Citrus Australia relieved NSW harvest can resume 

Citrus Australia relieved NSW harvest can resume 

31 July 2020 

Citrus Australia is relieved the citrus harvest in NSW can resume following the NSW Government’s decision to overturn its ban on seasonal workers overnight.

CEO Nathan Hancock has urged the Government to consult with relevant communities and industries before making such drastic changes in future.

As of Thursday night, seasonal workers who reside in the defined New South Wales and Victoria border zone, which includes towns such as Mildura, will be able to cross the border daily to undertake farm work in NSW by accessing a border zone resident permit.

In order to access the permit, seasonal workers will be required to declare they have not travelled in Victoria, outside the border zone, in the last 14 days.

They will also be required to produce evidence of their place of residence and place of work.

CEO Nathan Hancock said the initial decision to close the border with no warning or consultation should have been avoided.

“The decision made little sense, and although a logical conclusion was finally reached, growers and workers were left in limbo for 10 days.

“The conclusion was reached through significant work by many parties and could have been reached earlier if not for delays caused by NSW Health.”

Mr Hancock said growers working around the clock will minimize damage caused by the worker restrictions. Support from packers will ensure quality fruit will be delivered to domestic and export markets.

“We are pleased for our growers, who work tirelessly every year to produce world class citrus, and the seasonal workers that are essential to harvest every year,” Mr Hancock said.

“Our priority from the onset of the pandemic has always been to help our growers prepare the safest working environment possible.

“They worked hard to do this and we’re glad that their harvest can resume safely.

“Citrus Australia is appreciative of the work of NSW Agriculture Minister Adam Marshall and the NSW Department of Primary Industries staff, and for the support of Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack and Federal Agriculture Minister David Littleproud, Federal Member for Mallee Anne Webster and the Independent Member for Mildura, Ali Cupper.”

For further information, contact Stephen Cooke, Industry Engagement Manager, Citrus Australia, on 0427 124 437 or stephen.cooke@citrusaustralia.com.au