Federal Member for Farrer David Farley has welcomed a negotiation between the federal government and the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) for prioritising working holiday visas for harvest.

Mr Farley has criticised the federal government, noting the issue arose because of Labor’s lack of understanding of how critical migrant workers are to agribusinesses across the country.

Mr Farley praised the NFF for advocating for a temporary workaround for backpacker visa delays, noting the issue highlights the Labor government is out of touch with regional and rural Australians.

“Of course this was going to happen,” Mr Farley said.

“Fortunately, the NFF has stepped in to create a temporary fix.

“One Nation’s immigration policy, which puts no limit on PALM workers, essential workers, and backpackers, has been out for some time now.

“Labor delayed releasing its policy and now that it has, its poor prioritisation is causing stress and frustration for ag communities.

“It proves that minister Tony Burke is challenged with his brief and doesn’t fully understand the farming sector and Mother Nature’s presence and influence.”

Mr Farley echoed the sentiments of NFF CEO Michael Guerin who noted while the negotiation may provide some short-term relief, it is not a long-term solution.

He is encouraging those who rely on backpackers to contact NSW Farmers Association for details around the new arrangements.

To help address urgent cases, the NFF has secured a process with the Department of Home Affairs for identifying workers whose visa applications may be considered for priority processing.

This process is intended for genuine, urgent cases where:

• the worker has already applied for a WHM visa;

• they have been identified for agricultural work on a specific farm; and

• their timely arrival is critical to business operations.

More information can be found at https://tinyurl.com/4w7rwe7