Jobs for the picking across Queensland

Published Thursday, 17 September, 2020 at 10:28 AM

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries
The Honourable Mark Furner

A range of seasonal agriculture jobs are up for the picking across Queensland, with working-holiday makers and Queenslanders seeking employment encouraged to work and explore their way around the state. 

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Mark Furner said the new #pickqld campaign was aimed at attracting and retaining seasonal workers across Queensland’s agriculture sector. 

“The Palaszczuk Government has been working closely with the agriculture industry during COVID-19 and we’re aware of a predicted labour shortage for the 2020-21 season,” Mr Furner said.

“In the horticulture sector alone, modelling shows a significant labour shortage of 6000 to 7000 workers. 

“From March to August 2020 there was a 46 per cent decline in working-holiday makers in Australia. 

“To address this, we have launched #pickqld to attract working-holiday makers, Queenslanders looking for employment, and university students on study breaks.”

Mr Furner said Queensland’s economic recovery plan recognised the important role the agriculture sector.

“Our strong health response means that Queensland is more open than other states, so we’ve been able to get underway delivering this plan.

“The Palaszczuk Government is fostering strong partnerships with industry to support the economic prosperity of our regions, including in the priority sector of Agriculture and Food.”

Mr Furner said Queensland has a wide range of seasonal opportunities where workers can enjoy exploring Queensland while funding their adventure.

“From the cooler climes of the Granite Belt, through the wide plains on the Darling Downs and the Central Highlands, up north to the tropical Whitsundays, Cassowary Coast, Atherton Tablelands, Cape York and out to western Queensland working on a cattle or sheep station – Queensland has it all,” Mr Furner said. 

“There are so many natural attractions across Queensland so workers can choose where they would like to go and explore.

“Workers can also be assured that agribusinesses employing seasonal workers have COVID-19 workplace health management plans in place to ensure everybody’s safety. 

“It’s critical that our agribusinesses can still access the workforce they need to secure food supply and lead the state’s economic recovery.”

To see what work is available when, and in what regions, visit qld.gov.au/pickqld or call 13 25 23.

ENDS

Media contact:           Ron Goodman            0427 781 920