that aquaculture and fishing will be included as priority sectors for processing under an updated Ministerial Direction 119.
The Government has also announced changes to the Working Holiday Maker Program, including the introduction of a ballot system for years two and three where there will be a regional work requirement, alongside measures intended to stabilise WHM application processing times.
These changes may have implications for seafood businesses that rely on Working Holiday Makers and other temporary workers, including members who use backpackers to assist with seasonal work such as unloading boats.
Seafood Industry Australia is seeking to understand the practical implications of these changes for our industry and will continue to engage with Federal Government as further detail becomes available.
You can read the Minister’s media release here.
If you have questions or concerns about how these changes may affect your business, please get in touch with Seafood industry Australia, which is the lead seafood agency for this issue.