July 2021
As discussed in our previous post, under the proposed terms of the Australia – UK Free Trade Agreement, UK nationals will no longer be required to undertake regional farm work in conjunction with their Working Holidays (subclass 417) visas.
However at least in part, Australia’s agricultural industry relies upon labour provided by UK working holiday makers and as such, the removal of this requirement has the potential to leave the industry with even greater labour shortages.
As such, the Australian Government has announced plans to create a new Agricultural visa for nationals of ASEAN countries (Brunei, Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Cambodia, Singapore and Vietnam).
It is anticipated that this new visa will be introduced by the end of September 2021, and will be granted for up to three years, with visa holders allowed to work for periods of six to nine months each year on Australian farms. It is reportedly expected that visa holders will spend at least three months each year outside of Australia.
More to come when further information about the new Agricultural visa becomes available.
To speak with an experienced, specialist immigration lawyer regarding your Australian visa application or options, please contact us on +61 3 9329 8744 or by email at info@erskinerodan.com.au
