Streamlined accommodation plan to boost workforce

The Victorian Government has amended the Victoria Planning Provisions to exempt farms from requiring a planning permit for on-farm accommodation for up to 10 people.

Jeremy Griffith, APAL Head of Government Relations and Advocacy, said this exemption will streamline the provision of on-farm accommodation and address one of the key barriers in attracting domestic harvest labour.

“This amendment shows the government is aware of the challenges faced by the horticulture industry, particularly for the harvest season ahead,” Jeremy said. “The effects of Covid-19 and changes to the rural work requirements for working holiday visas have permanently changed the agricultural labour force.

“We know that Australian residents are less likely than backpackers to make provision for their own accommodation and transport for seasonal, casual farm work, especially during harvest seasons.”

The exemption applies to on-farm accommodation on a property of at least 40 hectares located within the Farming Zone, and must meet electricity, water and wastewater treatment requirements.

“We are pleased to see that this amendment still upholds the standards required of all on-farm accommodation, supporting the welfare of farm workers,” Jeremy said. “While the amendment is a welcome short-term solution to an immediate labour need, this will also ensure that the industry’s adaptation to a new labour system is sustainable into the future.”

The Government has committed to an $84 million package to support Victoria’s agriculture industry in meeting workforce challenges, including:

• $6 million made available via the Seasonal Workforce Accommodation Program to fund COVIDSafe accommodation, transport and pastoral care in growing regions.
• $5.2 million provided in grants through the Agriculture Workforce Plan for new and upgraded accommodation.